So Benitez Was Under Pressure?

Liverpool manager, Rafa Benitez, gives the best possible response to reports of him being under pressure by ensuring victory against Marseille.

That's what I thought along with thousands of other media articles.

It was a crucial game but Liverpool ensured qualification for the latter stages of the Champions League with a comfortable victory in Marseille. The game was practically over inside eleven minutes - Steven Gerrard scoring the first on four minutes from the rebound after his penalty had been saved - a penalty he had won - and then Fernando Torres scored a superb second seven minutes later. A Dirk Kuyt goal immediately after the interval ensured no comeback and the match was sealed in injury time when Ryan Babel scored.

What Makes a Successful Team?

• they win 'must win' games - only a win guaranteeded Liverpool's qualification
• they regularly respond to adversity - Liverpool have done that on numerous occasions over the years - their 5 - 4 UEFA Cup Final victory in 2001, the Champions League Final victory over AC Milan in 2005, coming from three goals down to win on penalties, the FA Cup 3rd Round comeback to defeat Crystal Palace on their way to winning a Final against West Ham United in 2006 where they were two goals behind and then still a goal down in injury before equalising and winning on penalties.
• the players back up their media comments with actions - Torres' support for Benitez wasn't idle talk - he backed with a performance and vital goal against Marseille.
• they have players who will rise to the occasion - Gerrard has done it for Liverpool on so many occasions - as captain and inspirational leader, he leads from the front and sets an example for others to follow.

So Rafa Benitez has strengthened his position when it comes to persuading the American owners that they should release funds for signings in the new year.