Newcastle temporarily silenced the Kop by taking the lead at Anfield when Liverpool's Daniel Agger seemed to get the final touch to Yohan Cabaye's flick from Ryan Taylor's cross.

But former Magpie Craig Bellamy returned to haunt his old club with a well-taken equaliser before half-time, and then the Welshman scored from a free-kick to put his side ahead.

Steven Gerrard made only his second appearance since returning from injury as a second half substitute, and marked an impressive showing with the third goal as United failed to end 2011 on a high. But they still go into the New Year in seventh place in the Barclays Premier League, with 30 points.

Club Photographer Ian Horrocks was at Anfield to bring nufc.co.uk this picture special.