Benitez: Reina improving every day

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez hailed Jose Reina as “one of the best goalkeepers in the world” after a singular piece of brilliance helped the side to a 2-0 victory in the 212th Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

Leading through Joseph Yobo’s 12th-minute own goal from a deflected Javier Mascherano shot, the Reds were coming under increasing pressure in the second half.

With 20 minutes remaining Reina pulled off one of the saves of the season when he dived low to his left to keep out Tim Cahill’s header and then sprung to his feet to block Marouane Fellaini’s follow-up.

Both Benitez and Everton boss David Moyes agreed it was a turning point as, with 10 minutes to go, Dirk Kuyt made the game safe by scoring from close range after substitute Albert Riera’s shot was half-saved by Tim Howard.

“When we signed him we knew he was a good keeper and he is improving here,” said Benitez of Reina.

“Xavi Valero, our goalkeeping coach, is doing a really good job with him and you can see him improving every day.

“For me he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world and (yesterday) he showed why. It was a great save. In this situation he was amazing.”