Sunday, August 17, 2008

Benitez Cheered By Opening Victory


Rafael Benitez was happy for the focus to return to the field after Liverpool began their Premier League campaign with a 1-0 win at Sunderland.

Fernando Torres' low shot from the edge of the area with seven minutes remaining proved enough for Liverpool at the Stadium of Light in a fast-paced but scrappy match.

Following recent speculation over his future at Anfield, Benitez was able to discuss a welcome win after Wednesday's Champions League struggle at Standard Liege.

"You could see the team was really focused," he told Setanta Sports 1.

"We want to concentrate on winning, and the best news for our supporters is to win games.

"In the first half, they were attacking; the second half, we were on top and attacking - and continued until the end.

"We had chances. Torres is a key player and he can change games. For the team, it's really important to have these sorts of players."

Meanwhile Sunderland boss Roy Keane knows why his team lost, after enjoying the best of the play for long periods.

"We tired in the last 15 to 20 minutes - which is something I should take responsibility for. We should have had some tougher games in pre-season," he said.

"I know Liverpool have only had one game in Europe, but it was a tough game. We tired, and I think that probably affected our decision-making.

"For all the hard work, the number of goals scored in the last 15 minutes is huge - and the other 75 minutes goes out of the window.

"It was just one moment - that's all we're talking about - but that's the beauty of the Premier League. I can't complain, because I've been on the other side of it."

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