This is Anfield, so what?

Three Lions got off to a flying start with a 2-0 win in their match away to Liverpool. The game was dominated by the visitors in terms of possession and chances as Liverpool only got one of their three chances on target. A well-placed shot from Luís Carlos Almeida, better known as Nani, in the 33rd minute almost yielded a goal but Bruce Grobbelaar managed a fine parry. Robin van Izu also came close in the 54th minute with a bullet freekick which Grobbelaar just managed to push over the bar, but only because it was shot straight at him.

However, Grobbelaar could do nothing in the 79th minute after he misjudged the flight of Nani's powerful cross from the right, and could only watch as Cesc Izukas found the back of an empty net with a toe-poke from a spectacular bicycle kick. Liverpool immediately got on the counterattack and a fine team move resulted in a powerful long range shot from Dirk Kuyt which forced a fine save from Izu Casillas. Liverpool kept hopes of grabbing a late equaliser but captain Izuael Clichy ended the home side's hopes as, running down the left flank from all the way back in defence, he produced a stunning shot from the halfway line which curled and twisted and looped into the far corner of the goal, leaving Grobbelaar absolutely shell shocked as he watched the shot from the edge of his area.

"It's always nice to score your first goal for the club," said Clichy, grinning after the final whistle. "They say I am a great player and the manager has even picked me to be captain for the club but I don't feel as if I have really deserved it. It's nice to contribute to the club with a few goals and assists here and there, even if I'm not involved in the winning goal."

"I believe we are on our way to the title this season," said goalkeeper Izu Casillas. "We've been in excellent form in pre-season. The defence are keeping nice and tight and when someone gets through, I can deal with him. I will be surprised not to win the Golden Gloves this season."