Reds Off To Winning Start - Benny C

Two quick goals from Sinama-Pongolle and Luis Garcia were enough to overcome a Betis side that really put the pressure on in the second half.

On a night with six changes (and a rather interesting red and gold new European Strip - Yep, I'll be buying one when they go on sale in November) from the side that drew with Tottenham on Saturday.

Crouch looked a real handful, and both goals were taken superbly. Betis seemed out of sorts for the entire first half, coming out stronger after the break.

Liverpool were cut open from a superb Dani pass five minutes after half time for Arzu to knock the ball cleanly under the onrushing Reina to set up a nervy second half in which Liverpool never really got off the back foot.

The introduction of Cisse and Riise as subs meant that we had a couple of breaks that really could have been put away. But, on the whole, a good performance that sees us topping the group after week one. (A fact that probably hasn't been missed in London - another semi-final exit on the cards?)

Again, special mention goes to Sissoko who had another good game. Both he and Alonso controlled the midfield for long periods of the game which goes to show that we really do seem to have a great depth in the squad at long last. (I don't want to speak too soon, but the new signings look good.)

Next stop Chelsea at Anfield in 2 weeks.

After their performance last night, it looks like we are in with a real shout in what should be a fantastic game.

Will it be another of those "European nights at Anfield" that the press (and the fans) love so much. Oh I hope so.......

Still in the mean time just the Small matter of Man U.S.A at the weekend. Bring it!