It was slim pickings in the Premier League this weekend due to the FA Cup quarter-finals, but there was no shortage of stellar performances across the six matches played.

Queens Park Rangers spiced up the relegation battle with an important 3-1 victory over Sunderland, while Aston Villa increased their chances of survival thanks to a 2-1 win at fellow strugglers Reading.

Newcastle United all but secured their safety for next season courtesy of a late 2-1 triumph over Stoke City and Liverpool kept their slim hopes of Champions League football alive with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Elsewhere, West Bromwich Albion came from behind to see off Swansea City 2-1 and Southampton held on the claim a goalless draw at Norwich City.

Having digested all of the action, Sports Mole picks out the 11 players who left their mark.

Artur Boruc (Southampton)
The Poland international's last-minute penalty save to earn his side a point at Norwich City could prove invaluable at the end of the season.

Jan Vertonghen (Spurs)
The superb Belgian's two goals at Liverpool looked to have got Tottenham the win before they pressed the self-destruct button.
Clint Hill (QPR)
Christopher Samba might take an equal share of the plaudits, but Hill was rock solid at the back as QPR picked up only their fourth victory of the season against Sunderland.
Gareth McAuley (West Brom)
McAuley was instrumental in his side's winner against Swansea - just rewards for a robust and efficient showing in defence.

Gareth Bale (Spurs)
It wasn't a vintage performance from Bale during Tottenham's defeat at Liverpool, but he gave the Reds a fright on more than one occasion with his darting runs.
Andros Townsend (QPR)
Townsend was a model of energy in the QPR midfield as they beat Sunderland and he was rewarded for his efforts with a quite remarkable volley.
Yohan Cabaye (Newcastle)
The Magpies were inspired by the Frenchman and his majestic free kick to turn things around against Stoke City and claim a 2-1 win.
Moussa Dembele (Spurs)
The wily midfielder was a vital presence at both ends of the pitch for Spurs as they fell short at Liverpool.
Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle)
Sissoko looks to be relishing life on Tyneside as his often-electric display against Stoke City showed.

Luis Suarez (Liverpool)
The man is simply one of the best strikers playing in Europe right now. Another goal on the weekend in Liverpool's win over Tottenham took his tally to 28 in all competitions for the season.
Loic Remy (QPR)
Despite a reputation based on a love of money, the Frenchman worked his socks off during QPR's vital victory against Sunderland.