Liverpool goalkeeper Reina burgled during semi-final

LONDON, May 2 (Reuters) The home of goalkeeper Pepe Reina was burgled as he helped Liverpool reach the Champions League final on penalties, Merseyside Police said today.

The 24-year-old Spanish international, who saved two spot kicks in the semi-final shootout against Chelesea, had a number of items stolen from his home in Woolton, Liverpool.

The player's Porshe Cayenne was taken and found burnt out in Fleetwood Walk at about 1100 hrs today. A Bang&Olufsen entertainment system, paperwork and jewellery were also taken.

Merseyside Police were called to the address at 0615 hrs and said the burglary happened between 2330 and 0515 hrs yesterday while Reina was performing heroics at a noisy Anfield.

It is the latest footballer's home to be targeted by thieves in the city. Reina's club team mates Jerzy Dudek, Daniel Agger, Peter Crouch and Florent Sinama-Pongolle, as well as Everton's Andy Van der Meyde, were all burgled last year.

Liverpool beat Chelsea 4-1 in the shootout after a 1-0 win had left the teams level at 1-1 on aggregate following extra time. They will face either Manchester United or AC Milan in the Champions League final in Athens on May 23.

Reuters RS DB2227