Sunday, August 24, 2008

Stevie Wonder

Matt Le Tissier was left feeling for Middlesbrough as Steven Gerrard got Liverpool out of jail again.

Gareth Southgate's side looked set to claim a surprise win at Anfield thanks to Mido's second goal in as many games.

But an own goal from Emmanuel Pogatetz dragged Liverpool back into proceedings before captain fantastic Gerrard popped up to break Boro hearts with a last-minute winner.

"Steven Gerrard probably had one of the worst games I've seen him play, but you have got to keep him on the pitch," Le Tissier told Soccer Saturday.

"The ball dropped to him 18 or 19 yards out and the moment you saw him striding on to it, you knew where it was going. He tucked it away very well and the keeper had no chance.

"But Liverpool have got out of jail.

"We say it all the time, but if you can nick a result when you're not playing well - and this was not Liverpool playing particularly well today.

"That's twice now they've done it and that was what was missing last season. If they keep nicking those results when they're not playing at their best, when they do hit form they've got a chance.

"But Gareth Southgate will be beside himself that Middlesbrough haven't got a least a point out of that today."

Le Tissier was still wondering just how Boro came away with nothing to show for a spirited display.

In the end, Lady Luck helped with Pogatetz deflecting in Jamie Carragher's shot although referee Mike Riley also played his part with an excellent advantage.

"I've got to give Mike Riley credit because for the first goal it started out on the right wing and (Xabi) Alonso tried to cross it but the ball was blocked by the arm of Gary O'Neil.

"He went to put his whistle in his mouth but saw the ball breaking for Jamie Carragher who took a touch and went on to strike it.

"It was disappointing for Pogatetz after such a good game, but it just flicked off his arm and that has taken it past Ross Turnbull in goal."

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