Liverpool held by Fulham as Anfield winless run reaches four matches

Andoni Iraola’s side had started to build momentum after beating Ipswich Town and Atletico Madrid, but this was a far less convincing display. Liverpool had more of the ball and created a few decent openings, yet they lacked the sharpness needed to break down a Fulham team that defended with discipline.

Match highlight

Liverpool began brightly and almost scored inside 10 minutes. Ryan Gravenberch found Alexander Isak, who has been in good form, but the striker dragged a left-footed shot narrowly wide.

Fulham then had the best chance of the first half.

Liverpool gave the ball away 12 metres from their own goal. Alisson was off his line as Gonzalo Garcia went for goal, but Jeremy Jacquet produced a vital clearance on the line to keep the score level.

That moment did not unsettle Liverpool for long. They pushed forward again and went close from a Dominik Szoboszlai corner. Victor Munoz headed the in-swinging delivery towards goal, but Bernd Leno made a sharp save on the line.

Fulham had lost their first three league matches, but Alvaro Arbeloa’s side looked much more composed than their early-season results suggested. Antonee Robinson headed wide shortly before half-time in one of their better openings, and the visitors went into the break with the game still very much in the balance.

Liverpool started the second half with some intent. Isak tested Leno with a dangerous effort toward the goalkeeper’s left, but the pattern soon returned. Liverpool dominated possession without finding enough space against Fulham’s compact defence.

Fulham carried little threat for most of the half, though Calvin Bassey did head straight at Alisson from a promising position. At the other end, Leno again had to be alert to keep out a firm Szoboszlai shot.

Josh King nearly stole the points for Fulham late on. His curling attempt was pushed around the post by Alisson, ensuring Liverpool at least avoided a damaging home defeat.

A draw felt fair. Neither side created enough clear chances to claim the win, and Liverpool’s lack of energy will concern Iraola more than the result itself. The Reds are already some distance off the pace in the title race and need a much better attacking display soon.

For Fulham, the point offers a reason for belief. They remain short of wins, but their organisation and resilience at Anfield suggest better results may follow.