Wednesday 11 February 2015 08:24, UK
Liverpool assistant manager Colin Pascoe admits their 3-2 win against Spurs was vital - and has urged them to replicate Tuesday's display in their remaining fixtures.
Mario Balotelli’s first Premier League strike for the club edged a hotly-contested encounter on Merseyside on Tuesday night as both Harry Kane and Mousa Dembele levelled the game after Lazar Markovic and Steven Gerrard had given the hosts the lead on two occasions.
And, speaking in place of manager Brendan Rodgers, who had to catch a flight immediately after the game, Pascoe challenge the Reds to replicate their resilient performance.
"We knew tonight would be a tough game but it was very important that we got the three points to keep closing the gap," Pascoe said.
"It was probably a great game to watch for spectators. The way everything was going, you knew we would always create chances.
“Daniel [Sturridge], coming back, is always a threat in behind. The way he makes the runs, he was unfortunate not to get a second penalty.
"As we talked about in the team meeting, we needed to win tonight, to get closer and edge closer.
"Our next game in the league is at Southampton and we'll be looking to do exactly the same thing again - get three points and keep closing the gap.
"We've always been trying to get into the top four - that was the main thing. We're still in the FA Cup and Europa League. The goals at Liverpool are always to try to achieve and get as much as you can."
Our next game in the league is at Southampton and we'll be looking to do exactly the same thing again - get three points and keep closing the gap.
Pascoe felt Balotelli’s 83rd-minute winner was thoroughly deserved after the striker recovered from a series of setbacks in training to make a goalscoring return to the team.
"Mario always works hard in training,” Pascoe added. “He has been ill recently and he has had some knocks on his foot.
"It's testament to him that he kept going and he deserved the winning goal in the end. He is immensely happy. If you get the winner at Anfield, I'm sure he's happy.
"Mario knew he would have a part to play tonight and he certainly did."
Balotelli declined interviews after the match but took to social media to have his say.
"Great game guys!!! This smile is ONLY for those that always Belive and support me. Thank you. Forza Liverpool. But now head down and keep working hard. Tonight is past," was the message posted on Instagram alongside a picture of a beaming Balotelli.
See all of Tuesday's Premier League goals on Sky Sports News HQ from midnight - or on Good Morning Sports Fans from 6am.
