Liverpool thrash Newcastle

London - Liverpool moved back to within three points of Premier League leaders Manchester United after beating relegation-threatened Newcastle 3-0 at Anfield on Sunday.

Two goals in six minutes from Yossi Benayoun and Dirk Kuyt sent second-placed Liverpool, who have played one game more than United, on the way to victory against a Newcastle side who had Joey Barton sent-off 13 minutes from time for a wild challenge on Xabi Alonso.

Brazil midfielder Lucas added a third goal, his first in the Premier League, three minutes from time.

Defeat left Newcastle three points adrift of safety with just three games remaining in which to secure their Premier League status, starting with the north-east derby against fellow drop candidates Middlesbrough a week on Monday.