Benitez hails character

Reds boss thrilled with second half showing

Last updated: 5th October 2008

Benitez hails character

Benitez: Thrilled

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Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez was full of praise for his side's character after they won 3-2 at Manchester City.

The Reds were up against it at half-time after trailing by two goals before turning things around in a remarkable second half.

Fernando Torres' two goals were sandwiched by Pablo Zabeletta's red card with Dirk Kuyt's injury-time effort securing all three points.

Mistakes

"I think it was a good game, especially for our fans. In the first half we made too many mistakes," he told Sky Sports.

"We changed things around in the second half. At half-time I talked with them about scoring the first goal.

"We were sure we could get back in the game. When you're not playing at your level it's important to show character."

Torres' brace was his fourth goal in two league outings and Benitez is naturally pleased his star striker is back on form following his slow start to the campaign.

On fire

"I don't think he's changed anything. He's on fire now, which is good," he continued.

"The main thing for me was the work rate of the team."

Spanish tactician Benitez was particularly pleased Kuyt ended his long run in the Premier League without finding the back of the net.

"He deserves to score. He scores in the Champions League. Everyone is pleased for him."