Kerzhakov hat trick helps Russia rout Andorra 4-0

ST PETERSBURG, Russia (Reuters) - Alexander Kerzhakov notched a hat-trick as Russia routed Andorra 4-0 in their Euro 2008 Group E qualifier on Saturday.

The Sevilla striker fired the home team ahead in the eighth minute with a neat lob over Andorra keeper Koldo Alvarez, then doubled the lead eight minutes later.

Kerzhakov made it 3-0 four minutes after the break by latching on to a rebound and substitute Dmitry Sychev scored the fourth midway through the second half.

The Russians could have easily added a few more but were still satisfied with a comfortable victory which moved them top of the group with 14 points from six matches, a point ahead of Croatia, who were playing Estonia later on Saturday.

Andorra, who were missing eight first-team players through injury and suspension, rarely threatened Russia's goal as they slumped to their sixth defeat in six qualifiers.