Keane's double keeps Liverpool at top of the league

LIVERPOOL, England — Robbie Keane ensured Liverpool stayed on top of the English Premier League with two goals in a 3-0 victory over Bolton on Friday that ended a frustrating run of three draws at Anfield.

Albert Riera scored the opening goal in the 26th minute as the Reds maintained their one-point lead over Chelsea, which had briefly taken top spot earlier in the day by beating bottom-placed West Bromwich Albion 2-0.

But it was Keane, scoring in consecutive matches for the first time since his arrival from Tottenham in July, who helped to solidify Liverpool's title credentials by grabbing a double inside five minutes after the break.

"It was a good convincing win for us," Keane said. "The way we moved forward with the ball was pleasing for the spectators."

With his clinical finishes, Keane is finally living up to his 19 million pound (then $38 million; ?26 million) transfer fee.

Having salvaged the draw at Arsenal last week, he gave Liverpool a two-goal cushion in the 53rd minute by bringing down Gerrard's through ball with his left boot and blasting inside the near post.

The Ireland striker completed a slick move that started from the back in the 58th as Liverpool ended 2008 unbeaten at home in the league.

Xabi Alonso picked up the ball from goalkeeper Pepe Reina, darted forward unchallenged for 60 meters (yards) before passing to Benayoun on the right, who sent the ball back into Keane to sidefoot into the net for his seventh Liverpool goal.

"We've had no doubts in Robbie's ability and his work rate," Liverpool assistant manager Sammy Lee said. "What his commitment is and what he adds to the football club is immense.

"He has been working very hard and tirelessly. We know the quality of the boy and that's why we brought him to the football club."

The Reds have been waiting 19 years to capture a 19th English league title, but will have little room for error in their final 19 matches as defending champion Manchester United also won on Friday to remain seven points behind with two games in hand.

Rafa Benitez's Liverpool had not been looking like title contenders of late, enduring five draws and winning just once.

"It's very important to be top — I don't mean to sound conceited but that's what we prepare for," Lee said. "The patience in our play, the quality in our play was paramount.