Source: SKY_Sports
Rafa not throwing in towel
iverpool manager Rafa Benitez recognises his side have lost ground in the Premier League title race but is refusing to throw in the towel.[LNB] The Reds find themselves seven points adrift of leaders Manchester United following a 1-1 draw with Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday.[LNB]Defending champions United opened an eight-point lead on Saturday evening after defeating Blackburn, piling the pressure on Liverpool - who travel to Old Trafford on 14th March - to match their result.[LNB]Dirk Kuyt was forced to cancel out Craig Bellamy's opener to rescue a share of the spoils, and Benitez - whose side sit three points clear of Chelsea - admits the situation is not ideal but insists his team remain in the battle for silverware. [LNB]Disappointed"When you are playing catch up, you have to win so we are disappointed, obviously," Benitez told Sky Sports.[LNB]"You never know. Each game you have chances. Chelsea are speaking that they still have a chance, so we also have a chance.[LNB]"We have lost two points, but we can win our games and we still have to play at Old Trafford so we will see."[LNB]Meanwhile, Benitez refused to comment on Sunday speculation which has suggested he has turned down another fresh contract offer on Merseyside.[LNB]Gerrard decision"I explained that we must concentrate on football," he added when questioned on the subject.[LNB]Liverpool's next match is a trip to Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League last 16, live on Sky Sports, and hopes are high inspirational captain Steven Gerrard will be available to face the Spanish giants.[LNB]The England midfielder has been sidelined with a hamstring injury and missed the draw with City, but Benitez has revealed a decision could be made on Monday as to whether Gerrard will face Real. [LNB]"He is still working with the physios and we will decide, maybe tomorrow," concluded Benitez.[LNB]
