Liverpool Football Club News

• Nickname:Reds
• Founded:1892
• Manager:Kenny Dalglish

• Ground:Anfield
• Capacity:45,362

Benitez had faith in Reds

08 Feb 2009 - 12:09:30

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Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez claimed he was always confident that his side would bounce back and secure three vital points at Portsmouth.

Fernando Torres stepped off the bench to head a dramatic 90th-minute winner in a 3-2 success at Fratton Park.

The Reds were forced to come from behind on two occasions after Benitez opted to leave the likes of Torres, Xabi Alonso, Dirk Kuyt and Albert Riera on the bench.

"I had confidence because the team was showing great character - they decided to win," said Benitez.

"The team's mentality is very good and confidence is high, and these things will be very important for the rest of the season.

"We knew it could be difficult to stay at the top for a long time but we are there. If we are in this position in the last month, we'll be able to fight for the title.

"Every win is crucial. We have to win almost every game. We have won and we're trying to put pressure on them (United), but they also have experience and they know that they also have to win almost every game.

"Torres, Kuyt and Alonso were really tired. We had to play extra-time with ten men in a cup replay and then come here two days later. They were so tired. I talked with the medical and technical staff and made the decision.

"It is not a gamble when you know they are tired. If you ask the players, all of them will say they are fit, but you have to decide based on all the information."