Benitez-Mourinho XIV

Let me recall our meetings with Chelsea since Benitez and Mourinho took over the two clubs in 2004. All in all, we have met them a remarkable 13 times since the 2004/2005 season.

2004/2005

Premier League (A) - Lost (0-1)
Premier League (H) - Lost (0-1)
Carling Cup Final (N) - Lost (2-3)
Champions Lge Semi (A) - Drew (0-0)
Champions Lge Semi (H) - Won (1-0)

2005/2006

Champions Lge Group (H) - Drew (0-0)
Premier Lge (H) - Lost (1-4)
Champions Lge Group (A) - Drew (0-0)
Premier League (A) - Lost (0-2)
FA Cup Semi (N) - Won (2-1)

2006/2007

Community Shield (N) - Won (2-1)
Premier League (A) - Lost (0-1)
Premier League (H) - Won (2-0)

From the results above, it is obvious that our win-loss record against them has not been good although we have won 2 of the 3 meetings with them this season. Wednesday's semifinal in Stamford Bridge will be a really huge match. I am not too sure about the entertainment factor but it will be tensed from the get go.

Looking at the forums in the Liverpool Official Website, the fans are no longer questioning Gerrard's position on the field. My take on this issue is simple. As long as Stevie G plays, I won't complain where he plays. He could be drilling a 30 yard shot which could lead to our winning goal, crossing from the right for Kuyt to head home the winner or even cutting in from the left to shoot pass Cech. It does not matter. We are a better team with Gerrard and it is immaterial where he plays.

Our back four is as strong as any one's in the world. Reina, Finnan, Agger, Carragher and Riise are our most solid back four. Even Arbeloa can fit into the right or left position with ease and it will not dampen our strength in defence. With Hyypia on the bench, it is a very solid defence.

Our midfield is probably our most exciting department. Our central midfield is laden with world class exponents equipped with their own strenghts. Gerrard with his drive and leadership, he could probably do anything with the ball. Alonso, with his vision and crisp passing to set up defence into attack, Sissoko, whose tireless running and harrying of opponents prove essential during our win in the Nou Camp and of course, our new hero, Mascherano who is so well timed in his tackles, it does not seem that he is putting much effort into them. Our wing play may need improvement in the summer but at the moment, they are probably hitting their best patch of form this season. Pennant is coming to life on the right. Gonzalaz is showing glimpses of his brilliance. Let's hope that our wingers will do something special for this tie.

Our forward line may not be the most prolific but it could provide us a hero for this tie. With Kuyt, Crouch, Bellamy and Fowler, I am confident the all important goal will come. I will be waiting for the lineup on Wednesday but I am all for whoever Senor Benitez puts out. He knows what to do with his tactics.

My prediction would be 1-0 to the red of Merseyside with Terry and Lampard unavailable for the return leg due to stomach complications (too much of Scouse Beer). That would be ideal! But, then again with or without JT and Lamps, we will be in Athens.

There is no two ways about it. Come on you Redmen! You can do it! You'll Never Walk Alone!