Rafa calls for calm

Reds move clear at the top of the table

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 26th October 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Rafa calls for calm

Benitez: Composed

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Rafa Benitez is refusing to get carried away despite seeing Liverpool go top of the Premier League table on Sunday.

The Reds secured an impressive 1-0 win away at Chelsea, ending the Blues' 86-game unbeaten run at Stamford Bridge.

That result sent Benitez's side three points clear at the summit, further underlining their title credentials.

Their manager was delighted with the manner in which his side ground out a crucial three points, but has moved to curb the wave of optimism flooding over the club.

Character

"I think it was really good. We knew it was going to be tough, so thanks to the players, thanks to the fans," the Spaniard told Sky Sports.

"I think the mentality of the players was good, they were working together and everybody was doing the right things.

"We have shown character to come from behind in some games and now we have shown character against a very good team. We were trying to do everything perfectly.

"But I will keep saying the same thing - one game at a time. We are in a good position and we have to try and keep going and keep calm."

Chelsea rarely threatened throughout the contest, with Benitez surprised by how comfortably his side were able to snub out the Blues' attacking threat.

Belief

"The second half they were attacking with more direct players so it was difficult, but were a little bit more comfortable," he added.

"In the first half they were coming forward and we knew they were a threat, but the players were organised and we played well on the counter-attack.

"I think we now have a better understanding between the players and the belief is good. We have quality, we have a team."

Despite being the side to end Chelsea's four-year unbeaten run on home turf, Benitez insisted his greatest achievement this season was grinding out a 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Manchester United in September.

"I like to beat United, so I am really pleased this year!" he smiled.