Video: Sander Westerveld reminisces on penalty heroics in 2001 League Cup final | OneFootball

On this day 20 years ago, Sander Westerveld was the hero for Liverpool as they won the League Cup final against Birmingham at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

Westerveld saved two penalties in the shoot-out to seal a 5-4 win for Liverpool on penalties after drawing 1-1 in regulation time with Birmingham. Robbie Fowler had given Liverpool the lead after 30 minutes, but Birmingham levelled the scores with a penalty in the 90th minute.

It then went to penalties after extra-time, with Westerveld saving from both Martin Grainger and Andy Johnson, with the latter being the action that won the cup for Liverpool. Westerveld sprung off his line to his left to parry away Johnson’s spot-kick before dropping to his knees in delight and being crowded by his teammates in celebration.

The Dutchman says he was well-known for his penalty saving exploits before the final, so it was not a surprise to him that he was able to come up with two important saves. However, he is quick to add that the standard of Liverpool’s penalties from the outfield players was outstanding to go along with his contribution.

Speaking to The Liverpool Echo, as shown below, Westerveld opened up on his memories from the day.

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