CARLING CUP: Liverpool Defeat Chelsea, 2-0, to Advance to the Semi-Finals

Liverpool advanced to the semi-finals of the Carling Cup with a 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

Both Andre Villas-Boas and Kenny Dalglish used several of their regulars in the match, but the Blues simply couldn't execute.

Liverpool got on the board in the 58th minute, when Jordan Henderson delivered an excellent pass to Craig Bellamy, who then crossed the ball to Maxi Rodriguez inside the Chelsea penalty area. The Argentine veteran knocked it in with his left foot.

The Reds would strike again five minutes later. Defender Martin Kelly headed in a well-placed cross from Bellamy along the left wing, and Liverpool were in full control.

It was an emotional game for Bellamy. The Welsh star was in tears before kick-off as the match paid tribute to the late Gary Speed.

The score could have been worse for the Blues. Liverpool forward Andy Carroll, who has had his struggles this season, had his penalty kick saved by Ross Turnbull in the frirst half.

Chelsea took 10 shots, with five on goal, while Liverpool also had five shots on goal, and seven overall. The Blues narrowly won the possession battle, 53-47.

Chelsea fans exited the stadium before the final whistle, after witnessing a disappointing performance. It was the fifth loss in nine games for Chelsea.

The pressure is on new manager Villas-Boas.