Thursday, May 1 2008 -- For Liverpool, the UEFA Champions League was the last straw that could've rescued their season. But a painful defeat to Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final tie at Stamford Bridge has withered European hopes and manager Rafael Benitez is not at all pleased with this.

Benitez remains defiant of course but then again that is probably a mask to eclipse the pain and frustration within. Rafa states:

"I think think we were very close.

"We were playing well, especially in the second half. With the first goal we were due, I think we had two chances.

"In extra time we were much better - but after we conceded the second goal, and the third goal, finished the game."

But anyway, you have got to accede that on the night, it was Chelsea who played the better football and deservedly won the semi-final tie over the two legs. As for Rafa and Liverpool, as they say, better luck next time.