Jose Reina - 7: The �8m summer signing looked assured and commanding on the few occasions he was called upon.

Steve Finnan - 7: Composed and calm on the rare occasions he was called upon and joined the attack when he could.

Sami Hyypia - 7: One of the more quiet European matches the Finnish centreback will have enjoyed.

Jamie Carragher - 7: The club's Player of the Season for last term and he never looked troubled.

Stephen Warnock - 7: Had little to do at the back and a threat going forward.

Darren Potter - 7: Out to impress and he did with some of his delivery and industry on the right of midfield.

Xabi Alonso - 7: A stray pass gave TNS a rare chance but his vision and tough-tackling complement Gerrard.

Steven Gerrard - 9: (STAR MAN) If there were any doubts about his commitment, he erased them with three fine goals and a typically all-action display.

John Arne Riise - 7: Set up the opening goal and a typically attacking and energetic display from the Norwegian on the left of midfield.

Anthony Le Tallec - 6: He has the task of proving his worth to manager Rafael Benitez but, apart from a saved header, was kept too quiet for his liking.

Fernando Morientes - 6: His aerial power will be a weapon for the Reds but he lacked sharpness as he missed chances he would expect to put away.

Substitutes

Boudewijn Zenden (replaced Warnock, 64 minutes) - 6: He lacked sharpness and his crosses could have been better but too early on to judge as he adapts to a new club.