Reina: ‘Fans can make the difference’

LIVERPOOL FC shot-stopper Pepe Reina has highlighted the fans as their main weapon towards equalling and overthrowing the deficit they suffered in Russia in their 2-0 first leg defeat.

Liverpool are aware of Zenit’s upper hand tonight, as they will be looking for a crucial away goal which would mean that the Reds would have to score at least four goals to keep them in contention.

Reina is well aware of the challenge, and in an interview with the club’s official website he had this to say.

“It’s up to both, players and fans. We need to show character from the beginning, especially in the first 15-20 minutes to get the people behind us, but then they will lift us in the weak moments as they always do.”

Reina was also keen to discuss how being a night game will have a positive effect on the fans.

“The fact it is a night game makes it different. Supporters come to the game more excited. It’s difficult to explain, but there’s a different kind of atmosphere. There is no doubt that the fans can make a difference.”

The Spaniard also touched on how the uphill battle will affect the mentality of the players.

“The mentality of the players is different when you go into a game like this because you know you have to win by two or three goals. We have to make sure that we don’t concede and if we do, we’ll have to score four goals rather than three. I am really optimistic. It’s a very difficult score to turn around but with the fans behind us I think the mentality will be spot on.”

Liverpool face Zenit St. Petersburg tonight at Anfield (kick-off at 8.05pm) with the Reds hoping to write another page of famous European folklore into their history books.
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