Barca admit they were out-fought and out-thought

MADRID, Mar 7 (Reuters) Barcelona admitted they had few answers to Liverpool's tactics and commitment after being knocked out of the Champions League.

The defending champions won 1-0 at Anfield yesterday, with a late goal from Eidur Gudjohnsen, but went out on the away goals rule having lost the first leg 2-1 in the Nou Camp.

Barcelona had been expected to go for broke with their much-vaunted attacking trio of Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto'o leading the charge.

But it was Liverpool who showed a greater desire and cutting edge, bombarding the visitors; goal early on while Barcelona struggled to make headway until midway through the second half.

''They came out very focused, with a strong tactical plan and didn't give us any space so it made it very difficult for us,'' Barca forward Ronaldinho told reporters.

Barcelona have been unable to recreate the formula, that served them so well last season when they pressed opponents all over the pitch, winning the ball back quickly and dominating with quick and incisive passing.

Two of the players so vital to making that system work are Eto'o and Messi. The Cameroon international, who has just returned from five months out with a knee injury, looked short of match practice and barely touched the ball on Tuesday.

Messi, who was out for three months with a foot injury, looked sharp but was well-marshalled on the right flank. Ronaldinho, Xavi and Andres Iniesta were not given the time or space to create much danger until late in the game.

''We controlled the ball and tried to build the play the way we like to. But they were very committed and well organised,'' coach Frank Rijkaard said.

''I can't question the attitude of my players which has been excellent. If any of the players lose this pride we will be weaker and more vulnerable in the future.'' Barca's Portuguese midfielder Deco said the side needed to put the tie behind them quickly. ''In our contract, it doesn't say we have to win, only to work, and that's what we will continue doing,'' he said.

''Going out is a disappointment but not a failure. It's tough, but we have to get over it because on Saturday we play Real Madrid.'' Barcelona, who lost the leadership of the Primera Liga last weekend, are second in the table. They have also made it to the semi-finals of the King's Cup.

REUTERS PDS KP1857