Liverpool were held to a goalless draw by Fulham at Anfield as Andoni Iraola’s side dropped more Premier League points at home.
The Reds came into the match less than 72 hours after their Champions League win over Atletico Madrid, but they struggled to produce the same energy and attacking threat.
The draw means Liverpool have now taken six points from their first four league games, while Fulham picked up their first point of the season.
Fulham boss Alvaro Arbeloa was under pressure after his team lost their first three league games of the season. However, his players responded with a strong performance and could even have won the match if they had been more clinical in front of goal.
The visitors almost took the lead early on when Jeremy Jacquet cleared Gonzalo Garcia’s effort off the line following a poor mix-up between Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson and Ryan Gravenberch.
Fulham looked the better side for much of the first half. Josh King forced a save from Alisson, while Antonee Robinson headed wide.
Liverpool also had their chances, with Victor Munoz seeing his header saved by Bernd Leno. Bradley Barcola also had an effort deflected behind for a corner.
Iraola made changes at half-time, bringing on Milos Kerkez for Kostas Tsimikas. Gravenberch and Munoz were later replaced by Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo as Liverpool tried to change the game.
Alexander Isak came close but his effort was comfortably saved by Leno. The Fulham goalkeeper then produced another good save to deny Dominik Szoboszlai.
Liverpool introduced Rio Ngumoha and Jeremie Frimpong in the 72nd minute, but the changes failed to produce a breakthrough.
Isak headed wide from a late corner as Fulham held on for a valuable point.
### Flat Liverpool Struggle to Find a Way Through
Liverpool looked far less dangerous than they did against Atletico Madrid and failed to score at Anfield for the first time since Leeds visited in January.
The result also means Liverpool have drawn four consecutive Premier League home games, including their final two home matches of last season.
For Fulham, the point could be an important turning point after their difficult start under Arbeloa.
New signing David Affengruber impressed on his debut, while Calvin Bassey also put in a strong performance. Fulham even had more touches in Liverpool’s penalty area, 24 to 18.
Arbeloa, who played 98 games for Liverpool between 2007 and 2009, also made history by becoming the first former Liverpool Premier League player to manage against the club and avoid defeat.
It was a much-needed result for Fulham and a frustrating afternoon for Liverpool, who will need to find more attacking ideas if they are to maintain their early-season momentum.
