05.03.2005 - Robert goal hits Reds Euro hopes

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A free kick from Laurent Robert provided the only goal of the game, as Liverpool's hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League suffered a major blow.

Robert's goal 19 minutes from time, from a similar position to his strike which settled the same fixture two seasons ago, denied Liverpool the chance to close the gap on 4th placed Everton, who remain 8 points ahead.

Until scoring, Newcastle had not created too many clear cut openings despite dominating possesion, with Liverpool's defence making it difficult for the home side.

But, as in so many other Premiership away games this season, Liverpool rarely looked like scoring themselves, with their best chance of the game falling to Steven Gerrard in stoppage time, but the skipper fired wide of the far post from close range.

With Liverpool's away league form showing few signs of improving, the defeat could signal the end of any hopes of finishing above Everton and claiming 4th place.