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Rickie Lambert saluted the brilliance of Simon Mignolet after Liverpool kicked off their Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Southampton at Anfield.

The big frontman admitted the below-par Reds were indebted to the Belgian keeper, who made a stunning reflex save to deny Morgan Schneiderlin late on.

Mignolet ensured Liverpool held on to secure maximum points with Daniel Sturridge’s close range strike proving to be the winner.

“It was one of the best saves I’ve ever seen,” Lambert told the ECHO.

“It was a fingertip save. It looked like it was definitely a goal and he’s managed to push it onto the underside of the bar.

“It’s little moments like that that make all the difference.”

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Liverpool were far from their fluent best with Nathaniel Clyne deservedly cancelling out Raheem Sterling’s opener which was expertly created by Jordan Henderson.

At 1-1 Saints looked the more likely winners but Brendan Rodgers’ men dug deep and Sturridge converted from Sterling’s header.

Lambert believes victory will settle a few nerves and he’s confident the Reds will improve ahead of next Monday’s trip to champions Manchester City.

“I don’t think we played bad, it just wasn’t as fluid as I know and everyone else knows here that Liverpool can be,” he added.

“There were glimpses and I thought the first goal was excellent – a great pass by Jordan and a great finish.

“After some pressure from Southampton I thought we came strong. It was a really hard game. Southampton did really well and it was a great three points for us.

“Obviously, it’s the first game and we’re not going to be as fluent as we were at the end of last season, that will come.

“With it being the first game everyone’s excited, everyone’s nervous, everyone’s desperate to win, and you’re not sure how you’re going to play. You’re never quite as sharp as you want to be.

“The quicker you can get that first win, the better. It makes you calm, helps you get into your rhythm a little bit easier and a little bit faster.

“The most important thing is getting the first win under the belt. That’s the perfect springboard to go into the next game. We’ve got a few hard games coming up.”

It was a day to cherish for Lambert, who received a standing ovation from both sets of fans when he came off the bench to make his debut against his former club.

The 32-year-old’s name was chanted repeatedly by the away end who showed their appreciation for his contribution during his five years on the South Coast.

“It meant a lot,” Lambert said.

“Obviously, it was special from the Liverpool fans with me making my debut and realising a dream. And it was special from the Southampton fans too.

“I thought they showed a lot of respect to me and I really appreciate that.

“I tried to show it back when I left the pitch. I’ve got nothing but respect for Southampton and the fans especially.”