Both teams rattled shots against the goal posts as the game reached the half-way stage at 1-1. Isobel Howe converted a penalty to edge Manchester ahead in the third period but Liverpool quickly countered through Sophie Gilbert, who scored from a length-of-the-pitch solo breakaway, and Grace Rowland.
Liverpool went to 4-2 in the final period with a goal from Kathryn Fowler; Manchester replied through Stephanie Whittaker but were unable to take advantage of two Liverpool exclusions in the final stages.
In women's Championship 1, Cara Saunders scored five in Hucknall's 18-4 victory over Penguin Emperors. Caledonia hammered Tyldesley 15-6, including four goals from Sue Johnstone.
Photo (Trevor Hyde): Manchester's Emma Bartlett gets a shot away in the face of strong defence from Liverpool.