Saturday, September 26, 2009

Liverpool Can Beat Anyone At Anfield, Says Dirk Kuyt


Liverpool FC striker Dirk Kuyt says the Reds can make Anfield a more profitable venue in terms of Premier League points having struggled to break down teams at home last season.

Seven draws against the likes of Stoke, Fulham, West Ham and Hull ultimately cost Rafa Benitez’s side what would have been a first title in 20 years as they finished second, four points behind Manchester United.

Although Liverpool FC have already lost to Aston Villa at Anfield this campaign - their first home league defeat since December 2007 - they also swept aside both Stoke and Burnley 4-0.

And Kuyt feels that shows they have learned important lessons about playing against sides who arrive on Merseyside looking to frustrate.

"Apart from the Villa match, I think we have shown that we can beat any side at Anfield this season," said the Holland international.

"We had difficulties last season with all the draws but now we are able to score goals in the first half.

"It’s really important to score as early as possible because then it will be more difficult for them and easier for us.

"We know the Barclays Premier League is one of the hardest leagues in the world and every team is good with some fine players."

Hull return to Anfield on Saturday nine months after they shocked their hosts in taking a 2-0 lead inside 22 minutes before they were pegged back by two goals from Liverpool FC captain Steven Gerrard.

At the time the Tigers were enjoying a dream start to their maiden Premier League season but this time around their fortunes have changed dramatically, taking just four points from six matches.

Liverpool FC, by contrast have won three successive league matches and are on a five-game winning streak.

"I believe Hull are a good team as well but we have to look at our own strengths and we must believe we can beat them," added Kuyt.

"We must focus on ourselves and respect the opponent.

"We didn’t start that well and have already lost twice. But we have now started to win a couple of games in a row and we want to keep that going, beginning with Hull."

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