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Gerrard - Bellamy to thank

Image: Steven Gerrard: Full of praise for Craig Bellamy after Liverpool's Carling Cup triumph

Steven Gerrard recognised the contribution of Craig Bellamy after Liverpool beat Man City in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup.

Liverpool skipper says Welshman made difference against City

Steven Gerrard recognised the contribution of Craig Bellamy after Liverpool beat Manchester City 3-2 on aggregate in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup. The Reds booked their place in the final against Cardiff by playing out a 2-2 draw with City at Anfield on Wednesday - to maintain their advantage after a 1-0 win at the Etihad Stadium a fortnight ago. As he was then, Gerrard was on target from the penalty spot again, equalising after Nigel de Jong's opener, before Craig Bellamy, a former City striker, scored after Edin Dzeko had put the visitors to Anfield 2-1 up on the night. Liverpool last reached a domestic final in 2006 when they beat West Ham to the FA Cup in Cardiff, and the 26th February meeting will be their first Wembley appearance since 1996. "It's a great feeling, it's been a while," Gerrard told Sky Sports. "Since playing at Cardiff in 2006, it's been too long for this club. I'm delighted for everyone, especially the fans."

Brave

Gerrard was in no doubt who his side's star man was, with Bellamy hitting the decisive goal after City goalkeeper Joe Hart had produced a stunning one-man show to keep Liverpool at bay. "Craig was the difference," Gerrard added. "His pace was always a threat and we know that if a chance falls to him he can finish. It's a big thanks to him. "We had to be positive and brave. Man City have so much quality and our decision to attack them paid off. "Joe is a big character but I don't feel sorry for him. He's a top keeper and he will play in many finals. But it's our turn now and we have to go and lift that trophy."
Good omens
Bellamy will get to face his hometown club in the final, as well as the side he played for last season. "The omens were looking good going into tonight after I saw Cardiff go through," the striker said. "I was delighted for them and this couldn't be a better final for me. "Cardiff means so much to me. It's funny how football can work out at times."

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