Fernando Torres endured a frustrating return to the Liverpool first XI as Fulham earned a deserved 0-0 Premier League draw at Anfield.
Torres made his first appearance in Rafa Benitez's starting line-up since overcoming a hamstring injury but the Spanish star could not find a way past a well-organised Fulham team.
Benitez controversially opted to name midfielder Xabi Alonso among his substitutes as Lucas Leiva was offered an opportunity alongside Javier Mascherano, and Fulham comfortably dealt with the tactic.
A lacklustre first half ended in stalemate but Robbie Keane could, and probably should, have addressed that issue when denied from point-blank range by Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.
At the other end, Jose Reina was called into action to stop an excellent curling Jimmy Bullard effort as goalmouth action was at a premium.
Benitez, whose side sit level on points with Chelsea at the top of the table, introduced Alonso after the interval and the substitution made an impact as the in-form Dirk Kuyt was rebuffed by a fine save from Schwarzer.
However, Fulham - who shut up shop in the second half - comfortably held on for a stalemate, with Liverpool's dissatisfaction increased by the knowledge that title rivals Chelsea drew 0-0 with Newcastle.
Fulham, who arrived having suffered just two league defeats in seven and one of the best defensive records in the division, retained the side that beat Tottenham last weekend.
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