Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish feels winning the Carling Cup can launch them into a new era.

Whilst he accepted the euphoria at winning a trophy could inspire his players to more, the Scot insists nothing will be achieved without a strong team ethic.

"I don't think anyone who has ever won a trophy has come away from it saying they didn't enjoy it," said Dalglish.

"If you do something and you enjoy it, you are going to want more of it. It is logical. The idea six years ago was not to go six years without winning a trophy.

"We are where we are now because of the work everyone has done, not just me.

"The owners, the supporters, the players, everyone has chipped in. We have said that all along. The closer we are, the stronger we will be together."

In the immediate aftermath of the game, Steven Gerrard admitted to feeling mixed emotions, telling BBC1: "It's always cruel when it comes to penalties, but there has to be a loser.

"It was always going to be that one of us was sad and one celebrating. I've got mixed emotions. Obviously I'm delighted to win the cup for our supporters, but I feel for Anthony and Cardiff.

"It doesn't matter what I say to him - he's going to be down. I'll be there for him and all the family will be behind him."