THE KID from HUYTON

In one of the best finals witnessed for years West Ham United led 3-2 against overwhelming favourites Liverpool. Having given all to come back from two goals down Rafa Benitez's team were literally out on their feet. None more than Captain Steven Gerrard who was in searing pain from both cramp and a crippling hamstring.

Held in legendary status by Koppites after his heroic performance in the 2005 Champions league final victory against AC Milan, a badly limping Gerrard finally appeared human after all. It was his typically barnstorming equaliser that brought Liverpool level, but a late strike from Hammers defender Paul Konchesky looked to have ensured the cup was on its way back to Upton Park for the first time since 1980.

Unlike the footballing aristocrats of Milan's Maldini, Kaka and Crespo, West Ham were within a referee's whistle of seeing off Liverpool. Ninety minutes finished and the Millennium held its collective breath as the tannoy announced another four of injury time. Eastenders excitement was at fever pitch as the claret and blue ribbons were placed precariously early upon the trophy.

Suddenly from fully thirty-five yards out the ball dropped onto the right foot of Steven Gerrard. Hardly able to stand, let alone shoot, he somehow managed to find the power to unleash a devastating volley that exploded into West Ham's goal.
3-3, Istanbul revisited.

The Liverpool Captain was mobbed by teammates and resurfaced to salute the dancing mass of red on the terraces before pointing out the name on his shirt. It was one the supporters will never forget.
Gerrard:
The kid from Huyton had saved them again.