The game refused to slow. Liverpool kept pushing, their attacks relentless, their movements sharp. The crowd, sensing something imminent, roared with every surge forward.
Gerrard hurried to take the corner. He set the ball down, wiped his forehead, and scanned the penalty area. He knew they were close.
He whipped it in—another wicked delivery, dipping and swerving into the heart of the 18 yard box.
Bodies clashed.
Suárez wriggled free, his eyes locked on the ball. He twisted his body, attempting an acrobatic volley—but he Missed!
The ball bounced through the crowded area, skipping dangerously along the six-yard box.
Jamie Carter: [It's still loose! Who's there?]
Scrambling defenders and desperate attackers lunged for it. The ball deflected off an Alkmaar defender's knee, rolling straight into Skrtel's path.
Skrtel swung his foot and made contact!
Rob Townsend: [Skrtel—]
Blocked again!
