Benitez...Beschmitez

Does Liverpool reaching their second Champions League final in 3 years say, as a very knowledgable soccer pundit puts it, it all? will this team be remembered in the same way as the great 'pool teams of the past? is it enough to organize your team for one competition? or is it shit on a stick as a world cup winner commented last weekend? I am amazed that the 'pool have made their 2nd champions league final in 3 years - its a fantastic achievement. But is Benitez a great coach? is it ok to concede 9 goals to arsenal in getting dumped out of the two domestic cup competitions? is it ok to be 21 points off the pace in the league? I just don't know. As the Economist asks, what is the benefit of the doubt?