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Steven Gerrard scored a hat-trick as Liverpool emphatically beat Aston Villa to close the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester United to one point.

Dirk Kuyt smashed in a shot for the Reds and Albert Riera’s exquisite half-volley put the home side two up.

Gerrard then scored a penalty before passing in a fine free-kick.

Gerrard again converted from the spot for his hat-trick after Villa keeper Brad Friedel was red-carded for a foul on Fernando Torres.

First Half Highlights

4-0 S.Gerrard 50′

5-0 S.Gerrard (Pen) 65′

Second Half Highlights

THIS SEASON’S REVERSE FIXTURE

Aston Villa 0-0 Liverpool

31 August 2008 – Ref: Martin Atkinson

REFEREE

Martin Atkinson (Yorkshire)