Benitez must look at PL differently

Benitez made Liverpool the most successful club in Europe over the past five years. Liverpool won the Champions League once, reached the final another time and have been challenging other elite teams in the later stages. Liverpool now command great respect on the European stage by their sheer performances.

Before the kick-off, critics said Benitez would be satisfied with a draw as Liverpool had an away-goal advantage over the nine-time European champions. Also that the Reds had a do-or-die title showdown against Manchester United so Benitez would keep some of his first team players for the match.

But on the contrary, Liverpool played attacking football and controlled the game against Real Madrid. Without Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who came to the rescue of his team time and again, the goal tally would have been much higher.

The Champions League brought the very best out of Benitez's side, and his stars, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, were marvellous on the night. On his 100th continental appearance, the captain scored twice and the second goal was one of the finest ever witnessed by an enchanted Kop.

Torres, who marked his return from injury with a goal, was breathtaking. The striker played in nine Madrid derbies during his time in Spain, scored just one goal for Atletico and never tasted victory over the big rivals.

Even substitute Andrea Dossena, who the Kop saw as the weakest link, scored his first goal since joining the club this season.

It could have been perfect if Lucas Leiva, who the Kop always moan whenever his name is |mentioned, had scored a goal |as well.

Liverpool and the European trophy seems to be a match made in heaven. The victory proved that Benitez is rightly dubbed the Euro master as he orchestrated another awesome triumph for Liverpool. The five-time European champions |seem more determined and happier when they play on the European stage than in the Premier league. Maybe the manager planted that attitude into the players.

Now it is back to reality for the Kings of Europe. To keep their Premiership title dreams alive, Liverpool had to win the crucial match at Old Trafford to end their 19-year drought.

No one questioned Benitez's approach in European games as Liverpool are the team no-one wants to draw. But for the Premiership the manager's approach might be part of the problem.

Perhaps Benitez should look at the Premiership as a Cup competition that takes place every weekend with the second leg starting after New Year.