Fergie: we'll still win title

Sir Alex Ferguson insisted last night that Manchester United will not be knocked off course by their heaviest home defeat for 17 years. Liverpool's 4-1 win at Old Trafford over their most bitter rivals brought them back to within four points of the leaders, who retain a game in hand.

"We made mistakes under pressure," Ferguson said. "But at this club it's a case of 'When you lose, respond', and that's what we'll do." United had taken the lead with Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty, only for a resurgent Liverpool to go on to complete the double over them this season. Nemanja Vidic, sent off in the 2-1 defeat at Anfield in September, suffered the same fate and will miss Saturday's game at Fulham.

"We knew we had to win," said Liverpool's manager, Rafa Benitez. "United have the experience and quality in their squad but we will be more confident now that we can stay closer. I'm really pleased and proud for the fans and the club."