Rafa Benitez was full of praise for Dirk Kuyt after the Dutchman's two goals helped sink Tottenham at Anfield on Wednesday night.
The 2-0 win moved Liverpool up to fifth place in the Premier League, just one point behind Spurs who are currently occupying the final Champions League spot.
With Fernando Torres still missing through injury Benitez opted to play Kuyt as a lone striker, and the decision paid off as he opened the scoring after just five minutes and tied up the result with a late penalty.
Benitez was delighted with Kuyt's performance, saying, "He was working very hard and maybe he could have scored four today. His commitment is always 100 per cent, so we are pleased for him.
"He has experience and has scored a lot of goals in Holland and here. Normally Gerrard will take our penalties, but he can do it well too."
"It was important for us to score. Tottenham were playing well and I think we were not in control of the game in the first half - but we still had the better chances.
"After the first goal, they had to go forward and it made space for us. It was good for us because they had to take some risks.
"It was an important win for everyone here because we knew we had to reduce the gap and stay in the race, so I am really pleased with the players.
"They showed the same attitude, effort and team spirit as against Stoke and also real character."
With no further involvement in this season's FA Cup Liverpool now have a break at the weekend before facing Wolves at Molineux on Tuesday night.
Your Comments:
KopThat! - January 25th 2010.
Rafa aint alone either. Kuyt was super against Spurs. Has a very cool head on his shoulders as well to be able to put away the second penalty after his first, one of the best he will ever take, was called back.
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