Liverpool failed to make it three consecutive wins in the Premier League on Saturday with a goalless draw at home to Sunderland.
The best chance of the first half fell to Sunderland defender Wes Brown, but he headed over from a corner in stoppage time as the hosts struggled to get a grip on the game.
Brendan Rodgers's side improved after the break, though Sunderland were able to absorb some late pressure and hold on for a share of the spoils.
Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the action between the two teams.
Match statistics
LIVERPOOL
Shots: 8
On target: 2
Possession: 53%
Corners: 5
Fouls: 12
SUNDERLAND
Shots: 5
On target: 1
Possession: 47%
Corners: 7
Fouls: 15
Was the result fair?
It is hard to argue against Sunderland coming away with a share of the spoils after they fought doggedly to stifle Liverpool while also posing a threat of their own at the other end. On another day they could have even left Anfield with a victory. Meanwhile, the hosts did not do anywhere near enough to warrant a win.
Liverpool's performance
The home side were simply woeful in the first half as they struggled to string their passes together and afforded Sunderland far too much freedom going forward. Brendan Rodgers must have been wondering if this was roughly the same set of players who almost won the title last season. The likes of Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho looked lethargic up front, while Rickie Lambert was starved of service as the lone striker. Add to that a shaky-looking defence and you can understand why the home fans were frequently groaning in disappointment. There was an improvement after the break as the Reds approached the game in a more dynamic way, but their lack of teeth in advanced areas persisted until the final whistle put everyone out of their misery.
Sunderland's performance
Following a chastening 4-1 defeat at home to Manchester City in midweek, Sunderland boss Gus Poyet is sure to be thrilled with how his side equipped themselves at Anfield. From pretty much the first whistle the Black Cats looked like a team playing without fear as they surged forward while employing a positive passing game. They could have even found themselves in front at the break were it not for some poor finishing. There was a change of emphasis in the second half as Liverpool gradually fought back, but captain John O'Shea and his defensive colleagues did an admirable job of keeping the hosts out. Despite their winless streak being stretched to five matches, Sunderland can take plenty of heart from their display on Merseyside.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Connor Wickham: The Sunderland youngster was a bundle of energy out on the left wing, giving Glen Johnson a torrid time throughout the match. The 21-year-old was in the thick of his side's best attacking moves while also doing his share of the work at the back when needed. There were one or two moments where he went down easily inside the box, but these are minor complaints following an impressive performance.
Biggest gaffe
Wes Brown should have given the Sunderland the lead on the stroke of half time when he rose highest to meet a corner from the left, but the veteran defender somehow put his header over the crossbar. The look of disappointment on his face said it all.
Referee performance
Neil Swarbrick had an inconsistent afternoon out in the middle, occasionally halting the flow of the game with some petty decisions. The official also had a handful of penalty appeals to deal with, all of which he got right. Both Wickham and Sterling tried to dupe him a couple of times, but he did well not to fall for any of their theatrics.
What next?
Liverpool: The Reds face a crucial night in the Champions League on Tuesday when Group B rivals Basel make the trip to Anfield.
Sunderland: The Black Cats continue their Premier League campaign next Saturday with the visit of West Ham United.
Jack Prescott
