Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes the Reds' derby victory over Everton has given them enough breathing space to be able to properly focus on the Champions League.
• More Premier League news club by club
Fernando Torres' 28th goal of the season proved to be enough to settle the 207th clash between the Merseyside clubs.
The victory put five points between the fourth-placed Reds and their neighbours in fifth, and with six matches to go that cushion could be crucial in the race for Champions League qualification.
But Liverpool also still have an interest in this season's competition and they face Arsenal on Wednesday in the first leg of the quarter-finals - the first of three matches in seven days as the pair also meet each other in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday.
Gerrard believes they can go into the tie not having to look over their shoulder in terms of their league position.
"For the time being the pressure is off because we have got the five-point gap, but we have a lot of hard games to come," he said.
"Although we are going to put all our focus on the Champions League, for the league game in between the two matches we still have to put in a big performance and try to keep the gap of five, if not improve it."
The England midfielder was pleased the team were able to quickly get the previous weekend's 3-0 defeat to Manchester United - which ended a seven-match winning run - out of their system.
"Last week was very disappointing - it was a difficult week swallowing that defeat at Old Trafford but it was all about bouncing back and trying to take a positive win into Wednesday," said the 27-year-old.
"The scoreline (at Old Trafford) was more emphatic then we deserved but we have got to forget about that and move on and try to consolidate this fourth position and try to go all the way to Moscow (the host city for the final).
"It was a good win. We were slightly disappointed we didn't make it more comfortable in the first half.
"We created numerous chances to kill the game off in the first half and we just missed putting a toe or a head on a few deliveries into the box and could have scored more, which would have given us more confidence.
"Everton put us under a little bit of pressure in the second half but I never once thought we were going to lose or give the lead away."
Gerrard also paid tribute to match-winner Torres, who scored his 21st league goal in 29 league matches.
The Spaniard latched on to Dirk Kuyt's pass to expertly fire past goalkeeper Tim Howard. "It was no shock to me," added Gerrard. "Give the guy chances and he'll put them away - simple as that."
• More Premier League news club by club
Fernando Torres' 28th goal of the season proved to be enough to settle the 207th clash between the Merseyside clubs.
The victory put five points between the fourth-placed Reds and their neighbours in fifth, and with six matches to go that cushion could be crucial in the race for Champions League qualification.
But Liverpool also still have an interest in this season's competition and they face Arsenal on Wednesday in the first leg of the quarter-finals - the first of three matches in seven days as the pair also meet each other in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday.
Gerrard believes they can go into the tie not having to look over their shoulder in terms of their league position.
"For the time being the pressure is off because we have got the five-point gap, but we have a lot of hard games to come," he said.
"Although we are going to put all our focus on the Champions League, for the league game in between the two matches we still have to put in a big performance and try to keep the gap of five, if not improve it."
The England midfielder was pleased the team were able to quickly get the previous weekend's 3-0 defeat to Manchester United - which ended a seven-match winning run - out of their system.
"Last week was very disappointing - it was a difficult week swallowing that defeat at Old Trafford but it was all about bouncing back and trying to take a positive win into Wednesday," said the 27-year-old.
"The scoreline (at Old Trafford) was more emphatic then we deserved but we have got to forget about that and move on and try to consolidate this fourth position and try to go all the way to Moscow (the host city for the final).
"It was a good win. We were slightly disappointed we didn't make it more comfortable in the first half.
"We created numerous chances to kill the game off in the first half and we just missed putting a toe or a head on a few deliveries into the box and could have scored more, which would have given us more confidence.
"Everton put us under a little bit of pressure in the second half but I never once thought we were going to lose or give the lead away."
Gerrard also paid tribute to match-winner Torres, who scored his 21st league goal in 29 league matches.
The Spaniard latched on to Dirk Kuyt's pass to expertly fire past goalkeeper Tim Howard. "It was no shock to me," added Gerrard. "Give the guy chances and he'll put them away - simple as that."
Fernando Torres' early strike gave Liverpool a precious five-point lead over their Merseyside rivals in the race for Champions League qualification.
Torres cost Liverpool around £20million last summer, and this goal - of all the 28 he has grabbed so far - could be the one that earns the riches that come from participating in Europe's premier competition each season.
Liverpool dominated the first half, and should have been in total command. Steven Gerrard hit a post and a hatful of chances were wasted.
But Everton, to their immense credit, tested Liverpool to the absolute limits in the second-half, and the Kop stood in anguish as they watched their heroes defend the goal in front of them.
But Liverpool hung on to complete only their 12th league double over the Goodison Park side in what was virtually a final eliminator for fourth spot.
Liverpool were missing the suspended Javier Mascherano, while Everton were without the injured Tim Cahill and Andrew Johnson -arguably damaging the Toffees' system more than the Argentina midfielder's absence for the Reds.
And after a spirited opening spell, in which Mikel Arteta tested Jose Reina with a spin and shot from 25-yards, Liverpool set about establishing a superiority on this 207th Mersey derby.
With so much at stake, financially as well as local pride, the game was tense and needed a firm control from referee Howard Webb, mindful of the 36 yellow and seven red cards in the seven derbies since Benitez took charge at Anfield.
In a fixture that has more dismissals than any other Premier League fixture Webb did a pretty decent job of keeping the passions in check.
He booked both Lee Carsley and Phil Neville - on his 100th league appearance for Everton - inside the first 18 minutes for fouls on Torres and Lucas, by which time Liverpool were deservedly in front.
And it had to be that man Torres.
The Spaniard may not have faired too well with goals for Atletico in the Madrid derby, just one, but he scored inside seven minutes of his Merseyside derby debut.
It was Liverpool's 100th in all competitions this season and he equalled the club record of scoring in six successive home league games, his 28th of a stunning first campaign in the Premier League.
It came when Xabi Alonso caught Ayegbeni Yakubu in possession 20 yards out, a situation the Nigerian should have had under control.
But he dithered and the ball was poked back into the box for Dirk Kuyt to flick forward. And Torres was on it in a flash, drilling the ball inside Tim Howard's far post with the normally solid Everton rearguard all over the place.
And for the next half-hour Liverpool pinned Everton back, searching for further success.
Kuyt had shots blocked by Tony Hibbert and Howard in quick succession, Ryan Babel missed a gift close-in from a John Arne Riise cross before a brave saving header from Carsley stopped Lucas reaching a Steven Gerrard free-kick.
Gerrard, himself, on his 20th derby appearance, then almost uprooted Howard's right-hand post with a fierce, dipping drive from 25-yards.
But the feeling remained that Everton were still in it despite Reina barely being tested.
Everton, with Arteta in a more central midfield role, and Steven Pienaar a wandering, sporadic, influence, had unquenchable belief.
That was reinforced by the way they were over-powering Lucas in midfield, possession constantly being conceded.
And they started the second period with growing intent. Pienaar was booked for a foul on Babel as the Blue' tempo increased.
Neville's move to a more advanced role on the left of midfield forced Kuyt to defend and stopped Jamie Carragher getting forward. And Everton started to win free-kicks, their dangerous trademark.
Leon Osman sent a header just wide from one of Arteta's accurate deliveries, with Liverpool now having to defend. Manuel Fernandes came on for Pienaar on the hour, and Everton continued to press.
Phil Jagielka was booked for a late challenge on Gerrard before Neville was withdrawn - presumably injured because he headed straight down the tunnel after grabbing a track-suit top angrily, before exchanging a handshake with Moyes.
Liverpool gambled on sitting back and trying to catch Everton on the break the more they came forward, increasingly desperate to salvage something.
Babel was withdrawn to allow Yossi Benayoun into the argument, while Everton sent Jagielka up front late on. Everton were a constant and growing menace which needed all of Sami Hyypia's experience and Martin Skrtel's brawn to contain.
The unease in Liverpool ranks increased with Torres booked for time wasting, before being withdrawn, Jermaine Pennant coming on with two minutes left.
Kuyt curled a 20-yarder just wide and Howard saved superbly from Gerrard, but it was all Everton as the seconds ticked away.
Liverpool sent on Peter Crouch for Gerrard in injury-time as they successfully used up the last moments.
Torres cost Liverpool around £20million last summer, and this goal - of all the 28 he has grabbed so far - could be the one that earns the riches that come from participating in Europe's premier competition each season.
Liverpool dominated the first half, and should have been in total command. Steven Gerrard hit a post and a hatful of chances were wasted.
But Everton, to their immense credit, tested Liverpool to the absolute limits in the second-half, and the Kop stood in anguish as they watched their heroes defend the goal in front of them.
But Liverpool hung on to complete only their 12th league double over the Goodison Park side in what was virtually a final eliminator for fourth spot.
Liverpool were missing the suspended Javier Mascherano, while Everton were without the injured Tim Cahill and Andrew Johnson -arguably damaging the Toffees' system more than the Argentina midfielder's absence for the Reds.
And after a spirited opening spell, in which Mikel Arteta tested Jose Reina with a spin and shot from 25-yards, Liverpool set about establishing a superiority on this 207th Mersey derby.
With so much at stake, financially as well as local pride, the game was tense and needed a firm control from referee Howard Webb, mindful of the 36 yellow and seven red cards in the seven derbies since Benitez took charge at Anfield.
In a fixture that has more dismissals than any other Premier League fixture Webb did a pretty decent job of keeping the passions in check.
He booked both Lee Carsley and Phil Neville - on his 100th league appearance for Everton - inside the first 18 minutes for fouls on Torres and Lucas, by which time Liverpool were deservedly in front.
And it had to be that man Torres.
The Spaniard may not have faired too well with goals for Atletico in the Madrid derby, just one, but he scored inside seven minutes of his Merseyside derby debut.
It was Liverpool's 100th in all competitions this season and he equalled the club record of scoring in six successive home league games, his 28th of a stunning first campaign in the Premier League.
It came when Xabi Alonso caught Ayegbeni Yakubu in possession 20 yards out, a situation the Nigerian should have had under control.
But he dithered and the ball was poked back into the box for Dirk Kuyt to flick forward. And Torres was on it in a flash, drilling the ball inside Tim Howard's far post with the normally solid Everton rearguard all over the place.
And for the next half-hour Liverpool pinned Everton back, searching for further success.
Kuyt had shots blocked by Tony Hibbert and Howard in quick succession, Ryan Babel missed a gift close-in from a John Arne Riise cross before a brave saving header from Carsley stopped Lucas reaching a Steven Gerrard free-kick.
Gerrard, himself, on his 20th derby appearance, then almost uprooted Howard's right-hand post with a fierce, dipping drive from 25-yards.
But the feeling remained that Everton were still in it despite Reina barely being tested.
Everton, with Arteta in a more central midfield role, and Steven Pienaar a wandering, sporadic, influence, had unquenchable belief.
That was reinforced by the way they were over-powering Lucas in midfield, possession constantly being conceded.
And they started the second period with growing intent. Pienaar was booked for a foul on Babel as the Blue' tempo increased.
Neville's move to a more advanced role on the left of midfield forced Kuyt to defend and stopped Jamie Carragher getting forward. And Everton started to win free-kicks, their dangerous trademark.
Leon Osman sent a header just wide from one of Arteta's accurate deliveries, with Liverpool now having to defend. Manuel Fernandes came on for Pienaar on the hour, and Everton continued to press.
Phil Jagielka was booked for a late challenge on Gerrard before Neville was withdrawn - presumably injured because he headed straight down the tunnel after grabbing a track-suit top angrily, before exchanging a handshake with Moyes.
Liverpool gambled on sitting back and trying to catch Everton on the break the more they came forward, increasingly desperate to salvage something.
Babel was withdrawn to allow Yossi Benayoun into the argument, while Everton sent Jagielka up front late on. Everton were a constant and growing menace which needed all of Sami Hyypia's experience and Martin Skrtel's brawn to contain.
The unease in Liverpool ranks increased with Torres booked for time wasting, before being withdrawn, Jermaine Pennant coming on with two minutes left.
Kuyt curled a 20-yarder just wide and Howard saved superbly from Gerrard, but it was all Everton as the seconds ticked away.
Liverpool sent on Peter Crouch for Gerrard in injury-time as they successfully used up the last moments.
Newcastle have been linked with a surprise summer swoop for former Arsenal forward Jose Antonio Reyes.
The 24-year-old, who made his name with Seville, is currently out of favour at Atletico Madrid and has been targeted by Toon boss Kevin Keegan as a man who can help bring back attacking football to St James' Park.
The Spanish international, who moved to Arsenal for £10.5million in 2004, never settled in the captial and was loaned to Real Madrid in August 2006, before being sold to city rivals Atletico at the start of this season.
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley is ready to give Keegan his full financial backing in the summer as long as the north-east club avoid relegation this season.
The 24-year-old, who made his name with Seville, is currently out of favour at Atletico Madrid and has been targeted by Toon boss Kevin Keegan as a man who can help bring back attacking football to St James' Park.
The Spanish international, who moved to Arsenal for £10.5million in 2004, never settled in the captial and was loaned to Real Madrid in August 2006, before being sold to city rivals Atletico at the start of this season.
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley is ready to give Keegan his full financial backing in the summer as long as the north-east club avoid relegation this season.
Arsenal captain William Gallas has made the remarkable claim that he has no true friends within Arsene Wenger's squad and admitted that he is an awe of former Chelsea team-mate John Terry.
• More Premier League news club by club
Gallas hopes to be in the France team to face England in Paris tomorrow night and will renew acquaintances with Terry, Joe Cole and Frank Lampard just days after Chelsea ended Arsenal's Barclays Premier League title hopes with a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
Meanwhile the central defender also made it clear just how important tonight's friendly match is to the French team.
Gallas said: "Matches with France are always very important and this is England so it's even more important. The stadium will be full.
"This is more than simply a friendly as for some players there is always extra motivation against England.
"We appreciate each other as players but at the same time we want to show that we are better than them."
• More Premier League news club by club
Gallas hopes to be in the France team to face England in Paris tomorrow night and will renew acquaintances with Terry, Joe Cole and Frank Lampard just days after Chelsea ended Arsenal's Barclays Premier League title hopes with a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
Asked by a French newspaper who his mates were at Arsenal, Gallas said: "Mates? Well, they are more like acquaintances. At Arsenal there is Theo Walcott but he is very young.
"Really, it's the guys at Chelsea like Frank Lampard, John Terry, Wayne Bridge and Joe Cole. It always gives me pleasure to see them again.
"We all have our own lives but when we see each other - especially Terry - we always like to spend some time talking together.
"After all, I spent five years by their sides. There is always something between us. John Terry in particular. I like his mentality. He is a real warrior.
"In fact he is an example to me even though he is much younger than me।"
"Really, it's the guys at Chelsea like Frank Lampard, John Terry, Wayne Bridge and Joe Cole. It always gives me pleasure to see them again.
"We all have our own lives but when we see each other - especially Terry - we always like to spend some time talking together.
"After all, I spent five years by their sides. There is always something between us. John Terry in particular. I like his mentality. He is a real warrior.
"In fact he is an example to me even though he is much younger than me।"
Gallas' peculiar reaction could possibly be explained by a suggestion that he understood the question to refer to English mates at Arsenal.
Either way, his comments are unlikely to go down well at the Emirates Stadium.
Meanwhile the central defender also made it clear just how important tonight's friendly match is to the French team.
Gallas said: "Matches with France are always very important and this is England so it's even more important. The stadium will be full.
"This is more than simply a friendly as for some players there is always extra motivation against England.
"We appreciate each other as players but at the same time we want to show that we are better than them."
Kevin Pietersen admitted he has been frustrated with his failure to make big scores after ending his drought with a vital century for England in the deciding Test against New Zealand.
The Hampshire batsman hit a brilliant 129 to help England recover and reach 240 for seven by the close of the opening day at McLean Park after they had won the toss and decided to bat first on a flat-looking pitch.
England had slumped to 36 for four inside the first 24 overs but Pietersen, who had gone 10 Test innings without even scoring a half-century, brought up his 11th Test century to at least give them a chance of competing in the remainder of the Test.
"It was a pretty big hole to be in, especially losing the top three batters so it was a day we had to scrap again," admitted Pietersen, who hit a six and 12 fours during his innings.
"We've scrapped this whole series and we had to do that again. I'm really happy with the way I played and I'm really happy with the outcome.
"I've been playing well in the five Test matches leading up to this and I've got a 30 or 40 in every single Test, I've just not been able to go on.
"I don't know the reason and that's frustrating because I let a lot of people down who come to watch all the time. I like to entertain and play good innings so it's been frustrating I haven't been doing that.
"It's just been a tough time, but that's the cycle of life and these things happen and hopefully I've come through it now and I continue scoring - I'm pretty happy with 11 hundreds in 36 games."
It was the first barren streak of Pietersen's illustrious career and he was determined to end it in the final Test, stressing: "I'm not a robot. I always said I was going to go through a patch where I wasn't scoring for a while and hopefully that patch has ended and the cricket gods are with me now.
"You go through series and months when you go through a drought. It happens to everybody - even Ricky Ponting in Australia has gone through it in the one-dayers. How fun would life be if everything was hunky dory all the time?"
Pietersen's innings held England together after debutant seamer Tim Southee claimed two wickets in his first spell and then returned with the new ball to dismiss the top scorer.
But Pietersen believes England are still in the Test having battled their way to a more respectable score by the close with Stuart Broad hitting a Test-best unbeaten 42.
"From a team point of view, we've got 240 and if the lads stick it out for an hour or even until lunch tomorrow and try and get 300 plus then we're definitely not out of the Test match," he added.
Southee, man of the tournament in the recent Under-19 World Cup in Malaysia, got off to the perfect start by trapping Michael Vaughan with his 11th ball in Test cricket and followed up by dismissing Andrew Strauss in his next over.
"It was good to get it out of the way," admitted 19-year-old Southee.
"There were a few nerves there on the first day but to get a wicket under your belt early relieves a bit of pressure and I went from there."
The Hampshire batsman hit a brilliant 129 to help England recover and reach 240 for seven by the close of the opening day at McLean Park after they had won the toss and decided to bat first on a flat-looking pitch.
England had slumped to 36 for four inside the first 24 overs but Pietersen, who had gone 10 Test innings without even scoring a half-century, brought up his 11th Test century to at least give them a chance of competing in the remainder of the Test.
"It was a pretty big hole to be in, especially losing the top three batters so it was a day we had to scrap again," admitted Pietersen, who hit a six and 12 fours during his innings.
"We've scrapped this whole series and we had to do that again. I'm really happy with the way I played and I'm really happy with the outcome.
"I've been playing well in the five Test matches leading up to this and I've got a 30 or 40 in every single Test, I've just not been able to go on.
"I don't know the reason and that's frustrating because I let a lot of people down who come to watch all the time. I like to entertain and play good innings so it's been frustrating I haven't been doing that.
"It's just been a tough time, but that's the cycle of life and these things happen and hopefully I've come through it now and I continue scoring - I'm pretty happy with 11 hundreds in 36 games."
It was the first barren streak of Pietersen's illustrious career and he was determined to end it in the final Test, stressing: "I'm not a robot. I always said I was going to go through a patch where I wasn't scoring for a while and hopefully that patch has ended and the cricket gods are with me now.
"You go through series and months when you go through a drought. It happens to everybody - even Ricky Ponting in Australia has gone through it in the one-dayers. How fun would life be if everything was hunky dory all the time?"
Pietersen's innings held England together after debutant seamer Tim Southee claimed two wickets in his first spell and then returned with the new ball to dismiss the top scorer.
But Pietersen believes England are still in the Test having battled their way to a more respectable score by the close with Stuart Broad hitting a Test-best unbeaten 42.
"From a team point of view, we've got 240 and if the lads stick it out for an hour or even until lunch tomorrow and try and get 300 plus then we're definitely not out of the Test match," he added.
Southee, man of the tournament in the recent Under-19 World Cup in Malaysia, got off to the perfect start by trapping Michael Vaughan with his 11th ball in Test cricket and followed up by dismissing Andrew Strauss in his next over.
"It was good to get it out of the way," admitted 19-year-old Southee.
"There were a few nerves there on the first day but to get a wicket under your belt early relieves a bit of pressure and I went from there."
Liverpool are monitoring the progress of Middlesbrough's midfield teenage prodigy Lee Cattermole.
Sportsmail understands that Anfield boss Rafa Benitez has instructed his scouts to take a look at the £5million-rated 19-year-old with a view to a summer swoop.
Benitez is believed to admire Cattermole's tough-tackling approach and, wary of the need for an even bigger squad next season when he will be able to name seven substitutes, the Spanish manager appears keen to add some young, British talent to his multi-national squad.
Talismanic captain Steven Gerrard, 27, has about five years left before his legs will bring an end to his box-to-box game and Cattermole could use that time to learn from - and eventually fill the boots of - the England star.
Teesside-born Cattermole is one of an increasing line of talented youngsters to emerge from Middlesbrough's impressive Academy system.
England head coach Fabio Capello this week called up Cattermole's Boro team-mates Stewart Downing, 23, and David Wheater, 21, to his second full England squad.
That news was reportedly greeted with much celebration at the Riverside but Liverpool's interest in one of their rising stars will surely provoke a less warm welcome on Teesside.
Cattermole made his Boro debut in the Tyne-Tees derby against Newcastle United on January 2, 2006, and has since made 60 appearances, scoring three goals. He has been capped twice by England Under 21s.
Sportsmail understands that Anfield boss Rafa Benitez has instructed his scouts to take a look at the £5million-rated 19-year-old with a view to a summer swoop.
Benitez is believed to admire Cattermole's tough-tackling approach and, wary of the need for an even bigger squad next season when he will be able to name seven substitutes, the Spanish manager appears keen to add some young, British talent to his multi-national squad.
Talismanic captain Steven Gerrard, 27, has about five years left before his legs will bring an end to his box-to-box game and Cattermole could use that time to learn from - and eventually fill the boots of - the England star.
Teesside-born Cattermole is one of an increasing line of talented youngsters to emerge from Middlesbrough's impressive Academy system.
England head coach Fabio Capello this week called up Cattermole's Boro team-mates Stewart Downing, 23, and David Wheater, 21, to his second full England squad.
That news was reportedly greeted with much celebration at the Riverside but Liverpool's interest in one of their rising stars will surely provoke a less warm welcome on Teesside.
Cattermole made his Boro debut in the Tyne-Tees derby against Newcastle United on January 2, 2006, and has since made 60 appearances, scoring three goals. He has been capped twice by England Under 21s.
When Norwich midfielder Matty Pattison woke up last Sunday morning, he was afraid of incurring his manager Glenn Roeder's wrath for being late for training.
So he jumped into his car wearing only his underpants, T-shirt and shoes and headed for the club's Colney training ground.
But there was no training that day and Pattison was allegedly arrested for drink driving in his underwear on the way, according to the Daily Mirror. He is now in a heap more trouble with Roeder.
Pattison, whose nickname is Party, had reportedly visited a nightclub on Saturday night after the Championship side's 2-0 defeat at Sheffield United.
And it was the effects of the drink that caused Pattison to attempt his mad dash to the training ground on Sunday morning. He was tailed by police halfway through the journey after he was apparently spotted driving erratically.
When the 21-year-old pulled up outside the Colney ground he was arrested after police were said to have found him unsteady on his feet and slurring his words.
Pattison, who was born in South Africa, has been bailed to appear before Norwich magistrates on March 31.
Norwich chief executive Neil Doncaster said: "We understand that Matthew Pattison was arrested and has been charged with a drink-drive offence.
"We will be investigating what has happened and co-operating fully with Norfolk Constabulary.
"When we have more facts at our disposal we will then be in a position to comment further."
Pattison is Roeder's only permanent signing at Carrow Road since the former Newcastle and West Ham boss took over last October.
A source at Norwich told the Mirror: "Matty is always out clubbing which is why he has got the nickname 'Party'. It's a shame he has a bit of a problem because he is a good player."
Roeder is among a number of coaches who are campaigning against the traditional culture of drinking by footballers after seeing the benefits which a more continental attitude to food and drink has had at some Premier League clubs.
So he jumped into his car wearing only his underpants, T-shirt and shoes and headed for the club's Colney training ground.
But there was no training that day and Pattison was allegedly arrested for drink driving in his underwear on the way, according to the Daily Mirror. He is now in a heap more trouble with Roeder.
Pattison, whose nickname is Party, had reportedly visited a nightclub on Saturday night after the Championship side's 2-0 defeat at Sheffield United.
And it was the effects of the drink that caused Pattison to attempt his mad dash to the training ground on Sunday morning. He was tailed by police halfway through the journey after he was apparently spotted driving erratically.
When the 21-year-old pulled up outside the Colney ground he was arrested after police were said to have found him unsteady on his feet and slurring his words.
Pattison, who was born in South Africa, has been bailed to appear before Norwich magistrates on March 31.
Norwich chief executive Neil Doncaster said: "We understand that Matthew Pattison was arrested and has been charged with a drink-drive offence.
"We will be investigating what has happened and co-operating fully with Norfolk Constabulary.
"When we have more facts at our disposal we will then be in a position to comment further."
Pattison is Roeder's only permanent signing at Carrow Road since the former Newcastle and West Ham boss took over last October.
A source at Norwich told the Mirror: "Matty is always out clubbing which is why he has got the nickname 'Party'. It's a shame he has a bit of a problem because he is a good player."
Roeder is among a number of coaches who are campaigning against the traditional culture of drinking by footballers after seeing the benefits which a more continental attitude to food and drink has had at some Premier League clubs.
Arsene Wenger fears of facing English opposition in the Champions League quarter-final were confirmed today when the club were drawn against 2005 champions Liverpool.
Wenger now faces the prospect of playing Liverpool three times within a week and, even though he was keen to avoid another Premier League team, the Arsenal manager remained confident his team can progress.
He said: “We knocked AC Milan out. That was a big hurdle. We were strong enough to knock out the holders so we can do it against Liverpool.
“Their stadium is a big factor and their fans get behind the team but I think it is challenging and interesting as well. I said I would rather not have drawn an English team but this is the quarter- finals and all the teams are of a high level.”
Chelsea were upbeat after being drawn against Turkish side Fenerbahce. Chief executive Peter Kenyon said the club had “real pedigree” and other teams were keen to avoid them.
The draw in Switzerland also pitted Manchester United — the fourth English club left in the competition — against AS Roma.
If Chelsea overcome Fenerbahce, an English team will be gauranteed a place in the final in Moscow on 21 May. In the other tie Barcelona face Bundesliga side Schalke 04.
Arsenal managing director Keith Edelman said: “Liverpool are a great team with fantastic experience in this competition. We are playing them three times in a week and I think the tactics in every match will be watched very carefully by the managers. It will be very exciting for the fans.”
This will be the first time the clubs have met in European competition and Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry said: “All three games will be very tight. I guess we have avoided a trip to Turkey which is a bonus.
“The possibility of two English teams in the final is very much alive.”
Whoever wins will face Chelsea in the semi-finals and Kenyon said: “It's good news for the supporters. The first time we could meet another English team is the semi finals. It's a good draw and it is the first time we have played Fenerbahce so there is no history between the clubs.”
Asked whether Chelsea could bounce back from their Carling Cup Final defeat by Spurs, Kenyon said: “We have had disappointments all the way through the season. But now everybody is hitting fitness at the right time of year.”
Wenger now faces the prospect of playing Liverpool three times within a week and, even though he was keen to avoid another Premier League team, the Arsenal manager remained confident his team can progress.
He said: “We knocked AC Milan out. That was a big hurdle. We were strong enough to knock out the holders so we can do it against Liverpool.
“Their stadium is a big factor and their fans get behind the team but I think it is challenging and interesting as well. I said I would rather not have drawn an English team but this is the quarter- finals and all the teams are of a high level.”
Chelsea were upbeat after being drawn against Turkish side Fenerbahce. Chief executive Peter Kenyon said the club had “real pedigree” and other teams were keen to avoid them.
The draw in Switzerland also pitted Manchester United — the fourth English club left in the competition — against AS Roma.
If Chelsea overcome Fenerbahce, an English team will be gauranteed a place in the final in Moscow on 21 May. In the other tie Barcelona face Bundesliga side Schalke 04.
Arsenal managing director Keith Edelman said: “Liverpool are a great team with fantastic experience in this competition. We are playing them three times in a week and I think the tactics in every match will be watched very carefully by the managers. It will be very exciting for the fans.”
This will be the first time the clubs have met in European competition and Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry said: “All three games will be very tight. I guess we have avoided a trip to Turkey which is a bonus.
“The possibility of two English teams in the final is very much alive.”
Whoever wins will face Chelsea in the semi-finals and Kenyon said: “It's good news for the supporters. The first time we could meet another English team is the semi finals. It's a good draw and it is the first time we have played Fenerbahce so there is no history between the clubs.”
Asked whether Chelsea could bounce back from their Carling Cup Final defeat by Spurs, Kenyon said: “We have had disappointments all the way through the season. But now everybody is hitting fitness at the right time of year.”
Rafa saluted "the power of the Premier League" after Liverpool made sure there will be a full complement of English teams in Friday's Champions League quarter-final draw.
Already firmly in charge of their last 16 tie after a 2-0 win at Anfield three weeks ago, Liverpool added to Inter Milan's misery as Fernando Torres' 26th goal of the season completed a glorious quartet of English triumphs.
Liverpool join Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea in the last eight.
Torres struck in the 64th minute to end 10-man Inter's hopes and round off a San Siro double for the Barclays Premier League after Arsenal stunned AC Milan here last week.
Benitez was in jubilant mood as he hailed his side's latest outstanding European achievement and savoured the prospect of a May all-English final in Moscow.
"When all four English teams reach the last eight of the Champions League, it means our game is one of the best in the world," he said.
"It is the power of the Premier League, and it shows that our top four teams are maybe the best in Europe. That much is clear, and no one can say any different.
"There are so many really good players in all four sides. It would be great to see two English sides in the final, especially if we're one. I would be pleased to face another English team in the final. As for Friday's draw, I've no preference. I just want to enjoy tonight and see who we get."
Torres is in unstoppable form, fully justifying his £21million fee with eight goals in his last five appearances.
Benitez said: "We have a lot of confidence in him. He is a real threat to defenders, and when a chance fell his way again, he took it really well.
"We are really pleased and 26 goals is a good total. But the important thing for him is to make sure he scores a few more before the season is out.
"He has a good mentality and is trying to improve every day. The way he is playing and scoring goals is another indication of how much stronger our squad is this season.
"We were controlling the game by outnumbering them in midfield. The idea was to be compact and hit them on the counter-attack, because they could not afford to make any mistakes after our performance at Anfield."
While opposite number Roberto Mancini shocked fans by announcing that he will quit Inter at the end of the season, Benitez's stock in Europe continued to rise, in contrast to another disappointing Premier League campaign.
Benitez said: "You must keep your levels of concentration high for nine months in the Premier League, and that must be our next aim. In cups or Champions League, you only have to focus on one or two games at a time."
Defender Jamie Carragher insisted Liverpool had proved their European pedigree again, saying: "We've beaten possibly the best team in Europe. On domestic form they're top of their league and have only lost one game.
"We've shown over the last three years that we're as good as anyone in Europe.
"We knew if we kept a clean sheet we'd go through - that's what we were determined to get and we got it."
Skipper Steven Gerrard admitted Nicolas Burdisso's dismissal for two yellow cards had proved crucial, saying: "I wouldn't say we were comfortable until the sendingoff. It was a good game to come and get a clean sheet and get something on the break - and we've achieved that.
"We knew they weren't going to play with out-and-out wingers so it was important I defended and helped Javier Mascherano out. I think we controlled the game and deserved to go through.
"Look at our form over the season, we've been inconsistent in the league but a force in Europe - I don't think anyone will want to get us in the last eight."
Already firmly in charge of their last 16 tie after a 2-0 win at Anfield three weeks ago, Liverpool added to Inter Milan's misery as Fernando Torres' 26th goal of the season completed a glorious quartet of English triumphs.
Liverpool join Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea in the last eight.
Torres struck in the 64th minute to end 10-man Inter's hopes and round off a San Siro double for the Barclays Premier League after Arsenal stunned AC Milan here last week.
Benitez was in jubilant mood as he hailed his side's latest outstanding European achievement and savoured the prospect of a May all-English final in Moscow.
"When all four English teams reach the last eight of the Champions League, it means our game is one of the best in the world," he said.
"It is the power of the Premier League, and it shows that our top four teams are maybe the best in Europe. That much is clear, and no one can say any different.
"There are so many really good players in all four sides. It would be great to see two English sides in the final, especially if we're one. I would be pleased to face another English team in the final. As for Friday's draw, I've no preference. I just want to enjoy tonight and see who we get."
Torres is in unstoppable form, fully justifying his £21million fee with eight goals in his last five appearances.
Benitez said: "We have a lot of confidence in him. He is a real threat to defenders, and when a chance fell his way again, he took it really well.
"We are really pleased and 26 goals is a good total. But the important thing for him is to make sure he scores a few more before the season is out.
"He has a good mentality and is trying to improve every day. The way he is playing and scoring goals is another indication of how much stronger our squad is this season.
"We were controlling the game by outnumbering them in midfield. The idea was to be compact and hit them on the counter-attack, because they could not afford to make any mistakes after our performance at Anfield."
While opposite number Roberto Mancini shocked fans by announcing that he will quit Inter at the end of the season, Benitez's stock in Europe continued to rise, in contrast to another disappointing Premier League campaign.
Benitez said: "You must keep your levels of concentration high for nine months in the Premier League, and that must be our next aim. In cups or Champions League, you only have to focus on one or two games at a time."
Defender Jamie Carragher insisted Liverpool had proved their European pedigree again, saying: "We've beaten possibly the best team in Europe. On domestic form they're top of their league and have only lost one game.
"We've shown over the last three years that we're as good as anyone in Europe.
"We knew if we kept a clean sheet we'd go through - that's what we were determined to get and we got it."
Skipper Steven Gerrard admitted Nicolas Burdisso's dismissal for two yellow cards had proved crucial, saying: "I wouldn't say we were comfortable until the sendingoff. It was a good game to come and get a clean sheet and get something on the break - and we've achieved that.
"We knew they weren't going to play with out-and-out wingers so it was important I defended and helped Javier Mascherano out. I think we controlled the game and deserved to go through.
"Look at our form over the season, we've been inconsistent in the league but a force in Europe - I don't think anyone will want to get us in the last eight."
Peter Whittingham and Roger Johnson wrote a new chapter in a remarkable FA Cup fairytale as Cardiff pulled off yet another astonishing giant-killing act at Middlesbrough.
The Welsh club, who face a trip to the High Court this week with their very existence under threat, blasted Barclays Premier League Boro out of the competition to book a semi-final trip to Wembley.
City, the only side to take the cup out of England - they did so in 1927 - will now eagerly await a draw which remarkably will include only one top-flight side, Portsmouth, following the demise yesterday of giants Manchester United and Chelsea.
And the truth is, the Coca-Cola Championship side were full value for their victory as they took the game to Boro throughout.
They forced their way ahead through Peter Whittingham's sensational ninth-minute strike and were in dreamland when defender Roger Johnson headed home a second with just 22 minutes gone.
Thereafter, they not only defended superbly - Stewart Downing's 61st-minute free-kick, which flew inches over the bar, was as close as the home side came to dragging themselves back into the tie - but they might have won even more comfortably.
Dave Jones' side will head for Wembley knowing a good draw could give them a chance of returning for the final on May 17, while opposite number Gareth Southgate now faces a fight for Premier League survival.
The bulk of a crowd of 32,896 - or at least those who remained - made their feelings abundantly clear on the final whistle on a miserable day for the Teessiders.
Cardiff's triumph 81 years ago is the only occasion on which either club has won the trophy with Boro's best effort coming in 1997, when they were runners-up to Chelsea.
But the carnage which had seen Premier League sides fall like nine-pins in this season's competition presented a genuine opportunity for both, and with home advantage, the Teessiders must have fancied their chances before kick-off.
However, with the Riverside Stadium filled to capacity, their hopes were torn apart within a disastrous first 45 minutes.
City's financial problems mean there is a possibility that the club could go out of business, and they approached this afternoon's encounter as if their lives depended on it.
Full-back Tony Capaldi's long throw had already caused the home defence problems when they failed to deal with another with nine minutes gone.
With Boro appealing in vain for handball, Whittingham shuffled his feet to get a glimpse at goal and then curled a superb shot past Mark Schwarzer and in off the upright.
There was stunned silence from three sides of the stadium, although little could the red and white faithful have expected what was to follow.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who scored 33 goals in 89 appearances for Boro, should have collected his ninth for the Bluebirds this season, but headed Capaldi's cross wide.
However, the reprieve was only temporary and when Johnson dived to meet Whittingham's 22nd-minute free-kick at the far post, he gave Schwarzer no chance once again.
Boro rallied briefly with record signing Afonso Alves forcing a 27th-minute save from Peter Enckelman and then appealing in vain for a penalty after going to ground under Kevin McNaughton's last-ditch challenge.
However, Cardiff continued to look the more threatening and Johnson might have doubled his tally had he got any more power or better direction into a 40th-minute header before Whittingham forced an injury time save from Schwarzer.
Among the crowd was a flag bearing the slogan "Spirit of Steaua", and never more had Boro needed the kind of fightback they launched in the UEFA Cup semi-final two seasons ago to see off the Bucharest club having done just the same in the previous round to claw back FC Basle.
Mido's introduction for Alves at the break gave the home side a different focal point, and they started to make an impression as the half wore on.
But Cardiff were not about to surrender their lead without a battle and remained solid in the face of a determined, if often blunt, assault.
They too continued to create chances, Fabio Rochemback having to block a Stephen McPhail drive and then snatch the midfielder's cross just before it made contact with Hasselbaink's forehead with 55 minutes gone.
Downing curled a 61st-minute free-kick just over Enckelman's bar, but Boro had an escape two minutes later when Hasselbaink only just failed to reach a driven cross with the goal at his mercy.
Substitute Steve Thompson might have wrapped things up in style with an 85th-minute header, but directed his effort straight at the keeper, although by then, the already celebrating travelling fans were past caring.
The Welsh club, who face a trip to the High Court this week with their very existence under threat, blasted Barclays Premier League Boro out of the competition to book a semi-final trip to Wembley.
City, the only side to take the cup out of England - they did so in 1927 - will now eagerly await a draw which remarkably will include only one top-flight side, Portsmouth, following the demise yesterday of giants Manchester United and Chelsea.
And the truth is, the Coca-Cola Championship side were full value for their victory as they took the game to Boro throughout.
They forced their way ahead through Peter Whittingham's sensational ninth-minute strike and were in dreamland when defender Roger Johnson headed home a second with just 22 minutes gone.
Thereafter, they not only defended superbly - Stewart Downing's 61st-minute free-kick, which flew inches over the bar, was as close as the home side came to dragging themselves back into the tie - but they might have won even more comfortably.
Dave Jones' side will head for Wembley knowing a good draw could give them a chance of returning for the final on May 17, while opposite number Gareth Southgate now faces a fight for Premier League survival.
The bulk of a crowd of 32,896 - or at least those who remained - made their feelings abundantly clear on the final whistle on a miserable day for the Teessiders.
Cardiff's triumph 81 years ago is the only occasion on which either club has won the trophy with Boro's best effort coming in 1997, when they were runners-up to Chelsea.
But the carnage which had seen Premier League sides fall like nine-pins in this season's competition presented a genuine opportunity for both, and with home advantage, the Teessiders must have fancied their chances before kick-off.
However, with the Riverside Stadium filled to capacity, their hopes were torn apart within a disastrous first 45 minutes.
City's financial problems mean there is a possibility that the club could go out of business, and they approached this afternoon's encounter as if their lives depended on it.
Full-back Tony Capaldi's long throw had already caused the home defence problems when they failed to deal with another with nine minutes gone.
With Boro appealing in vain for handball, Whittingham shuffled his feet to get a glimpse at goal and then curled a superb shot past Mark Schwarzer and in off the upright.
There was stunned silence from three sides of the stadium, although little could the red and white faithful have expected what was to follow.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who scored 33 goals in 89 appearances for Boro, should have collected his ninth for the Bluebirds this season, but headed Capaldi's cross wide.
However, the reprieve was only temporary and when Johnson dived to meet Whittingham's 22nd-minute free-kick at the far post, he gave Schwarzer no chance once again.
Boro rallied briefly with record signing Afonso Alves forcing a 27th-minute save from Peter Enckelman and then appealing in vain for a penalty after going to ground under Kevin McNaughton's last-ditch challenge.
However, Cardiff continued to look the more threatening and Johnson might have doubled his tally had he got any more power or better direction into a 40th-minute header before Whittingham forced an injury time save from Schwarzer.
Among the crowd was a flag bearing the slogan "Spirit of Steaua", and never more had Boro needed the kind of fightback they launched in the UEFA Cup semi-final two seasons ago to see off the Bucharest club having done just the same in the previous round to claw back FC Basle.
Mido's introduction for Alves at the break gave the home side a different focal point, and they started to make an impression as the half wore on.
But Cardiff were not about to surrender their lead without a battle and remained solid in the face of a determined, if often blunt, assault.
They too continued to create chances, Fabio Rochemback having to block a Stephen McPhail drive and then snatch the midfielder's cross just before it made contact with Hasselbaink's forehead with 55 minutes gone.
Downing curled a 61st-minute free-kick just over Enckelman's bar, but Boro had an escape two minutes later when Hasselbaink only just failed to reach a driven cross with the goal at his mercy.
Substitute Steve Thompson might have wrapped things up in style with an 85th-minute header, but directed his effort straight at the keeper, although by then, the already celebrating travelling fans were past caring.
Fit-again David Beckham is fully confident he can earn his 100th England cap in the friendly with France on March 26.
Beckham was left out of new manager Fabio Capello's squad for his first game in charge of the national side, a 2-1 victory over Switzerland, due to a lack of match fitness.
But the Italian hinted yesterday he expects the 32-year-old to be in contention to face Raymond Domenech's side in Paris, although he will assess Beckham in action prior to that when the Los Angeles Galaxy face FC Dallas in a pre-season game on March 15.
And Beckham, in Hong Kong for Galaxy's third game of a three-match Asian tour, believes there will be no doubts about his sharpness, insisting that the decision will be purely down to form.
"Fitness-wise, I'll be perfect," he said. "But it's about performing and hopefully I'll do that."
Beckham insisted he was relaxed over his England future despite his initial exclusion, after being reassured by Capello he would be in the frame for the France encounter, and is also confident he can extend his international career well beyond the Paris friendly.
"That's what he (Capello) said to me. I knew that from the conversation I had with him," he added.
"He said that once I'm back playing and if I'm fit, and I'm playing well enough, then he'll pick me. With the first game after he took charge, I hadn't played any games and he explained that to me. I've played three games so far now and got through them all.
"I believe I can play for my country for a good few more years yet, that's just me being honest. I believe that I can still play at that level.
"The standard is slightly different in the US but it's not as low as everybody thinks. We've got some very good teams and very good players and we play some really good football so we'll just have to wait and see.
"But I believe I can play for my country for a good few years."
If Beckham does join Peter Shilton, Bobby Moore, Bobby Charlton and Billy Wright as only the fifth player to pass the century mark for England, he admitted it will be one of the proudest moments of a career that has seen him claim titles in England and Spain along with the Champions League.
"Reaching 100 games and reaching 100 caps is very special," he said.
"Being a proud Englishmen, it's something that I've always wanted to do since I was a young boy. I've always wanted to play for my country, I've always wanted to captain my country and I've always wanted to reach 100 games because there's not many players that have done that.
"It would be a proud moment if I did that but at the moment I'm working hard on my fitness and working hard with the Galaxy and if I get the 100th cap then great. But we'll just have to wait and see."
England and Blackburn winger David Bentley today told Arsenal's Theo Walcott he will have to leave Arsenal if he is to develop as a top-class player.
Bentley said: “Sometimes you need football, you need games to become better, to put your skills out on the football pitch.
"If he (Walcott) is not getting the minutes at Arsenal, he's going to have to look elsewhere. Your career doesn't start and end at Arsenal. It can flourish somewhere else.
“At the end of the day you want to make a career for yourself," Bentley told talkSPORT radio station.
"You want to play football for a start and you want to make money as well. It's your job. If you want to make a career for yourself you can't afford to stay at a club where you might be 24 or 25 with 30 games under your belt.”
Bentley played only once for Arsenal while he was on the club's books from 2001-06. He was loaned out to Norwich, for whom he played 26 times, and Blackburn, where he made 14 appearances before he signed permanently for the Lancashire club in 2006.
Bentley made regular appearances in the England Under 21 team from 2005, and broke into the full England team last year.
On leaving Arsenal himself to further his playing career, Bentley said: “It was hard to leave. I was there from when I was 12 years old and I had a lot of friends. It becomes like a home. It became comfortable. But I didn't want to accept not playing and thinking 'these players are better than me.' Every week I wanted a game.”
Bentley said: “Sometimes you need football, you need games to become better, to put your skills out on the football pitch.
"If he (Walcott) is not getting the minutes at Arsenal, he's going to have to look elsewhere. Your career doesn't start and end at Arsenal. It can flourish somewhere else.
“At the end of the day you want to make a career for yourself," Bentley told talkSPORT radio station.
"You want to play football for a start and you want to make money as well. It's your job. If you want to make a career for yourself you can't afford to stay at a club where you might be 24 or 25 with 30 games under your belt.”Bentley played only once for Arsenal while he was on the club's books from 2001-06. He was loaned out to Norwich, for whom he played 26 times, and Blackburn, where he made 14 appearances before he signed permanently for the Lancashire club in 2006.
Bentley made regular appearances in the England Under 21 team from 2005, and broke into the full England team last year.
On leaving Arsenal himself to further his playing career, Bentley said: “It was hard to leave. I was there from when I was 12 years old and I had a lot of friends. It becomes like a home. It became comfortable. But I didn't want to accept not playing and thinking 'these players are better than me.' Every week I wanted a game.”
Emmanuel Adebayor believes Arsenal's stunning win in the San Siro which knocked holders AC Milan out of the Champions League proves the Gunners can "beat every single team in the world".
Manager Arsene Wenger hailed his battling side for the perfect away performance in Europe, as they moved through to the quarter-finals courtesy of a 2-0 aggregate win with late goals from Cesc Fabregas and, in stoppage time, Adebayor.
The manner of Arsenal's victory - the first by an English side over Milan in their own ground - will have sent a strong signal Wenger's men are now genuine contenders to reach the final in Moscow as they look to go one step better than in 2006.
The draw for the quarter-finals which takes place in Nyon a week on Friday is an open one, and as such the Gunners could yet face an English side - with Chelsea and Liverpool both looking to join Manchester United in the pot for the last eight.
The likes of Barcelona, who also qualified last night, or Real Madrid, who host Roma this evening, may well also await.
However, Togo frontman Adebayor - whose goal was his 23rd of the campaign, but a first in Europe for Arsenal - believes the Gunners will fear no-one.
Adebayor declared: "A couple of weeks ago people were saying 'Arsenal are not going to win the [Premier League] title, they will also be out of the Champions League'. Now all of us in the squad have the confidence back because this means we can beat every single team in the world."
The African added: "We are trying to build something here again, a new chapter in Arsenal's history.
"We came to the San Siro confident we would qualify and to do it is something magnificent."
Of his goal, set up by a run and cross from substitute Theo Walcott, Adebayor admitted: "It was a simple one, right in front of the posts.
"However, it was also the most important goal I have scored in my career so far."
Manager Arsene Wenger hailed his battling side for the perfect away performance in Europe, as they moved through to the quarter-finals courtesy of a 2-0 aggregate win with late goals from Cesc Fabregas and, in stoppage time, Adebayor.
The manner of Arsenal's victory - the first by an English side over Milan in their own ground - will have sent a strong signal Wenger's men are now genuine contenders to reach the final in Moscow as they look to go one step better than in 2006.
The draw for the quarter-finals which takes place in Nyon a week on Friday is an open one, and as such the Gunners could yet face an English side - with Chelsea and Liverpool both looking to join Manchester United in the pot for the last eight.
The likes of Barcelona, who also qualified last night, or Real Madrid, who host Roma this evening, may well also await.
However, Togo frontman Adebayor - whose goal was his 23rd of the campaign, but a first in Europe for Arsenal - believes the Gunners will fear no-one.
Adebayor declared: "A couple of weeks ago people were saying 'Arsenal are not going to win the [Premier League] title, they will also be out of the Champions League'. Now all of us in the squad have the confidence back because this means we can beat every single team in the world."
The African added: "We are trying to build something here again, a new chapter in Arsenal's history.
"We came to the San Siro confident we would qualify and to do it is something magnificent."
Of his goal, set up by a run and cross from substitute Theo Walcott, Adebayor admitted: "It was a simple one, right in front of the posts.
"However, it was also the most important goal I have scored in my career so far."
Australia cricketer Andrew Symonds showed a streak of rugby talent in Brisbane today when dealing with a pitch-invader's naked ambition.
The all-rounder body-checked the streaker, who had leapt the hoardings at The Gabba, knocking the intruder to the ground for security staff to apprehend.
Symonds, who has a rugby player's physique, wasn't put off his stride. He made a sprightly 42 as Australia failed to overhaul India's total of 258 for nine in the second tri-series final.
India enjoyed wild celebrations immediately after dismissing the Australians for 249 to win the one-day triangular series, which had included Sri Lanka.
James Hopes hit 63 and Matthew Hayden 55 for the hosts but Praveen Kumar's figures of 4-46 helped the tourists to a famous nine-run victory.
Sachin Tendulkar fell agonisingly short of back-to-back centuries as he followed his unbeaten hundred in Sunday's six-wicket win in Sydney with a patient 91 to leave the tourists in a strong position to wrap up the best-of-three series.
India had looked like they were heading to a much bigger total when Tendulkar and Robin Uthappa (30) piled on 94 for the first wicket before Australia's bowlers struck back.
Scroll down for more
1) Symonds lines up his target
2) The all-rounder drops his shoulder and leads with his elbow
3) Bang. The streaker goes airborne after colliding with Symonds
4) Down to earth with a bump. Job done, Symonds can go back to bashing the Indian bowling attack
Yuvraj Singh made a run-a-ball 38 in a 54-run stand with Tendulkar but their dismissals triggered a lower-order batting collapse.
The Indians lost six wickets for 50 runs in the last 11 overs after looking as though they would get closer to 300.
Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni kept the tail wagging with 36 from 37 deliveries but received little support from his team mates as the Australian bowlers stemmed the run flow.
Australia need to win the match to square the series and force a deciding game in Adelaide on Friday.
The all-rounder body-checked the streaker, who had leapt the hoardings at The Gabba, knocking the intruder to the ground for security staff to apprehend.
Symonds, who has a rugby player's physique, wasn't put off his stride. He made a sprightly 42 as Australia failed to overhaul India's total of 258 for nine in the second tri-series final.
India enjoyed wild celebrations immediately after dismissing the Australians for 249 to win the one-day triangular series, which had included Sri Lanka.
James Hopes hit 63 and Matthew Hayden 55 for the hosts but Praveen Kumar's figures of 4-46 helped the tourists to a famous nine-run victory.
Sachin Tendulkar fell agonisingly short of back-to-back centuries as he followed his unbeaten hundred in Sunday's six-wicket win in Sydney with a patient 91 to leave the tourists in a strong position to wrap up the best-of-three series.
India had looked like they were heading to a much bigger total when Tendulkar and Robin Uthappa (30) piled on 94 for the first wicket before Australia's bowlers struck back.
Scroll down for more
1) Symonds lines up his target
2) The all-rounder drops his shoulder and leads with his elbow
3) Bang. The streaker goes airborne after colliding with Symonds
4) Down to earth with a bump. Job done, Symonds can go back to bashing the Indian bowling attack
Part-time spinner Michael Clarke (3-52) captured three wickets, including the prize scalp of Tendulkar, while paceman Nathan Bracken (3-31) also picked up three wickets in the frantic final few overs.
Tendulkar was untroubled as he cruised to his half-century off 70 balls but missed out on his hundred when he misjudged a delivery from Clarke and spooned a catch to a diving Ricky Ponting at mid-on.
Yuvraj Singh made a run-a-ball 38 in a 54-run stand with Tendulkar but their dismissals triggered a lower-order batting collapse.
The Indians lost six wickets for 50 runs in the last 11 overs after looking as though they would get closer to 300.
Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni kept the tail wagging with 36 from 37 deliveries but received little support from his team mates as the Australian bowlers stemmed the run flow.
Australia need to win the match to square the series and force a deciding game in Adelaide on Friday.
