Final insult on night of pain

May 24 2007 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo

Inzaghi was the man on the end of it – a top class striker who can produce when it matters most – and Liverpool were left with an uphill struggle of Olympian proportions.

Two years ago they pulled back three goals in six minutes.

But when Dirk Kuyt finally buried Agger’s flick on there were just two minutes of normal time remaining, plus three of time added on.

Not even in the annals of Liverpool’s amazing European history have they produced a comeback to match that.

But there was still one moment of touching success, even in defeat.

The travelling Kop drowned out the Milanese celebrations with a poignant chorus of “Rafael Benitez” at the whistle.

He has work to do this summer – and he knows it.

If revenge is a dish best served cold, Milan were icy-hearted assassins.

But don’t bet against Benitez becoming the ultimate avenger.

In the end there was no Athenian legend, no new mythology, no Gods to worship.

But in the words of the song . . . Liverpool ended the night with hope in their hearts.