LIVERPOOL topped the Premier League table on Day One of the new season, after their early kickoff at 1245 GMT thanks to a Daniel Sturridge first half goal against an unlucky Stoke City at Anfield.

The victory which was the first opening-day home victory for the Merseyside club since 2001 gave Liverpool’s weary fans the heady euphoria of sitting at the top of the Premiership table. They will do well to milk the occasion for all its worth as the single goal victory might not be enough to keep them there by the time the full weekend fixtures are played.

Missing from the starting line-up was Uruguayan Luis Suarez who watched the game from the stands with his family, conveniently serving the remainder of his six match ban carried over from last season.

Stoke was unlucky not to have shared the spoils as they spurned a penalty chance when Daniel Agger handled in the penalty area close to the end of match. Saviour for Liverpool was keeper Mignolet who denied Stoke’s unlucky penalty taker Jonathan Walters.

Over at the other end, Stoke keeper Asmir Begovic excelled to keep the score down, on several occasions denying the lively Sturridge.

The other match of note on opening day is Swansea versus Man United which will be played at 17:30GMT.