Carroll lifts Liverpool´s spirits

Andy Carroll was in a spirited mood as Liverpool ended their pre-season campaign with a 2-0 win over Valencia at Anfield on Saturday.

The 35 million pound striker delighted the home support with a tenacious performance against the La Liga side.

Carroll opened the scoring in the sixth minute when Valencia captain David Albeda’s weak back-pass allowed him to finish at the second time of asking.

The 22-year-old then displayed his reckless side as he was booked for a late challenge on Adil Rami.

Valencia, who finished third in last season’s La Liga, rarely threatened Liverpool’s goal.

Substitute Sofiane Feghouli came closest to an equaliser seconds after coming on.

The hosts doubled their lead in the 90th minute when Dirk Kuyt was credited with scrambling Joe Cole’s free-kick over the line.

But replays suggested Sotirios Kyrgiakos had the final touch.

Kenny Dalglish’s side held on to complete their pre-season preparations with a 2-0 victory.

Liverpool start their Premier League campaign at home to Sunderland on Saturday.