Liverpool 2-1 Crewe Alexandra- the ticket to 4th round

The Carling Cup is vital to blood youngsters. Such has been the case with Rafael Benitez as a host of youngsters made the starting line up for this crucial match. Daniel Agger was handed his debut for the reds and reserve goalkeeper Diego Cavalieri was also given first team action. Daniel Agger's free kick gave Liverpool the lead on the 15 minutes mark. It was a low drive that hit the back of the net past keeper Steve Collis. The equaliser came 10 minutes later from O'Connor who made no mistake to score from close range. The lead was restored on the 58th minute after a brilliant display by Pennant on the flank who served Lucas well to beat Crewe keeper Collis with a header. Later on Torres was introduced, and his lack of form was again clear. He failed to seal the game and score the third Liverpool goal by blasting the shot straight at the keeper.

The win seemed to be a hard fought one for Liverpool. The full time score read in favour of the reds but Liverpool need more accuracy to kill off such games. Even Benitez admitted on Setanta Sports News: "As always in these kinds of games, if you don't score the third goal and finish the game, then things can get a bit nervous". Round 3 is now clear for the reds. Next up is Everton at Goodison Park.