Goalscoring chances were few and far between at Anfield this afternoon as Liverpool and Stoke City played out a 0-0 draw.

Neither side was able to produce a shot on target in what proved to be a tentative opening 45 minutes.

Hosts Liverpool enjoyed long spells in possession after the restart, but were unable to force visiting goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen into any meaningful action.

Their best chance fell to Dutch striker Dirk Kuyt with 15 minutes remaining, but his diving header flew wide of the upright from six yards out.

Kuyt also found the side netting from a tight angle, while Jonathan Walters retreated to clear when it appeared that Craig Bellamy was about to head in from close range with five minutes remaining.

Despite their pressure, Liverpool were unable to find the winning goal in the closing stages as Stoke held out to secure a point.