"We didn't play well and made too many mistakes defensively but the day was all about Robbie Fowler and it was fantastic to see the supporters applauding him," said Rafa Benitez.
"It would have been perfect had Robbie scored in front of the Kop and it was a pity we got a penalty just after he had left the pitch. I wanted Robbie to take the applause from the crowd and that is why I took him off and it was unfortunate."