Fuente : Liverpool F.C.
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/

LIVERPOOL FC: REDS STAY IN THE CHASE

/noticias.info/ Liverpool have kept themselves in the race for 4th place after first half goals from Fernando Morientes and Luis Garcia gave them a crucial 2-1 victory over Portsmouth at Fratton Park tonight.
The win enables Rafa's men to move menacingly ahead of Bolton in 5th place and keeps them within touching distance of the promised land of the 4th place currently occupied by Everton.

The Reds were in front after just 4 minutes and what a welcome goal it was for Fernando Morientes. It was created by John Arne Riise on the right and his cross caused confusion in the box where Nando was on hand to scramble the ball home.

It could have all been very different though but for the 1st minute offside flag that cancelled out Lua Lua's early strike. And that early scare proved to be an indication of the threat carried by a Portsmouth side buoyed by the arrival of new Manager Alain Perrin.

Morientes had a chance to make it 2-0 after 25 minutes, but he couldn't keep his header down. And that miss looked to be costly when Diomansy Kamara leveled for the home side soon after.

The goal coming after the Reds had failed to clear a corner allowing Kamara to score from close range.

It was hard to deny Pompey their equaliser but just when thoughts were turning to half time, Luis Garcia weighed in with his 12th goal of the season to restore Liverpool's advantage with a fine header. That's an impressive return from Luis, who is rapidly becoming a Premiership force.

Garcia's goal proved to be his last contribution though as he was replaced by Smicer at the break, but the Reds emerged for the second half and were almost given some breathing space by Riise, who's shot was saved by the legs of Ashdown.

Liverpool hearts were in their mouths after 57 minutes when Steve Stone missed what can only be described as a sitter. And tension continued to rise when Riise again failed to take advantage of another good chance on 70 minutes.

Portsmouth keeper Ashdown continued to sparkle in goal to keep us on the edge of our seats and weneeded a fine save from Dudek to make the points safe, but Liverpool hung on and have hope and plenty to play for as they head into what is sure to be a thrilling season's climax. notas_de_prensa_archivo