Source: Liverpool_Echo
Liverpool FC hard work led to Elland Road victory, says manager Rafa Benitez
LIVERPOOL manager Rafael Benitez felt his much-changed team were rewarded for their hard work after edging past Leeds in the Carling Cup last night.
The Reds were given a scare by the League One leaders at an electric Elland Road before eventually settling the third-round tie with a second-half David Ngog goal.
Leeds had a first-half goal disallowed and spurned a number of other opportunities before Ngog netted after 65 minutes.
'We worked hard and I feel we had our chances,' said Benitez.
'We won with a lot of players not playing and I am really pleased with my team, with the squad.
'These kind of games are very important to keep the quality of character. I think it was a fantastic win for us.
'I think we showed today we can manage with different players and for the rest of the season it is important to know you have players who can come in.'
Ngog played up front on his own and Benitez was pleased with his goal as he seized on a mis-hit Javier Mascherano shot.
