With atmosphere and support Liverpool may turn the game but they will need to produce from both flanks, something they failed to do at Stamford Bridge. Last night the Liverpool left side did not deliver despite enjoying much possession and the right side was sacrificed to such an extent that the supply was non-existent, enabling Chelsea to find Didier Drogba too easily.
In a surprisingly polite game there was a lack of subtlety and composure. Liverpool failed to examine Chelsea in the first period. With Bolo Zenden attracting the ball on the left, the visitors came to a full stop on that flank as the Dutchman struggled to trouble Paulo Ferreira. Indeed Ricardo Carvalho's great surge exploited Liverpool's left side when Drogba's run at Daniel Agger provided for the lively Joe Cole.
Liverpool needed more ambition from Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso, both deployed too deep. Steven Gerrard worked assiduously coming infield but only crowded the space. Benítez required inspiration but the Spaniard made no changes until the inconspicuous Craig Bellamy was replaced by Peter Crouch.
Liverpool responded, Petr Cech saving brilliantly from Gerrard. Zenden still gained possession from his wide slot as Liverpool showed more drive, but little penetration came from this area. On the other flank Gerrard, playing narrow, allowed an untroubled Ashley Cole to keep his shape and distribute towards Drogba. There was space for Liverpool to exploit in this area but Alvaro Arbeloa appeared reluctant to go forward.
It was not until the 82nd minute that Benítez introduced Jermaine Pennant to provide right-sided service. Both defences were strong but the home team looked more organised. Up front Drogba was the difference, always the favourite whenever he rose and fought for a longer pass. He ensured that Chelsea always looked more threatening.