AZ Alkmaar slowed it down. Martens took the ball in midfield, shielding it from Allen's press. He rolled it back to Elm, who clipped a pass to Benjamin.
The young winger didn't sprint this time. He held it, drawing Suso in, then tapped it back to Maher.
Peter's voice softened. [They're managing this well, AZ Alkmaar. Eating up seconds]
John agreed. [Smart. Very smart. Liverpool's desperate, but they can't get near it]
The clock hit 92.
Liverpool won it back. Henderson snapped a pass to Suso, who darted forward, slipping past Henriksen. He crossed low, aiming for Sturridge, but Viergever slid in, sending the ball spinning out for another corner.
Peter's voice rose again. [Last chance, maybe?]
John's tone was tense. [Got to be now, Peter. Got to be]
Gerrard stood over the corner. The 18 yard box was packed. Reina stayed back, but every outfield player was in there, red shirts against white. The whistle blew. Gerrard floated it—high, hanging.
