Pepe Reina Powerless to prevent Mason’s opener, but did well whenever called upon thereafter.
Glen Johnson Hit the underside of the bar in the 2nd minute with a fine effort. Defended well, while attacking in spurts. Held his nerve in the shootout.
Martin Skrtel Began a tad nervously, perhaps surprised by Kenny Miller’s propensity for dropping deep. Recovered well, and grabbed Liverpool’s crucial equaliser on the hour.
Daniel Agger Composed as ever, though ceded possession cheaply a few times in the first half. Replaced by Carragher late on.
Jose Enrique A little slow to react for Mason’s goal, and his use of the ball in attacking areas was a little predictable.
Steven Gerrard Full of drive in midfield early on, and kept things ticking over with a display of control, rather than explosiveness. Saw his penalty saved by Tom Heaton in the shootout.
Charlie Adam Wayward at times, but was one of few Liverpool players confident enough to shoot from outside the penalty area. Blazed over in the shootout.
Jordan Henderson Saw plenty of the ball, and took up some good positions. Let down by a reluctance to take a risk when he did, however. A poor start to the second half saw him replaced by Bellamy before the hour.
Luis Suarez At times careless in his use of the ball, but lively throughout. Headed against the post in the build up to Liverpool’s leveller, but not one of his best afternoons.
Stewart Downing Prominent early on, and looked lively and confident. Unable to find the telling contribution, though not for the want of trying. Awarded the Man of the Match award by the sponsors, deservedly so.
Andy Carroll Won some useful balls in the air, including a crucial one for Skrtel’s equaliser. Link-up play not as strong as in recent weeks, and grew anonymous as the game went on.
SUBSTITUTES
Craig Bellamy (replaced Henderson, 58) All energy and purpose on an emotional day. Curled one good chance off target.
Jamie Carragher (replaced Agger, 87) Came on late for Agger, and slotted into defence with no fuss.
Dirk Kuyt (replaced Carroll, 103) Always the man for the big stage. Emerged from the bench to grab what looked to be the winning goal in typical fashion with a powerful strike. Cleared one Cardiff effort off the line, but was powerless to stop Turner from levelling immediately. Held his nerve from 12 yards.
