Stoke City have turned around an early Steven Gerrard penalty to go ahead at the break with goals from Jonathan Walters and Kenwyne Jones.
Liverpool were ahead in the first minute after Luis Suarez was brought down by Ryan Shawcross and Steven Gerrard sent Asmir Begovic the wrong way from the spot.
However, the lead lasted just three minutes and Stoke were level, Walters slotting in after a costly slip from Martin Skrtel in the box.
In the 11th minute Stoke had turned around Liverpool's early advantage as Jones rose highest at the near post to nod in a corner.
After 27 minutes Gerrard had a real chance to level matters, but toe-poked an effort from the edge of the box after Stewart Downing's cutback.
Liverpool had the best of the final 15 minutes but Stoke's defence remained solid until the whistle.