Reds close in on fourth

Last updated : 14 April 2008 By Al Campbell
The Reds' 3-1 win over Blackburn yesterday combined with Everton's 1-1 draw at Birmingham on Saturday means Liverpool have opened up a five point gap over the Bitters. With Everton still to play Chelsea and Arsenal Rafa Benitez believes his side are very close to confirming fourth place.

"We must be pleased because we knew it was a difficult game against a good team. We played well in the second half, especially Benayoun and after that Gerrard and Torres," said the Spaniard.

"We scored good goals so we must be pleased, particularly after the game against Arsenal when we worked really hard, played well and everyone was saying how good we were. It's not easy to keep the players ready for the next game, so that is the most positive thing.

"We now need to go to Fulham to try to win. If we win we'll be nearly there. The Champions League is always a distraction, so it's important we get qualification sorted as quickly as possible.

"We cannot say what will happen with Everton, but we are five points clear and that is important."