Rodolfo Borrell's side went into the clash in Altrincham in high spirits after some great recent performances but their cause wasn't helped by the incident in the 25th minute when the scores were still level.

The Spaniard was shown a straight red card in controversial circumstances after a clash with United midfielder Paul Pogba.

The referee's assistant gave the decision claiming Suso showed his studs in a collision with Pogba. The red card appeared harsh and it certainly gave United the edge.

United fielded a strong side with eight of the starting line-up having featured in the recent Carling Cup quarter-final defeat by Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.

The home side took the lead two minutes after the restart when William Keane fired home after Liverpool failed to clear a corner.

Substitute Jess Lingard made it 2-0 after 56 minutes when Keane's cross from the right was missed by everybody and the unmarked Jesse Lingard slotted home at the back post.

Andre Wisdom then crashed an effort against the underside of the bar as Liverpool tried to get back into the game, but it just wasn't to be their night.

United added a further two goals before the end when Senegal striker Mame Biram Diouf netted twice with two close range finishes.

Borrell's side will now hope to bounce back in their final game of 2011 when they travel to Fulham on Tuesday afternoon.

Liverpool team: Hansen, Flanagan, Wisdom, Sama, Wilson, Coady (Roddan), Suso, Roberts, Eccleston (Silva), Adorjan (Ngoo), Sterling. Unused subs: Belford, Mendy.