When you walk through a storm...

May 24 2007 by Dan Kay, Greg O'Keeffe and Mary Murtagh

THERE was a carnival atmosphere in Liverpool’s Concert Square as the Reds did battle in Athens.

It was standing room only in the bars and clubs as residents and visiting fans watched their team take on AC Milan.

Supporters cheered, clapped, sang themselves hoarse and groaned through every twist and turn in the game.

There was audible disbelief at Milan’s first goal, ecstasy at Liverpool’s late goal, despair, and finally cheers at the final whistle - despite the result.

Harry Carter, of Aigburth, said: “The lads can return home with their heads held high, they did the club and all the fans proud.”

The atmosphere in the square remained quite subdued after the game, with most people staying to chat and commiserate with each other.

Helen Brevuille, of Widnes, said: “I’m not going to go home feeling as bad as this.

“I hope that lots of Reds fans do the same and end the night on a high note”.

More than 200 fans packed into the Parthenon restaurant on Parr Street, to enjoy the big match experience Greek style.

But despite the buoyant atmosphere, fervent support, and the manager’s promise of a belly dance display and ouzo all round, the final scoreline left faces on the floor with the smashed plates.

Among customers watching the game were Bolton Wanderers captain and former Bluecoat School pupil Kevin Nolan.

George Kundi, manager of the restaurant, said: “Everyone in here is a massive Liverpool fan, and we were delighted the final was in Athens so more Liverpudlians could see all the great things that my home country’s capital has got to offer.