"We deserved to win the game and it was a special goal from Gerrard," said the Liverpool boss.
"We showed great character after Villa were given a penalty and we kept going forward and got the goal. It was important for us to win the first game.
"I know we created a lot of chances but you have to say the Villa goalkeeper was really good and he was the man of the match.
"I thought Torres did well and worked hard and his understanding with Kuyt was really good."