Liverpool took a big step towards qualifying for the Champions League next season with a comfortable 3-1 win over Bolton Wanderers.

Liverpool took an early lead in the 12th minute when Jussi Jaaskelainen diverted a save into his own net. Ryan Babel then doubled the lead midway through the second half and Fabio Aurelio put the result beyond doubt with a third in the 75th minute. Tamir Cohen pulled one back in the 79th minute but Bolton failed to mount a late come back to suffer their seventh defeat of the season.

Bolton would be disappointed with the result after they started the game strongly and nearly took the lead when Diouf saw his curling free kick miss everyone before smashing against the cross bar. The hosts had another chance to take the lead when Joey O'Brien flicked the ball across the goal but Diouf was unable to connect it properly allowing the Liverpool defense to clear the ball.

The visitors took the lead in the 12th minute in a bizarre fashion when Gerrard's weak shot looked headed wide of the target but Jaaskelainen dived to make sure and the ball bounced off his face before spinning into the goal. It was a much needed boost for Liverpool who slowly assumed control of the match.

The lead was doubled in the 60th minute when Dirk Kuyt smashed his shot against the post and Babel latched on to the rebound before slotting it home at the near post. Aurelio scored the third of the day in the 75th minute, latching on to a poor clearance off the corner to smash into the top corner from outside the area.

Bolton scored a consolation goal four minutes later but Liverpool hung on to their lead and claim vital three points and remain in touch with Everton in the fourth place.