Forlan blurs Pool’s Euro vision

LIVERPOOL failed to gain any reward for their valiant efforts in making the long-haul trip to Madrid as a familiar foe gave Atletico a 1-0 victory in their Europa League semi-final first leg last night.

Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan hit a scrappy winner in only the ninth minute but the tie is far from over and even without an away goal Rafael Benitez’s side will be optimistic of overturning the result at Anfield next week.

Liverpool struggled to create chances with captain Steven Gerrard’s drive into the side netting was the closest they came, though Yossi Benayoun had a goal disallowed following a marginal offside flag.