Vladimir Smicer scores decisive penalty in Liverpool triumph
It will be a long time before memories fade over such an incredible football match: Liverpool vs. AC Milan in their Champions League final on Wednesday. After taking a three goal drubbing in the first half, Liverpool roared back with three goals in just six minutes to complete their return from the dead. One of those who scored was Czech player Vladimir Smicer, who struck in both regulation time - and penalties - to help Liverpool take the match.
Back at halftime there were probably few who believed Liverpool could come back. Striker Milan Baros:
"I'd be making things up if I said that at half-time I thought we could turn this one around from 3 - nil."
But, Liverpool completed an incredible comeback and somehow survived relentless attacking by AC Milan. Both Czechs placed well, but Milan Baros was eventually substituted. Following extra time it came down to penalties, it was Smicer who stepped up to take Liverpool's final spot kick at 2-2. His shot found the back of the net, while Shevchenko's was blocked by Liverpool goalie Jerzy Dudek. Victory was complete. As the team began celebrations here's what Smicer had to say:
"There's no question it was the most important game of my career. Unbelievable, an unbelievable dream."