Liverpool too strong for Rovers

The in-form Steven Gerrard opened the scoring on the hour mark with a clinical finish from close range.

The Reds skipper then turned provider eight minutes from time, sending a pin-point cross for Fernando Torres, who headed in his 22nd league goal.

Substitutes John Arne Riise and Andrei Voronin combined well in injury time before the latter hit an empty net with a sliding finish for the third.

However, Roque Santa Cruz netted a consolation goal for Rovers less than a minute later, with a wonderful volley from 12 yards.

Liverpool cemented their position in fourth place with 66 points, while Rovers remained ninth with 51.