Liverpool Bids Europa Farewell,as Atletico Sets Hamburg Date With Fulham

Liverpool FC has just summed up one of their worst seasons in recent times. After losing out prematurely on the Champions League progress, the club further disappointed the fans by an exit from the Europa after the semi-final stage..

On the other hand, an established mid-table club, Fulham, came across all odds in their encounter at Craven Cottage and although both the teams ended their night on the same scoreline of 2-1, the away goal disadvantage finally made sure that Liverpool FC have really nothing left to cheer about this season.

The course the games took in both the games was similar, with Hamburg notching up a lead within 22 minutes of the start through Petric and Fulham almost similar to repeating their valour against Juventus struck back with two goals within six minutes (70' & 76') through Sean Davies and Zoltan Gera respectively. Fulham have been very good in "parking the bus" all season and they did no different after obtaining their lead as they shut-out Hamburg from what could have a home ground Final for the german side.
At Anfield also, the anti-climax was awaiting to follow, after Alberto Aquilani gave the lead to Liverpool in the 44th minute and took the game to extra time. Yossi benayoun then struck for the Reds on the 95th minute as Anfield erupted in joy..that was however short-lived. Near the 103rd minute Diego Forlan made it 2-1 for the visitors and the defensive short comings that ruined so many champions League encounter for the Reds was again at blame as the visitors advanced to the finals, ending the Reds last shot at silverware.

As sensational Fulham have been this season under Roy Hodgeson, Liverpool have been just their perfect opposite. Now with glory within easy reach Fulham have a great chance to end what easily has been their best season in the premiership.

At Liverpool though, the question that remains is "WHAT NEXT?"..Although it can be taken that with an away victory versus the already relegated Hull in the last game of the season, and with Portsmouth having lost their suit, another Shot at Europa is the most likely destination for the Reds next season along with the challenge for the Premiership of course.
However, after his last interview, Benitez has all but expressed his ultimate desperation at the clubs management's inability to assure him long-term future at Liverpool FC. With the Juve interest around the corner and the further criticism that this Europa exit is sure to bring, it could also mean him leaving his present employers for the Turin club, a move that could be more out of desperation and frustration than anything else. Surely, with brainless owners in H & G and long stretches of  shambolic  performances on  the pitch, Rafa's patience may well burn out..Now whether that would be good or bad for the club or whether it would bring a tear to the supporters is a different issue altogether.

The evening of 29th April 2009 has however re-inforced the established notion about which club has been the Biggest Disappointment and which one the Outstanding achievers in this season of English Football, both in the Premier League and Europe..