MANCHESTER, England (AP):

Liverpool and Arsenal capitalised on a rare slip-up by Premier League leaders Chelsea by claiming away wins at their fiercest rivals yesterday to close up an intriguing four-team race for the title.

Liverpool humiliated soon-to-be-deposed champions Manchester United in a 3-0 victory at Old Trafford, with Steven Gerrard converting two penalties and Luis Suarez also scoring in a one-sided match that highlighted the gulf that has emerged between the two foes.

"It's a nightmare," said United striker Wayne Rooney. "It's one of the worst days I've ever had in football."

Tomas Rosicky's superb goal after 72 seconds sealed Arsenal's battling 1-0 win at Tottenham, a result that also likely knocked Spurs out of contention for a top-four finish.

The gap between Chelsea, who lost 1-0 at Aston Villa on Saturday, and fourth-place Manchester City is now six points, and all three teams chasing the leaders have games in hand over Jose Mourinho's side.

It is shaping up to be the most exciting conclusion ever to a Premier League title race.

For once, it won't include United.