Fowler: Bernabeu chance was special
A 4-2 defeat by Real Madrid could not diminish the pleasure Robbie Fowler took from representing the Liverpool FC Legends at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday.
The former Anfield striker was joined by a host of stars from the Reds' recent past in the Spanish capital to contend their first official match.
It started so promisingly too, with Harry Kewell and Michael Owen each directing headers into the back of the net to open up a healthy two-goal lead.
But the hosts responded, levelling the tie courtesy of two thunderous Roberto Carlos penalties before Jose Emilio Amavisca and Ivan Perez secured the win.
"We are upset by the result - whenever you put the shirt on, you want to win and do well," admitted Fowler after the final whistle.
"But it's still a great occasion, playing for Liverpool against Real Madrid in the Bernabeu. It's a special place."
Aside from the 90 minutes of football, the event provided the group of Anfield alumni with a chance to see old friends and reminisce about shared memories.
Fowler continued: "It's as though we haven't been away. We've got a lot of foreign lads who live all over the world and whenever we get together it is like we have never been away.
"We always mix and enjoy each other's company. I think that is the Liverpool way; it's passed down through generations.
"Whenever you see the older players who played in the '60s and '70s their camaraderie is still great. It is a special club."
Next on the agenda for the Liverpool FC Legends is a meeting with rivals Manchester United, scheduled for September 3 in Sweden.
Fowler is among the initial names to be confirmed for the side's second official encounter - and he explained why the project is so popular.
"We have played unofficial Liverpool games in the past and we always enjoy it," added the Englishman.
"Now that you're actually affiliated with the club - you're putting the proper shirt on, the proper badge - it probably means more to a lot of people.
"It's good for the fans as well. People enjoy seeing the older players. It's not as quick as a Premier League or La Liga game, but they enjoy themselves.
"And we do, we love playing. It is all about enjoyment. It is brilliant and the more the merrier."