The 1980–81 season was a contrast to previous seasons as the club struggled in the League, but excelled in cup competitions. Despite losing 8 games, the same as eventual winners Aston Villa, Liverpool drew 17 to finish in fifth place, their worst position for 16 years. Liverpool's form in the cups was much better; an early elimination in the FA Cup withstanding, they reached the finals of the Football League Cup and European Cup. They won the Football League Cup for the first time, beating West Ham United 2–1 in a replay after the final ended in a draw. Real Madrid were Liverpool's opponents in the 1981 European Cup Final, and they won the competition for the third time, courtesy of an Alan Kennedy goal in a 1–0 victory.