Reds play out bore draw

Liverpool failed to build any head of steam as they laboured to a goalless draw with Utrecht in their Europa League group game on Tuesday.

Roy Hodgson fielded a strong side as he looked to gain some form going into an important Premier League game against Blackpool on Saturday, but he'll be disappointed with what he saw.

The Reds were completely lacking in inspiration throughout, with Fernando Torres cutting a forlorn figure up front on his own and still lacking the sharpness that made him so feared in the past.

Utrecht arguably had the better of the chances, with Alje Schut and Jacob Mulenga going close for the home side in the second half.

Although Liverpool stay top of the group going into their third game of the competition, it was still a disappointing showing by what Hodgson would consider his strongest available side.

In the end it was a point gained for the Reds, but it was not the performance many thought could kick-start what has been a lacklustre opening to their season.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.