Liverpool conceded two late goals to succumb 2-0 at home against West Bromwich Albion with a Steven Gerrard penalty miss seemingly the turning point as the Reds extended their winless run.
Peter Odemwingie's strike 15 minutes from time, firmly against the run of play, gave West Bromwich Albion their first win at Anfield since 1967 and provided Roy Hodgson with a happy trip to his old club.
Manchester City midfielder James Milner has admitted it will be difficult to clinch the club's first title since 1968, but has said the Blues will target maximum points for the remainder of the season.
Newcastle United opened up an eight-point gap over Liverpool in the Premier League standings with a 3-1 win over West Bromwich, boosting their claim for place in Europe next season.
Stoke City withstood a threatening West Bromwich Albion display, snatching a late 1-0 victory through substitute Ryan Shotton to seal their first win of the campaign.
Birmingham City goalkeeper Ben Foster has completed a loan move to West Bromwich Albion, while keeper Boaz Myhill has moved in the opposite direction to St Andrew's.
