Liverpool beat Villa to stay on Everton's heels

Christian Benteke put Villa ahead with a crisp strike in the first half but Jordan Henderson equalised early in the second period before Steven Gerrard claimed Liverpool's winner from the penalty spot.

Jordan Henderson celebrates after scoring Liverpool's first goal against Aston Villa at Villa Park yesterday. Pic/Getty Images

Defeat left Villa third from bottom in the English top flight, but although they only trail fourth-bottom Wigan Athletic on goal difference, Roberto Martinez's side have a game in hand.

Villa had been bidding for a third successive win, but instead their momentum deserted them ahead of a run of games that includes daunting trips to Stoke City and leaders Manchester United.

Liverpool, meanwhile, closed to within five points of the European places, although the three teams immediately above them - Chelsea, Arsenal and Everton - all have a game in hand.

"Our character was outstanding today," Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said after the match.