A win's a win's a win.

16^th September – Liverpool Vs Debrecen (Europe)

An unchanged starting XI from Mr Benitez took to the hallowed Anfield turf against Debrecen, who incidentally are the only champions of their country in Group E.

Despite lacking the sharper aspects of their game, and the ruthlessness needed against stubborn sides, Liverpool dominated the opening stages of this encounter. A control illustrated through the home team’s ball possession of 75% in the opening 25 minutes.

With Steven Gerrard playing in a deeper role, a position he’ll assume more frequently until summer signing Alberto Aquilani regains fitness, the onus was on the men in front of him to convert chances.

In the style of the fictional big bad wolf, the Reds huffed and puffed, eventually blowing down Debrecen’s front-door on the stroke of half-time, allowing for half-time cups of tea and toilet visits, to be made with an air of relief.

Albert Riera and Gerrard should have done better with their first half chances, but Dirk Kuyt’s instinct, enabled him to beat the opposing defenders to a parried Torres shot, to poke the ball past the goalkeeper.

The ground Kuyt made to score epitomised the determination and desire he shows in each exhaustive performance. What’s all the more impressive about the Dutchman is his knack of scoring decisive goals, such as the last minute winner against Standard Liege during Champions League qualification in 2008, the brace he scored last season against Wigan, and the two penalties that sealed 3 points in the Merseyside derby in October 2007.

You don’t score the 3^rd highest tally of European goals at Liverpool by accident, and tonight’s important goal ensured 3 points to begin European football of 2009-2010, and saved Benitez from turning a shade of crimson in post-match interviews.

It was disappointing watching ITV’s first half analysis, which focussed on the fact Liverpool led by just the solitary goal, and not a hat full. Andy Townsend is often negative towards Rafa, but even Steve McManaman, a boyhood idol of mine, failed to provide positive comments on the commanding and confident performance from his ex-employers.

The second half brought more authority from the home side, despite the goal tally remaining the same. Yossi Benayoun and Glen Johnson showcased their attacking worth, while a venomous volley from the captain whistled over the bar, to the dismay of an expectant Kop.

Throughout Benitez’s Anfield reign, he’s used tactic nous to breakdown opposition, especially at home, with teams playing for a draw from the first minute. This game was no different. If anything, the proverbial parking of the team bus is complimentary, as they realise they lack the required firepower and ability score; play attractive football and win the game.

This is not to say that Debrecen didn’t have their moments. Reina was forced into tipping a shot over his bar while the scores were still level, while a heart in the mouth moment occurred when Coulibaly had only the Liverpool no.1 in front of him but failed to capitalise.

But, as Rafa said, “winning is all that matters”, a statement echoed by managers after a narrow victory, as often as a Wayne Rooney temper tantrum following his premature exit from a football game. I’d gladly take 5 more 1-0 victories in Group E