Rafa relief ahead of break as Gerrard answers call

RAFA BENITEZ has experienced nothing but anxiety during the opening two weeks of the season yet the Liverpool manager is resigned for more bouts of trepidation during the forthcoming international break.

Three points after a hard-fought victory over a spirited Bolton Wanderers side ought to have brought some relief to the Spaniard and his players after a worrying start.

Yet a smile was still missing from the face of Steven Gerrard, captain and match-winner at the Reebok Stadium, as he expressed mixed emotions that the team will have to wait until Burnley’s visit to Anfield on September 12 for the opportunity to record back-to-back league wins for the first time this season.