CARDIFF failed to make up ground on Albion after a 2-0 home loss to title chasers Liverpool.

Gini Wijnaldum fired in on the half-volley after 56 minutes to ease the nerves of Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

Sean Morrison missed a glorious chance to level for City after goalkeeper Alisson flapped at a 64th-minute corner.

Liverpool put the game out of sight in the 81st-minute when James Milner converted from the penalty spot after a foul on Mo Salah by Morrison.

The loss leaves Cardiff, who occupy the last relegation place, three points adrift of safety behind the Seagulls, who picked up a precious point in a goalless draw at Wolves on Saturday.

Albion also have a far better goal difference (-21) compared to Neil Warnock's side (-35).

Victory took Liverpool back to the top of the table ahead of Manchester City by two points.

Cardiff were unchanged from the side which won 2-0 at Albion in midweek to boost their survival hopes, with midfielder Aron Gunnarsson declared fit after a back spasm.

Liverpool made three changes. Skipper Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita and Roberto Firmino returned as Fabinho, Milner and Divock Origi dropped out after the 4-1 midweek Champions League victory at Porto.

Junior Hoilett and Oumar Niasse went closest for Cardiff and Firmino curled the ball over the bar from inside the area after being played through the home defence by Sadio Mane in a goalless first half.