Liverpool 2 Sunderland 1: We hung in there, admits Brendan Rodgers
Liverpool 2 Sunderland 1: Brendan Rodgers reflects on a "magnificent" victory for the Merseysiders
Brendan Rodgers reflected on a “magnificent” victory after watching Liverpool edge past Sunderland to move to within one point of Premier League leaders Chelsea.
Captain Steven Gerrard fired the Reds into the lead in the 39th minute at Anfield with a curling free-kick.
We hung in there and it was a magnificent three points for us
Brendan Rodgers
And Daniel Sturridge made it 2-0 three minutes after half-time when his deflected left-footed effort beat Vito Mannone.
Ki-sung Yueng’s 76th-minute header pulled one back for the Black Cats, but the hosts clung on to secure the three points and continue their title charge.
“It was always going to be a really difficult for us,” Rodgers told Sky Sports. “I think the perception now of us is that we’re going to score five or six goals in every game.
“We just had to be patient and hope that our quality came through. But our work-rate and intensity was outstanding and obviously we scored two excellent goals. Once we got the first goal, our fluency was better.”
He added: “We switched off from the corner, it was a poor goal to concede and it gave them some oxygen for the last 15 minutes of the game.
“But good teams stay with it and we hung in there and it was a magnificent three points for us.”
Rodgers also paid tribute to the Anfield faithful and called for their full support ahead of Sunday’s clash against Tottenham on Merseyside.
“At Anfield it feels like they’re very proud of their teams,” said Rodgers. “Tonight we got plenty of support.
“The supporters identify when to lift the players and they certainly did that. It’s a wonderful arena and it’s a real privilege to work here.
“Seven wins in a row is an incredible effort in this league. You’re always looking to be at the top but we can’t complain.
“We’re one point behind now. We’ll get ready and recover for a big game at the weekend.”
