Smiles better after 8-0 sensation

Nov 9 2007 by Sam Johnstone, Liverpool Daily Post

THE smile still hasn’t left my face, but I know that one result does not a season make.

Still, 8-0 to set a Champions League record is a good way to go into a weekend game isn’t it?

I was set to have a moan about the Blackburn game, but Tuesday night has put a different complexion on things.

That’s not to say that everything in the garden is rosy, but there were so many positives to be gathered from the demolition of the Turkish side that I thought we’d stay positive.

One thing about last weekend, though is Dirk Kuyt. I’m a big fan as, aside from being a thoroughly decent lad, he works his socks off for the team and always acknowledges the supporters.

He was, however, disappointing against Rovers, missing at least three chances to give us all the points. I hope he can take it on the chin and keep plugging away, because there’s no doubt he’s a talented lad with a lot of skill and passion.

But Tuesday was a fantastic performance and one that was overdue.

Breathtaking doesn’t really sum it up. It was a performance full of passion, hunger, skill and commitment, with every player giving his all for the cause.

The important thing now, though, is to apply the same kind of commitment to swift attacking football in the league, starting with Fulham tomorrow.

We’re still in with a shout so take the confidence that the result on Tuesday has given us and apply it domestically.

With a busy few weeks coming up we have to replicate the tempo and sharpness we showed at Anfield on Tuesday to every game we play. If the players are serious about the league being our number one priority, then let’s see it.

And I hope Rafa allowed himself a smug moment when contemplating some of the press he’s got over the past few weeks. He deserves our support and it was great to hear the Kop singing his name with gusto.