Barnes backs Reds for Battle of Britain glory

Last updated : 17 March 2003 By Chris Maxwell
Barnes believes Gerard Houllier will approach the Anfield tie with caution after a 1-1 draw at Parkhead gave the Reds a slight advantage heading into the 2nd leg.

Barnes said: "I still believe that Liverpool will squeeze through at Celtic?s expense. When it was 1-1 after just 17 minutes, I did fear for my prediction that this would be the first-leg score, but both defences helped me through to the end.

"For the second match Liverpool will want to play in the same way as they did at Celtic Park, particularly in the first 20 minutes, but will the crowd be patient or will they become frustrated and start to urge them forward?

"I would expect Celtic to get more possession, as Liverpool will be under pressure to attack. Can they suppress the Kop? I think it will be another tight game on Thursday with defences once more on top, but I expect Liverpool to just edge through to the semi-finals with a 1-0 or 2-1 win."