Liverpool have been held to a 1-1 draw by West Bromwich Albion in their Premier League clash at The Hawthorns.
The game failed to provide much spark in the opening 15 minutes as both sides struggled for invention and creativity.
© Getty Images
However, it kicked into life on 24 minutes when Liverpool surged ahead through Daniel Sturridge.
Luis Suarez was the architect of the opener as he drilled in a cross-cum-shot at the back post that the England international stroked home.
© Getty Images
The Reds came close to doubling their advantage nine minutes later when a goalmouth scramble had the West Brom defence in a fix, but Baggies goalkeeper Ben Foster eventually picked up the ball.
Philippe Coutinho tried his luck for Liverpool from outside the area moments later but in vain, before Zoltan Gera's attempt for the hosts went narrowly wide.
West Brom stepped up their game after the break and went close to restoring parity eight minutes into the second half.
Gareth McAuley's header from a corner appeared to be going in, until Reds goalkeeper Simon Mignolet made a one-handed stop.
Minutes later it was Baggies keeper Foster's turn to make a good save, as he kept out a Suarez attempt.
Midway through the second half West Brom equalised, thanks to a howler from Kolo Toure. The Liverpool defender failed to see Victor Anichebe and played the ball straight to the Nigerian forward, who took a touch on the edge of the penalty area and then slammed home.
Brendan Rodgers's side had a good chance to regain their lead and potentially win the contest late on, but Foster stood firm between the Baggies posts.
Subhankar Mondal
