That Mario Gaspar effort for Villarreal was something of a false dawn. It is relentless pressure from Liverpool as they come forward again, this time a Roberto Firmino ball into the box has a bit too much pace for James Milner.

Image source, Reuters

All Liverpool as James Milner cushions a deep cross in the area for Adam Lallana, who attempts an acrobatic effort but can't get it on target.

The two combine to go even closer moments later, Milner playing a brilliant ball that cuts through the defence and runs in front of Lallana, but he sweeps his first-time effort wide.

Alphonse Areola came into the side for this game and the young Villarreal goalkeeper is having a shocker. He's looked nervous every time the ball comes near him and he drops the ball as he attempts to catch under pressure from Roberto Firmino. The whistle goes for a foul, but he won't be giving his defence any confidence.

Image source, Reuters

There's a goal also in the other semi-final and it is the defending champions Sevilla who take the lead, Kevin Gameiro with the goal.

Mark Lawrenson
Former Liverpool defender on BBC Radio 5 live

Image source, Reuters

"It's a very good start but just build on it. You don't have to score in the next couple of minutes. The goal makes Simon Mignolet's earlier save very important."

Villarreal coach Marcelino urges his players to calm it down. They're a little rattled by Liverpool's electric start and are struggling to get the ball but almost immediately Marcelino's words have an effect as a break ends with Mario Gaspar thumping a shot straight at Simon Mignolet. 

Mark Lawrenson
Former Liverpool defender on BBC Radio 5 live

"This must be the fastest start to a game I've seen for a long time."

Image source, Reuters

Great start for Liverpool as a sea of red surges forward straight from the off. Philippe Coutinho clips a smart ball over to Roberto Firmino just outside the box on the left, he crosses, it's too close to Alphonse Areola but the Villarreal keeper spills and Adam Lallana almost pounces.

If this atmosphere doesn't lift the players to another level, nothing will. Brilliant.

The referee blows his whistle and Liverpool get things under way.

Image source, Getty Images

You actually cannot hear the Europa League anthem as the fans continue to sing You'll Never Walk Alone.

What an atmosphere! The fans are still belting out You'll Never Walk Alone with both sets of fans holding up yellow and red scarves as the players walk out.

I mentioned earlier that this is the first game at Anfield since the Hillsborough inquest jury delivered its verdicts last week and an announcement is made over the speakers that You'll Never Walk Alone will be played. As it is, the fans hold up white and red cards spelling out '96' and 'The greatest football family'. The Villarreal fans also pay tribute by holding up their scarves. Emotional scenes.

Mark Lawrenson
Former Liverpool defender on BBC Radio 5 live

"I think Emre Can is going to be a very big favourite here at Liverpool. I am not quite sure what his best position is but he will be a regular here."

Jurgen Klopp, speaking to BT Sport: "It is a wonderful game, the atmosphere will be great. The only thing we have to do is our best. We have to be patient in the right moments but I feel good. 

"We know what to do. It is a special night."

Image source, AP

Jurgen Klopp in top form once again in his pre-match interview. 

After saying he couldn't see a thing on the team bus because of all the red smoke he is asked about the attacking threat of Daniel Sturridge , Roberto Firmino and Philippe Coutinho. A big smile develops on his face for no reason in particular as he says: "They are fit and they are ready."

He is bouncing. Definitely up for this one.