Owen repays Houllier faith

Report: Liverpool 3-1 Leeds

Gerard Houllier insisted his surprise decision to play Michael Owen from the start against Leeds was not a gamble.

Owen was restored to the starting line-up following a three-week injury lay-off as Houllier desperately fought for a first win in four Premiership games.

And the manager's faith was repaid as the England striker scored the opening goal in a 3-1 win.

"It was not a gamble. I never take gambles with the health of my players," Houllier said.

"My players were aware of the importance of that win, and they responded accordingly.

"Now we are strong enough to go on a decent run of results. We are about six points short of what I feel we should be - and now we must recover that lost ground."

Winter stands by decision

Houllier also saw Danny Murphy mark his return from injury with a goal, though his free-kick was a controversial one.

Murphy's effort was allowed to stand, despite three Liverpool players - including Owen - being in an offside position.

Referee Jeff Winter ruled none had been interfering with play and Houllier conceded: "I can understand Peter Reid's view on that second goal.

"I would have been disappointed myself. But it was a turning point, and it certainly helped us."

He added: "I felt we had more chances and deserved the victory."

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