By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Liverpool were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Fulham at Anfield as the visitors claimed their first point of the Premier League season.
The Reds, coming off the back of a demanding European encounter against Atletico Madrid, struggled to find their usual rhythm and attacking fluency throughout a largely subdued contest.
Bradley Barcola was handed his first Premier League start for Liverpool, but the French forward found it difficult to make a decisive impact as Fulham defended with discipline and remained a threat on the counter.
Liverpool’s sluggish start was almost punished when goalkeeper Alisson made an error that presented an opportunity to Goncalo Garcia. However, Jeremy Jacquet intervened at the crucial moment to clear the danger and prevent Fulham from taking an early lead.
Liverpool gradually increased the pressure as the first half progressed, but Fulham’s compact defensive shape frustrated the hosts. The visitors were happy to absorb pressure and look for openings in transition, while Liverpool struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Fulham came closest to breaking the deadlock after the interval when Victor Munoz struck the crossbar, providing a major warning to Liverpool. The visitors grew in confidence as the match wore on, sensing that a first league point of the campaign was within reach.
Liverpool attempted to force the issue late on, with the Anfield crowd urging their side forward, but Fulham remained resolute. The hosts were unable to find the final pass or finish required to turn their possession into a winning goal.
The result means Fulham end their losing streak under Alvaro Arbeloa and leave Anfield with a valuable point. For Liverpool, it was an evening of frustration after they failed to capitalise on home advantage.
The draw also represents a third stalemate in four matches for Andoni Iraola’s side, underlining the competitive nature of a fixture in which neither team could find the breakthrough.
Liverpool will view the result as two points dropped, particularly at Anfield, although the physical demands of their recent European commitments appeared to have taken their toll.
Fulham, meanwhile, can take considerable encouragement from a disciplined defensive performance and a result that finally gets their Premier League campaign off the mark.
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