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Benitez rues missed chances after running Blues close

01/05/2008

Manager Rafael Benitez has claimed Liverpool were "very close" to beating Chelsea in their Champions League semi-final.

The Reds were held to a 1-1 draw at Anfield courtesy of John Arne Riise's last-minute own goal.

But they defied the critics to score in the away leg at Stamford Bridge - something they had failed to do before under Benitez's reign - when Fernando Torres' equaliser took the game into extra time.

A Frank Lampard penalty and Didier Drogba's second of the night meant Ryan Babel's spectacular goal a few minutes from the end was rendered inconsequential.

However, Benitez believed his team could have had a third Champions League final in four seasons if they had taken their chances.

"I thought we were very close," he told Sky Sports.

"They were playing well and we were playing well, especially the second half.

"With the first goal, when we drew level, we had two chances and in extra time we were much better.

"But after that we conceded the second goal, and the third goal finished the game."

Benitez admitted he thought Liverpool's first goal from top-scorer Torres would give his side the upper hand heading into the extra period.

But he was left to reflect on what might have been after several half-chances went begging for the visitors.

"For me there was a massive difference when we scored," the Spaniard continued.

"We had control of the game. We had two chances in extra time, we were in control, and when you are creating opportunities you are not giving them any option.

"But at the end of the day the penalty for the second goal and the third goal was the end."