My only question is this: Why did Rafa take Banayoun off? In my mind, he was the best player on the pitch, even before the amazing runabout and assist on Torres’ goal. He was playing great defense, and stepping into the playmaker role that Gerrard usually takes. Did he run himself out or something?

Also, why not put Crouch in earlier? He ain’t pretty, but then again, neither is Kuyt – and the guy has a knack for scoring big goals in big games.

Finally, I disagree with you on the officiating – I thought it was pretty poor. Chelsea got the majority of the close calls – and that’s not kosher in such a big game. Terry handled the ball in the box, no penalty given. Makalele jumps to within 3 feet of the corner spot before Gerrard takes the kick, and no card is given. TWICE. Hyppia knocks Ballack down when the ball was already way out of his reach, and they give a game-deciding penalty? Those kinds of things bother me.

That said, this was probably the best match I’ve seen this year – they could’ve played all night and I wouldn’t have left my chair. I only hope that the final is half as exciting!

http://www.championsleaguetalk.com/chelsea-v-liverpool-thats-more-like-it/112

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N159780080430-2309.htm