John Richardson

While his first goal was largely selfmade, his second – which resulted in the flattering 4-1 scoreline – came courtesy of Salah’s clever pass.

The Egyptian also created the space for substitute Xherdan Shaqiri to end any hopes of a Cardiff revival sparked by Callum Paterson’s close-range finish.

Salah had opened the scoring after just nine minutes, pouncing after Mane’s low shot was blocked – although he had instigated the danger with a clever backheel for Trent Alexander-arnold to fizz in a dangerous cross.

Chased by his team-mates, he did offer a half smile rather than a grimace – the reaction to his previous three goals.

You imagine his manager would not

BIG MATCH VERDICT care if Salah burst into tears, as long as he continues to provide the magic and the most important commodity of all – goals. The home fans have certainly been treated to a glut of them – a staggering 33 in just 35 home games.

No wonder it was Salah’s name which was serenaded by The Kop in the dying minutes of what was largely a subdued team performance. But league titles aren’t always spiced with swashbuckling football.

A number of Liverpool old boys who have championship winners’ medals on their sideboards and who were watching from the stands yesterday will testify that not all opponents are swept aside with consummate ease. At times, the dinner suits have to make way for the boiler suits. The glamour can wait – it’s often all about grinding out results.

For Cardiff it was back down to earth with a bump following their 4-2 victory against Fulham.

While they never appeared capable of evoking memories of 1959 – the last time the Bluebirds reigned supreme here in Bill Shankly’s third game in charge – they left pointless but with their pride intact.

Very few gave Neil Warnock and his side any chance of surviving in the Premier League before a ball had been