Comeback King

As captain of one of the top clubs in Europe’s most elite football competition I wasn’t accustomed to being in a losing position. If anything had to be done to turn the 3 goal disadvantage around it would be my responsibility to instigate the fire. The manager stands near the door resting his back to the wall, his eyes and shoulders droop. Clearly he is as disturbed with the condition at the interval as the environment in the dressing room or for that matter the entire stadium. Liverpool FC isn’t just “another club” and granted that our day’s opponents, AC Milan, weren’t meant to be a walk in the park, the scoreboard reading 3-0 in their favor was definitely flattering.
Our coaches stand before us without uttering a word. The pin drop silence is almost uncomfortable. I felt the urge to speak even if the manager doesn’t say anything. It wasn’t a time for emotional speeches but I had to respect the situation we were put in. It required my leadership to get us through the remaining 45 minutes, to not only last it out but to try and win the cup. Not every team has the honor of playing in front of a full stadium in the final of the Champions League. I remember speaking with conviction. As I looked each of my teammates in the eye, I saw belief. We knew we could win and 45 minutes was enough to turn our fate around.
Walking out the tunnel was enervating. I could hear the chanting long before I could see the opening to the grass. I could hear “Liverpool, Liverpool” from thousands of loyal fans who travelled a great distance to support their favorite team. They would not stop chanting even if defeat was inevitable. I couldn’t stop trying, I had to give it my all, I had to try my best to salvage the victory. The moment was inspiring, exciting and provided the perfect burst of adrenaline to stimulate me and the team.
It was an inspiring performance from our team. No doubt AC Milan had played their hearts out but at the end of the day we wanted it more than them. The victory by Liverpool FC over AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League Final in Istanbul is considered as one of the best comebacks in footballing history. I am glad to have been a part of it and to have lifted the trophy at the award ceremony. I am the captain of Liverpool FC, Steven Gerard.