Liverpool climbed back to third in the Premier League standings, despite being held to a goalless draw against Southampton at Anfield on Sunday.
The game started in a timid fashion but almost sprung to life after 18 minutes as Oriol Romeu lost possession to allow Roberto Firmino to run at goal before letting fly, but Maya Yoshida did brilliantly to just get in a vital block.
Philippe Coutinho then looked to catch out Fraser Forster from 35 yards out with a looping volley, although the Brazilian’s shot was straight at the goalkeeper who made a comfortable save.
The second-half proved a livelier affair as Liverpool were controversially awarded a penalty with 65 minutes gone as the referee adjudged the ball to strike the arm of Jack Stephens, although Forster managed to dish out some justice after saving from James Milner’s fierce spot-kick.
Daniel Sturridge worked a good chance in the final 10 minutes with some quick feet to open a shooting chance, but the England international couldn’t generate any power in his effort and the keeper was more than equal to it.
TIA Man of the Match: Lucas Leiva
Referee: Bobby Madley
Liverpool: Mignolet; Clyne, Matip, Lovren, Milner; Lucas (Lallana 69′), Can, Wijnaldum (Grujic 87′); Firmino, Coutinho, Origi (Sturridge 69′)
Subs not used: Karius, Klavan, Moreno, Alexander-Arnold
Subs not used: Hassen, Caceres, Hojbjerg, Pied, Rodriguez
Next match: West Ham (A) – Premier League – May 14
