Liverpool returned to winning ways in the Premier League thanks to goals by Raheem Sterling and Joe Allen. Yes - Joe Allen.
Anfield fell silent prior to kick off as a minutes silence was held - this game being the closest to the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster - 26 years ago on Wednesday.
The reds took the lead in the 9th minute in a improved display albeit against a poor Newcastle United side.
Daniel Sturridge was ruled out of the clash after picking up a knock in the FA Cup win over Blackburn Rovers last Wednesday. With Sakho also out injured (for a month) Emre Can made his return from suspension and Jordon Ibe returned from his recent injury.
While Coutinho was providing the tricks it was Sterling who fired the reds ahead - he weaved into the box before unleashing a curler that had the beating of Tim Krul.
The reds had plenty more chances in the first half to increase their lead and last season they probably would have had this game tied up by half time.
As it was the reds were possibly fortunate to end the half in front. Troubled defender Dejan Lovren committed a wild challenge in the penalty area that was waved away by referee Lee Mason.
Second half and Liverpool remained in the ascendancy. Jordon Ibe was brought off after the hour having completed an important return to the reds squad.
Sterling had two further glorious chances in the second half - putting the ball wide when he had a one on one 6 yards out and firing over late on from a similar distance.
Fortunately the reds didn't need to rely on him. Joe Allen added the reds second goal in the 70th minute - a case of being in the right place at the right time - but he took his goal well from well inside the area.
Late on Moussa Sissoko was sent off for Newcastle effectively ending any hopes they had to get back into this game.
Liverpool move back into 5th, 4 points behind Man City - although with a significantly weaker goal difference.
6 Premier League games left - although the reds most pressing concern is now a weekend trip to Wembley to try to beat Aston Villa in the FA Cup Semi Final.
