Controversy as Bolton beat Liverpool 2-0

LONDON, Sep 30 (Reuters) A controversial strike by midfielder Gary Speed set Bolton Wanderers on their way to a 2-0 Premier League victory over Liverpool at the Reebok today.

With nearly half an hour gone, Liverpool keeper Jose Reina was judged by a linesman to have carried the ball outside his area before clearing upfield. Spaniard Ivan Campo teed up the resulting free kick for Speed to lash home.

However, television replays clearly suggested that Reina was inside his area before throwing the ball up into the air and making contact inside the 'D'.

There was little doubt about Bolton's second, though, when Campo met a Kevin Davies cross from the right, sending the ball onto the bar and over the line in the 51st minute.

The day's action was continuing with champions and league leaders Chelsea hosting Martin O'Neill's Aston Villa and a London derby between Charlton Athletic and Arsenal.

Reuters DH VV1950