Sorry the hardest word for Helton

The moments after Helton allowed Arjen Robben's long-range shot to slip through his grasp and roll agonisingly into the net for the goal that set FC Porto on the way to a UEFA Champions League exit may not be one the goalkeeper will want to remember, but he is fully prepared to take the blame and move on.

Čech sympathy
Porto led Chelsea FC 1-0 at Stamford Bridge midway through the second leg last night, leaving them 2-1 up on aggregate and on course for a memorable victory. However, the crowd were barely back in their seats following the interval when Helton conceded and, with their confidence renewed, Chelsea went on to win 2-1 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate. "I know how he feels," home No1 Petr Čech admitted.

'Full responsibility'
Helton said: "I of course I take full responsibility. I am the kind of person who is always prepared to take the blame - people say sometimes I am a bit foolish to do so. But tonight I prefer to take the total responsibility for my mistake rather than letting a bad atmosphere build up in the team. I have no problem with doing that, and here in our club we never have a bad atmosphere. We all stick together."

Determined side
Reflecting on the goal, he added: "The ball bounced in front of me and I did not make the correct move. Yes, the crowd made fun of me, but it is their stadium and I understand." And Helton also paid tribute to his colleagues for going so close to causing an upset. "I was unlucky but what I want to stress is the determination of the team," he said. "They were not afraid. We try to be the equal of our opponents. We knew there would be pressure put on us and how strong Chelsea were, but we did our best."