This Liverpool side fared better against West Ham United than the supposed first team did in the league, but the Reds’ draw means yet another fixture is added to this ever-growing list.
Jurgen Klopp’s Reds were the better team on the day. The dangerous Dimitri Payet was nullified, and Liverpool boasted the lion’s share of the chances but failed to capitalise.
We’ll go again at the Boleyn Ground in a couple of weeks, but for now, here are some player ratings from Anfield.
Simon Mignolet - 5
Flapped at a couple of crosses and showed no signs of improved distribution. A clean sheet to add to his midweek heroics, though.
Nathaniel Clyne - 6
The rest in midweek clearly did him good. Looked better.
Steven Caulker - 6
Lucky not to be penalised for handball in the penalty area but generally solid in the air all evening.
Dejan Lovren - 6
Misjudged the flight of a cross in the first half that could – and probably should – have seen the Reds go a goal behind. Steady from then on, albeit booked.
Brad Smith - 6
There really isn’t much between him and Alberto Moreno, you know.
Kevin Stewart - 7
Really good middle third player. However, he looks like a fish out of water when he gets towards their box.
Joe Allen - 7
Smart in possession and got into some positive positions going forward. Had chances to score – ones that you’d expect him to put away given his recent upturn in form.
Cameron Brannagan - 7
Constantly shows for it, and makes space for himself and his team mates expertly. Just like everyone else, though, he’s not great at taking set-pieces.
Jordon Ibe - 4
Had a poor night. Cut a particularly frustrated figure.
Joao Teixeira - 6
Feel he needed to do more. Final ball was lacking too often.
Christian Benteke - 5
Another one of those nights for the Belgian. Not strong enough and not clinical enough.