Liverpool beats Portsmouth 4-1 in Premier League

The Associated Press , London | Tue, 03/16/2010 6:38 AM

Fernando Torres scored twice in Liverpool's 4-1 win over Portsmouth in the Premier League on Monday to keep the team's hopes alive of qualifying for the Champions League.

The Spain striker scored in the 26th and 77th minutes at Anfield either side of goals from Ryan Babel in the 28th and Alberto Aquilani's first for the club, in the 32nd.

Nadir Belhadj pulled a consolation goal back for Portsmouth in the 88th minute.

Liverpool improved to 51 points, one behind fourth-place ottenham in the last Champions League position but Spurs have played a match less. Manchester City has 50 points and has played two less games than Liverpool.

Portsmouth remains last with 19 points and is almost certain to be relegated.