Liverpool go third with victory at Charlton

LONDON, Dec 16 (Reuters) An early penalty from Xabi Alonso and late goals by Craig Bellamy and Steven Gerrard gave Liverpool an easy 3-0 win at Charlton Athletic and third place in the Premier League today.

Charlton were in trouble after just two minutes when their former Liverpool defender Djimi Traore swung his boot into the face of Jermaine Pennant as he tried to intercept Mark Gonzalez's lofted cross from the left wing.

Referee Howard Webb pointed to the spot and Spanish midfielder Alonso converted to put Liverpool in front against a side battling relegation.

Liverpool soon came close to adding more before goals from Bellamy and captain Gerrard in the last 10 minutes rounded off a convincing performance by Rafael Benitez's men.

Liverpool moved on to 31 points, but could be caught later on Saturday by either Arsenal (29) or Portsmouth (28), who meet at the Emirates Stadium.

Manchester United are top on 44 points, followed by champions Chelsea on 39, while Charlton stay second from bottom on 12.

REUTERS DH BD2048