No penalties conceded, the first clean sheet duly arrives - and up front Liverpool find the net twice to get a second set of three points and make it seven out of nine from their first three games.

Sunderland away from home is not the most glamorous of fixtures, and it is puzzling how such a fixture was given the importance of being played at lunchtime. On second thoughts, though, such early kick-offs are becoming the norm rather than the exception for Liverpool as the Reds are yet to have a 3pm start. Still, as long as Liverpool continue winning, such unconventional times are unimportant.

Facing a team managed by Roy Keane is never a stroll in the park but as expected Liverpool always had the upper hand and imposed themselves on the Black Cats. Momo Sissoko had a positive pre-season but he  gave a Man of the Match display in his first start, which was particularly welcome in Steven Gerrard's absence. He won every ball and even had the audacity to take on players. His first goal (Liverpool's 7,000th in the Premier League) was well deserved. Rafael Benitez's faith in the player manifested with an extended contract in the summer.

'The second half saw Liverpool regain control and the only worrying aspect was the inability to put the game to bed'

The second half saw Liverpool regain control and the only worrying aspect was the inability to put the game to bed. Sunderland had a couple of attempts, more hopeful than serious. We then had the unusual sight of Jamie Carragher wanting to get off the pitch after an accidental clash with Pepe Reina resulted in a broken rib.

Andriy Voronin wrapped up the match with a well-taken late goal. It was, despite Carragher's injury, a good lunchtime run-out for Liverpool.