[lfc-news] RAFA KEEN TO CLOSE THE GAP

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RAFA KEEN TO CLOSE THE GAP
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N150000050916-1253.htm
Paul Eaton 16 September 2005
Rafael Benitez today insisted his side can prove their Premiership
credentials by beating Manchester United this weekend.
The Liverpool boss is determined to cut the points gap which existed
between the Reds and the top three last season, and he says victories over
their title rivals will go a long way towards securing an improved season
in the league.

"If we win, it will be fantastic for everyone," said Benitez. "We know how
difficult it is but if we do our best and win, when the time comes for us
to face Arsenal and Chelsea, who can say how close we will be? They know
it's always going to be difficult for them when they come to Anfield.

"When you beat the big teams, nothing seems impossible for the rest of the
season.

"When people talk about the gap of 19 points to United or 37 points to
Chelsea, there is an immediate way to cut this.

"You can reduce the gap by six points in just one game. If we win, it's
three points more to us compared to last year and three less for them. That
gap can be reduced.

"If we had won against United home and away last season, for example,
you're taking about a difference of 12 points, six for us, six less for them,

"That's why it's so important when two big clubs face each other and why
there is always a rivalry. We know we are competing with each other for
trophies."

Benitez tasted defeats in both league games with United last season but he
insists his staff and squad are better equipped to come out on top this
time around.

"I have bad memories of playing Manchester United last year," he said. "We
conceded two goals from setpieces at Old Trafford early in the season when
we had some new players and we lost at Anfield because of a mistake.

"I thought we did a good job for 30 minutes at home last season, but not
after that. They kept the ball well and I think you could argue they were
the best team to play at Anfield against us. They were definitely one of
the best.

"I remember it was tough, but I think we have a better side now. I think we
are more familiar with each other and our system now, and our coaching
staff know more about how United play. We had some players like Morientes
and Pellegrino making their debut against them last time, so it wasn't easy.

"This time we are going into the match with a lot of confidence. We have
three clean sheets and two points away from home. That's not bad, but we
know we need to start scoring goals. We've done that in midweek, so that
shows that's not going to be a problem."

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