Liverpool win a reward for being patient says Benitez

By Jeremy Butler

LIVERPOOL (Reuters) - Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez praised his side's patience as the five-times European champions scored twice in the final five minutes against Inter Milan to take charge of their Champions League tie.

With the Italian side reduced to 10 men after Marco Materazzi was sent off in the first half, late goals from Dirk Kuyt and Steven Gerrard in a 2-0 win on Tuesday eased the pressure on Benitez who has come under fire after some lacklustre recent performances.

"I had confidence we would score because the team was playing well," he told reporters.

"We kept trying to pass the ball and create chances. We knew it could happen and scoring two goals at the end is much better.

Benitez side-stepped questions on how the result will affect his future at Liverpool.

"I am very pleased with the result," he added. We needed to win as a team because we wanted to progress and as a manager, I am happy.

"We knew it was important not to concede. One of the main things you want is a clean sheet.

"It will be difficult for Inter but also they are a good team so we must be careful."