Daniel Agger's goal on the stroke of half time has given Liverpool the victory against Southampton at Anfield.

© PA Photos

Southampton struggled to assert themselves in the first half, with Rickie Lambert's wayward 25-yard strike the closest they came to scoring.

Luis Suarez looked a constant threat to the Saints defence and picked out Glen Johnson following a trademark attacking run, but the England full-back's effort squirmed wide of the post.

Paulo Gazzaniga was forced into action twice midway through the first half, denying Johnson before blocking Suarez's low effort with a good save.

However, Southampton's resistance was broken before the break when Suarez struck the crossbar with his free kick and when the visitors failed to clear the danger, Agger was able to head in Johnson's cross.

The Saints looked an improved side in the second half but Liverpool's defence proved too strong despite the added pressure.

Jose Enrique had a good chance to double his side's lead after exchanging passes with Suarez but the Spaniard dragged his shot wide of the target.

Martin Skrtel went close to adding a second for Liverpool but his header sailed over the crossbar.

However, the hosts were untroubled in the closing stages and comfortably secured the three points.