Gerrard rocket powers Liverpool through
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-12-09 09:28

Steven Gerrard has crashed home a stunning half-volley as four-times European champions Liverpool came back to beat Olympiakos Piraeus 3-1 and advance to the Champions League knockout rounds.

Liverpool's Steven Gerrard celebrates his goal against Olympiakos Piraeus in their Champions League Group A soccer match at Anfield in Liverpool, December 8, 2004. Liverpool won the match 3-1. [Reuters]

Wednesday's result, coupled with Monaco's 5-0 win over Deportivo Coruna, put Liverpool into the last 16 and banished Olympiakos to the UEFA Cup.

Liverpool appeared to be heading out of the competition when Brazilian Rivaldo netted with a free kick to fire the Greek side ahead on 27 minutes at Anfield.

The goal meant Liverpool had to score three times to qualify at Olympiakos's expense in Group A.

Substitute Florent Sinama Pongolle, a halftime replacement, gave Liverpool some hope when he converted Harry Kewell's cross from close range at the start of the second half.

Rafa Benitez's side then had a second goal harshly ruled out but substitute Neil Mellor set up a grandstand finale when he lashed in a second goal 10 minutes from time.

Liverpool captain and England midfielder Gerrard then raised the roof on 86 minutes when he latched on to a cross from the left to thump home from 25 metres.

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