Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren was thrilled after his side broke the unbeaten Premier League record of the current leaders.
"I thought my players deserved to be heroes after the way they performed," said McClaren after the game.
"Overall, I thought it was ten out of ten in every department. We played some good football, created more chances, and had a bit of luck that deserted us against Newcastle earlier in the week.
"With that type of football there'd be more sell-out crowds at the Riverside Stadium this season." McClaren declined to forecast the title winners. "There'll be many twists and turns in the title race. Chelsea are creeping up," he added.
Liverpool disappointed as an attacking force. Michael Owen was alone up front and Middlesbrough deserved their first win in four games.
Despite having more possession Boro lacked a cutting edge.
A fatal mistake by Liverpool goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek led to the crucial goal eight minutes from time.
Dudek dropped the ball and Gareth Southgate took full advantage.
The Liverpool players were unhappy with the goal but manager Gerard Houllier had no complaints.
"The referee was right over the goal," he said. "It wasn't a foul.
"Two defeats in 30 games isn't all that bad. It was a very physical game with a lot of challenges and commitment. Maybe a draw would have been a fair result.
"Defeats are understandable but not acceptable by our standards. We have to bounce back quickly.
"If there are two defeats in the next 30 games I'll settle for that.".
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