'I think, they got the break with the first goal with a deflection,' said Ferguson.
"We expected Liverpool to play the way they did but we were far too slow in our build-up and when we went behind we didn't improve on that."
'There was nothing in the game in the first half but when the goal was scored it opened the game up.
But the deciding factor in the second half was their goalkeeper, who was absolutely fantastic. The goalkeeper won the game.'
Ferguson urged the team to concentrate efforts on the two competitions left open:
'The players are all disappointed because the priority is to try to win a trophy. But the Premier League and Champions League are the priorities.'
Ferguson found time to congratulate Houllier on his victory and defended him from his critics.
'I don't know where the criticism comes from but it is undeserved because the job he has done is fantastic.'
Ferguson turned his attention to Wednesday night:
"We have a big game against Leeds on Wednesday night, as well as two more games to come in the Champions League. We're in the quarter-finals and we still have a lot to play for."
Subscribe to the Red Issue magazine on-line:
Telephone Orders:
Phone: 0870 8720200 quoting Product Ref: 1065/631698
Lines open Monday to Friday 09-00 to 17-30 hrs