Manager Brendan Rodgers says Liverpool deserved to book their place in the Capital One Cup Final after last night's defeat at Chelsea.
The Northern Irishman was proud with the performance of his players as he praised Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for a number of top-class saves.
"I think we were the better side over the two games, but ultimately you've got to get the place in the final," Rodgers said.
"I think the goalkeeper for them has won them the tie really. Performance-wise, we were outstanding. Again tonight, some of our play was very good and we created chances.
"There weren't going to be many chances in the game for both sides, but certainly in the first half we created enough to maybe get a couple of goals.
"But their 'keeper made some very good saves and ultimately, I think, has won them the tie.
"I sit here with pride. There's disappointment we haven't got through, but Chelsea arrived at the top of their game when they came to Anfield last week and we were outstanding and should have won that game.
"Tonight we were very, very good again. The learning for us is to make the next step - you saw a lot of young players out there working, and now we've got to make the next step and try to go on and win a trophy."
