A cagey first half gave way to a much more open second period, with Elano’s free kick hitting the post. Fernando Torres made the most of the luck to put the Reds ahead just afterwards, Joe Hart made some fine saves and Benjani forced Reina to make a good save at another free kick.
However the Manager was pleased with the spirit that the Blues showed and reflecting on the game he said:
“I think we were in the game for the whole of the first half, even though Steven Gerrard had a half chance and Joe Hart pulled off an excellent save. Liverpool then had that spell of 10 to 15 minutes in the second half when they dominated and that’s when they got the goal.
“But we came back at them, and we tried everything we could until the last minute. I appreciate the efforts the players put in because they showed that they are not in holiday mode yet.
“It was good to see, it was very professional and I’m sure that they will try their best next Sunday against Middlesbrough because it would be nice to end the season with a victory.
“We had a lot of half-chances but we did not get that last pass through in the first half, however it was important to show our spirit today.”
City’s travelling fans were not disheartened even after Torres’ strike, and Sven appreciates the noisy backing they gave the team.
“They have been fantastic all season, and once again today their support was absolutely incredible and we thank all of them.”
