Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez was pleased that his move to replace skipper Steven Gerrard with Lucas Leiva paid off, as the Brazilian played a key role in the winning goal.

The Reds won 2-1 after Dirk Kuyt scored both their goals from penalty spot after Sami Hyypia had scored an own goal in the first half.

Benitez, whose 71st minute substitution move surprised Gerrard, said after the match: "We weren't keeping the ball very well and were in too much of a hurry sometimes with our final pass.

"I put Lucas on because he is a very good player who can pass the ball well for us.

"In the end, Lucas helped us win the game by having the shot that led to our winning penalty."

Dedicating the Reds’ victory to their fans, the Spaniard said: “That was for all our fans. Our supporters are always fantastic and I dedicate this win to them.

"We thought we deserved to win the game. Our two penalties were both very clear.

"We had a lot of chances during the game but didn't take them. We kept going and got the win."