Arne Slot hailed Liverpool's “extraordinary” second half in their 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest.
The Premier League leaders maintained their six points as hosts Diogo Jota came off the bench to knock the gap to just three points at the top after Chris Wood's early opener.
Liverpool struggled to get through a gritty Forest display at their best on the hour, but a much-improved display after Jota's introduction saw them share the spoils.
Slot told TNT Sports: “Their goalie made a few incredible saves, but their defenders also made a few chances and good blocks. Almost every shot was blocked.
“I couldn't have asked for more. In the second half, he was outstanding. There are no teams that can create many chances against a strong defensive opponent. Unfortunately we didn't get a second.”
“You have to be a little bit lucky with that (substitution).
“We took out Ibou (Konate), who is usually a big threat in set pieces, but we all know Jota can score and Tsmikas has a good delivery. We put them in to score goals, but after 20 seconds they really did it.”
Jota: 'Good point but we want three'.
Jota's close-range header was assisted by fellow substitute Kostas Tsimikas from a corner, and the pair made speeches after coming on.
The Portuguese forward said: “We were watching the FA Cup goal he (Tsimikas) scored a few years ago and when it was on the touchline we said, 'Now let's go and recreate that. Take the corner. And that's a goal.
“It was one of those times when everything went right. But like I said, I'm not happy because I think I can win.”
“There is a long way to go in the Premier League,” said Jota, who is leading at the top with only six points remaining. Everywhere you go is tough. That's another point, but we want three.”
Sels – Still a good draw.
Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels took a lot of deserved plaudits after making some fantastic saves to keep Tricky Trees in the game.
“It's amazing for all the fans behind us,” said the Belgian defender. A point is a good result for us. Of course, We want to win, but I think a point is a good result against them.
“In the second half there was a lot of space between the lines and Liverpool had a lot of chances. If we are realistic, we have to say that one thing is a good result for us.
“I am there to help the team in difficult moments. In the last 20-25 minutes of the second half, they had a lot of chances. Everyone fought until the last second. I'm really happy for the team and we didn't lose. This is because it gives me confidence for the upcoming match.
“We need to get 40 points as soon as possible before the season starts. He has played 17 games and has 41, so he could be a bit higher. If you want to finish in the top four or top five, Aston Villa, You need to put teams like Manchester City and Newcastle behind you.”
Goalkeeper Jota, who was denied several times after Sels' goal, said of the goalkeeper's display: “Wolf just told my old coaches. Made two or three great saves. You want to be better, but he's good.”