Manchester United have surged into second place in the English Premier League with a 3-0 demolition of Newcastle at St James' Park.
Sir Alex Ferguson's team closed the gap on leaders Chelsea to four points thanks to first-half goals from Jonny Evans and Patrice Evra before Tom Cleverley struck with a superb strike after the break.
United, who are above third placed Manchester City on goal difference, have lost twice already in the league this season and, with Chelsea winning Sunday, they could ill-afford another setback at St James' Park, where they were beaten 3-0 last season.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers suffered another Anfield nightmare as his strugglers were held to a scoreless draw by Stoke.
At White Hart Lane, Tottenham secured their third successive league win, goals from Steven Caulker and Aaron Lennon giving the hosts a 2-0 success against struggling Aston Villa.
Southampton defender Jose Fonte headed a late equaliser in a dramatic finish at St Mary's, his second goal salvaging a 2-2 draw against Fulham.
