Source: Liverpool_Echo
DAVID RANDLES: Eye-catching Liverpool FC display raises Anfield spirits against Portsmouth
BEFORE a sombre mood was lifted by one of the outstanding performances of the season, a banner in the Anfield Road said it all.[LNB]Held between an obliging visiting fan and a concerned local in the home section, the message was simple.[LNB]'Leeds Pompey Liverpool?'[LNB]The question mark provided a teaser for Reds supporters that doesn't bear thinking about.[LNB]At the other end of the ground another one read 'Liverpool FC Built by Shanks Broke by Yanks'.[LNB]The warnings took on extra meaning as the financially stricken Pompey limped into town.[LNB]If the result wasn't so important for Liverpool last night, it would have been easy to get immersed in the gloom that has enveloped Portsmouth.[LNB]After becoming the first Premier League club to enter administration, a nine-point deduction now hangs precariously over them.[LNB]With most of their crown jewels auctioned off to the highest bidders, reality hit home with the loss of 85 jobs at the club this week.[LNB]Compared to Portsmouth, Liverpool's ills are superficial.[LNB]But like any ailment that goes unchecked for too long, the threat of what some deem as potentially terminal continues to lurk in the background.[LNB]While Liverpool and Portsmouth are two very different animals, the mismanagement at Fratton Park should provide a watershed for those living beyond their means.[LNB]Three years ago it was inconceivable for a club of Liverpool's heritage and stature to go the same way.[LNB]But that was under another regime in what now appears an age of innocence.[LNB]News of interest from US private equity firm, Rhone Group, this week will be welcomed by those handing out the 'Debt Lies & Cowboys' leaflets around the ground before kick-off.[LNB]Liverpool are likely to attract the kind of investment Portsmouth can only dream of.
