Liverpool's first half domination of this fixture against Premiership-chasing Bournemouth was enough to ensure there would be no further pressure placed on the Liverpool manager.
Lazar Markovic, Lucas Leiva and Kolo Toure were drafted back in the team, as the reds utilised a formation involving three centre-backs. Markovic and Henderson operated as wing backs - allowing Sterling and Lallana to be utilised in central attacking roles.
Despite a fine chance for Bournemouth in the third minute the reds were good value for their 2-0 half time lead.
In the 20th minute it was Markovic who sent in a lovely ball towards the back post that was met by Jordan Henderson - he headed back across goal for Sterling to get the final header and the opening goal.
The build up to the goal saw the reds string four dozen passes together before Lazar unlocked the defence.
Just over 5 minutes later and the reds were 2-0 up. After working his way towards goal - a Coutinho shot was only cleared to the edge of the area - Markovic was running in and smashed it into the net.
Dejan Lovren was replaced at half time by Mamadou Sakho due to a minor injury.
There were plenty of photographers down on the south coast as Brendan Rodgers took his place on the dug-out but in the 50th minute pressure was lifting further off the managers shoulders.
Raheem Sterling showed all the calm composure he lacked at Old Trafford when he twisted and turned the defence before beating the keeper with a shot into the far corner. 3-0 to the reds.
Dan Gosling grabbed one back for Bournemouth to increase nerves, and followed up minutes later by curling a shot on to the post.
Fortunately Liverpool regained a grip on the game and the final 15 minutes were without much further discomfort. In fact Sterling should have had a hat-trick, a fine move that saw Gerrard back-flick the ball landed at his feet and he fluffed the chance wide.
Brendan Rodgers will be hoping his side can build on this result when Arsenal visit at the weekend. The reds need to ensure this isn't yet another false dawn.
