Anfield, Wednesday, 7.45pm, live Sky Sports 1
KENNY DALGLISH'S weekend rant was done mainly to charge his troops for tonight's Carling Cup showdown with Man City.
The Reds were awful against Bolton on Saturday but should be up for a titanic tie in front of their home fans that has the carrot of a Wembley spot at the end of it.
Unfortunately for King Kenny and co the obstacle in their path comes in the shape of Premier League leaders Man City.
Liverpool deserved their 1-0 win at the Etihad and with this cushion I can see them holding off the challenge of Roberto Mancini's men and avoid another blast from Kenny's hairdryer.
The Reds are a best 4-9 at BetVictor to hang on to their lead while City are 2-1 at bet365 to go through. Liverpool have fought out some disappointing draws at home this season but remain unbeaten and generally raise their game for the big encounters.
Steven Gerrard hit the only goal at the Etihad and is 7-1 (various) to do so again. He's a decent shout being the penalty taker and Liverpool have been awarded a few in recent weeks. To net at any time it's 12-5 with Paddy Power.
To win in 90 minutes William Hill offer 7-4 Liverpool, 9-5 City with the draw 23-10 at Betfred and Coral.
City will be without striker Mario Balotelli for the second leg of their semi-final against Liverpool at Anfield if they accept a four-match ban for violent conduct.
Mancini is already missing captain Vincent Kompany through suspension as well as inspirational midfielder Yaya Toure and his brother Kolo due to international duty.
Without them it's a big ask and I can Liverpool at least getting the low-scoring draw they need to progress to a final showdown with Cardiff.
The Welsh side are 9-2 with William Hill to win the Cup after beating Crystal Palace on penalties. Liverpool are 8-13 favourites with Man City 9-4.
Recommendations
Draw
(23-10, Betfred)
Gerrard to score
(12-5, Paddy Power)
Under 2.5 goals
(4-6, Ladbrokes)
Resident football tipster at Scotland's most read newspaper, the Daily Record, for over 20 years and proud host of one the best betting communities on the web with daily betting tips.
