Roy's Reds cruise

David Ngog struck twice as Roy Hodgson began his reign as Liverpool manager with a 2-0 victory in the first leg of their third qualifying round tie against FK Rabotnicki.

The Frenchman found the net in each half as an under-strength Liverpool side overcame claimed victory with little alarm in Macedonia.

With 17 days still to go before their Premier League opener, Liverpool were without 10 of their World Cup players but their blend of youth and experience coped well in a game of little drama.

The visitors took the lead in the 17th minute when Ngog raced through a static Rabotnicki defence to reach a Lucas free-kick.

The Frenchman ran into the box unchallenged and clipped the ball past a half-hearted attempt at a save from Martin Bogatinov.

Liverpool doubled their advantage just before the hour as Ngog volleyed in a fine second. Martin Kelly found space on the right and whipped in a ball which the striker nimbly turned in.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.