Robson Reflects on Liverpool Game
By Matthew Jones
May 16 2004
Newcastle United manager Sir Bobby Robson reflects on a well-earned point at Anfield yesterday, which secured a place in next season's UEFA Cup. Shola Ameobi gave the visiting supporters an early lead to celebrate, but Michael Owen equalised for the home side in the second half.
Robson said:
"We knew we had to get something from this match to do the job ourselves, even if we are thankful for some help from Manchester United, who won at Aston Villa.
"We have had to play four games in 10 days - nobody else has had to do that - and we were on our knees at the end. I do not think we could have played much longer.
"We had weary legs. It has been a tough time and we're bushed, for sure. And we have done it despite losing so many players lately through injury.
"In the end it was a dramatic day and we were able to give something back to our wonderful support. We are grateful to them because those travelling fans have only seen us win twice away this season. That is inexplicable. It has been painful to watch.
"If we had picked up a few more wins away we would have had this place, and probably fourth spot, tied up a long time ago. But we have drawn our last two away games at Southampton and here, and in the end those two points have got us into this position and back into Europe."
Robson was also full of praise for Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, and said:
"I wish Gerrard would have gone off at half time and was pleased the final whistle went!
"Gerrard is a great passer and it was a wonderful pass to Michael Owen for the equaliser, it was the only time they got behind us. It was a great goal between two great players. I just hope Michael can get a few like that for England in the summer."