Kuyt ended Liverpool's five-hour goal drought when he slid in to convert Steve Finnan's cross after Alonso's exquisite pass had created the chance.

And after the break, Alonso produced another moment of brilliance when he shot from inside his own half to leave the slipping Steve Harper groping air.

Luis Garcia had earlier hit the post as Liverpool dominated poor opposition.

However, had Newcastle carried any threat at all, Liverpool may have been punished for their profligate finishing.