Liverpool's revival in form continued with a clinical performance in their 3-0 victory over Newcastle United on Saturday as they remained within striking distance of Everton in the race for the fourth Champions League position.

Liverpool scored three goals in space of eight minutes on either side of half time as Newcastle's defensive woes continued, pushing the club closer to a relegation battle with just over 10 matches remaining in the season.

Jermaine Pennant put Liverpool ahead in the 43rd minute before Fernando Torres continued his brilliant form in front of the goal to double the lead on the stroke of half time. Steve Gerrard completed the rout by scoring the third in the 51st minute.

The score line was a bit harsh on the visitors who displayed a sound defensive performance for most of the first half as Liverpool struggled to create any real chances in spite of dominating the possession. However it was yet another defensive lapse that led to Liverpool taking the lead in the 43rd minute when Jose Enrique failed to clear the ball which struck Pennant's shin before looping over Harper's head and into the goal.

Stephen Gerrard and Torres combined brilliantly two minutes later as the Spanish striker raced forward to meet Gerrard's great through pass before slotting it in past Harper to double the lead. Any hopes of a Newcastle come back was extinguished six minutes into the second half as Fernando Torres returned the complement for Gerrard to put the result beyond doubt by scoring the third of the night.

With victory assured, Benitez then withdrew Gerrard and Torres with one eye on the Champions League clash against Inter Milan as Liverpool held on to claim all three points from the tie.