Liverpool Thrash Villarreal To Keep England’s Hope of European Silverware Alive

It was a memorable night at Anfield Stadium, as Liverpool reached their first European final since losing the 2007 Champions League final to AC Milan. The match was less dramatic than the quarter-final win over Klopp's former team Borussia Dortmund, the players seemed encouraged by an electric rendition of "You'll Never Walk Alone" before kick-off as home fans paid tribute to those who died in the Hillsborough disaster, following last week's inquest verdict where 96 fans were found to be unlawfully killed. Barely seven minutes of play, the first goal came after Nathaniel Clyne crossed to the back post and Firmino put it back into the danger area. Sturridge missed the ball, but Bruno nudged into his own net. Boosted by the goal, the hosts pressed harder on the visitors with James Milner, Philippe Coutinho and Lallana indefatigable in midfield turning things around. Added to the poise offered by the returning Emre Can, who has been out injured for the past three weeks, and the trickery of Firmino, the visitors could not cope. Sturridge, who has finally been able to enjoy a run of games after a shocking injury record, scored what appeared to be his most important Liverpool goal to put Klopp's side ahead in the tie. Lallana then sparked more renditions of Liverpool's famous anthem when he tucked in from close range after more enterprise from Firmino.