But Sampras proved beyonddoubt that he is an all-time great by claiming another US Open title in September, with the kind of form that could see him challenge again next year.
Liverpool were level minutes later, Fowler clipping home his 31st League Cup goal behind his legs from Luis Garcia's cross-shot, but Arsenal's youthful pace and endeavour continued to cause the Reds all sorts of problems and the outcome was beyonddoubt before half time.