Fernando Torres scored his 32nd goal of the season as Liverpool secured a thoroughly deserved 1-0 win against Manchester City at Anfield.

In what was ultimately a match without consequence for either side, City were hopelessly bereft of attacking ambition and created little of note all afternoon. Sven-Goran Erikkson's team did little to further the cause of their manager.

Liverpool dominated the first half and came close to a lead on 20 minutes, when Ryan Babel's header from Dirk Kuyt's right-wing cross fizzed over the bar.

Kuyt and Torres were in fine form, buzzing with intent and running tirelessly to open space for their team-mates at every opportunity.

The home side's best chance of the opening period came just after the half-hour mark. Steven Gerrard cut in from the left and sent a wicked curling shot towards the far corner, only for Joe Hart to throw himself horizontal and produce a stunning fingertips save.

Somehow City went into the break level, but Liverpool's inevitable goal was not long coming. On 56 minutes, Torres burned past Richard Dunne and sent a low shot through Hart and in.

The goal signalled a period of dominance which should have ended the match as a contest. Hart saved well from Kuyt's crashing volley, and then Ryan Babel missed from five yards after Torres once again left Dunne for dead on the right.

Liverpool were creating chances left, right and centre, but lacked a clinical edge. As a result, City remained in contention and could have stolen a point with a greater degree of invention.

Aside from Elano's 25-yard free-kick early in the second half, which hit the post, City failed to fashion a single decent opening and allowed Liverpool to cruise home.

Rafa Benitez's side were far from joyous upon the final whistle. Still smarting from their Champions League defeat against Chelsea they set about the business of thanking supporters at Anfield for their loyal support with a noticeable lack of enthusiasm.

Will Tidey / Eurosport