Fowler breaks duck as Liverpool rout Fulham

Robbie Fowler netted his first goal since returning to his hometown club in January as Liverpool finally found their scoring boots in a 5-1 demolition of Fulham in the Premier League yesterday.

Fowler had been out of luck since moving from Man. City but his 16th-minute goal set Liverpool on their way to a comprehensive win that closed the gap on second-placed Man. United to two points.

Liverpool, in third, have 58 points from 30 games, with United, who have played 28, on 60 and leaders Chelsea on 75.

Fowler's close-range finish was only the second goal by Liverpool's four strikers this year. His team-mates took their cue to inflict more misery on a Fulham side yet to win on their travels this season.

Collins John restored parity, but Liverpool were ahead again on 34 minutes through Michael Brown's own goal. Fernando Morientes made it 3-1 20 minutes from time and late goals from Peter Crouch and Stephen Warnock completed the rout.