Riise reveals own goal pain

Norwegian 'devastated' after Anfield nightmare

By Eivind Haugen   Last updated: 24th April 2008

John Arne Riise Liverpool v Newcastle

Riise: Disappointed

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John Arne Riise has spoken of his heartbreak following the own goal against Chelsea in Tuesday's UEFA Champions League semi-final.

Liverpool had taken the lead in the first leg at Anfield before Riise stooped to head Salomon Kalou's cross past his own goalkeeper in the final minute of injury time.

The away goal has given Chelsea the edge ahead of next week's return leg at Stamford Bridge and Riise admits he was utterly distraught.

"It was very disappointing to see the ball go in our own net, especially at that time," The Norwegian full-back told NTB.no.

He added in The Sun: "What can I say? I'm ashamed and devastated."

However, Riise is determined to respond in the right way and help his team-mates overcome Chelsea in the second leg.

"Sometimes you experience these things and for defenders it happens from time to time. Now it has happened to me," he said.

"I know how strong I am mentally, and what really matters is how you recover. I've experienced tougher things and I know I will learn from this.

"I'm disappointed, but I won't go around and hang my head. I have to use this as something positive."