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LIVERPOOL. — Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers hopes that his side’s 4-0 victory over Everton will give them a psychological advantage in the race to qualify for the Champions League soccer. The Reds claimed an emphatic win over Everton at Anfield on Tuesday night, their biggest over their city rivals since November 1982, thanks to a brace from Daniel Sturridge and a goal apiece for Luis Suarez and captain Steven Gerrard.

It helped Liverpool consolidate fourth place in the Premier League table, moving them four points clear of their city rivals and leaving Rodgers optimistic about their chances of a top-four finish.

“All wins are important, especially against your rivals,” Rodgers said.
“Psychologically it was a big win and one that gives confidence and belief to the squad. We just have to put the foot to the floor for the rest of the season.

“I think we’ve shown all season we are going to be in contention. We’ve shown a wonderful team spirit and we’ve had players missing, but we’ve set the team up so we’re not reliant on one player.

“It’s my first win in a derby, but I am happier for the players and the supporters. I’ll be more delighted in May if we’re in the top four.”
Rodgers also hailed the performance of England striker Sturridge after he took his tally for the season to 16 goals in all competitions.

Sturridge missed the chance to complete a hat-trick when he blazed a penalty over the crossbar and seemed to react angrily to being substituted with 18 minutes left, but Rodgers said that his reaction was borne out of frustration.

“Daniel’s two finishes were sublime. He was a threat throughout the game and looks one every time he plays,” Rodgers said.
“We had to cut the risk of Everton scoring, so we brought him off. I felt the change balanced the team back up and there was no problem with Daniel. It was a brilliant performance from him.

“I think he was a little frustrated after the penalty and he apologised afterwards.
“If the manager decides to take you off, it’s not because you are playing poorly. Sometimes it’s tactical.”

Everton manager Roberto Martinez accepted that his team’s performance was a disappointment, but disagreed with Rodgers over the significance of the result. — AFP.