Premier League leaders Manchester City played out a 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield this afternoon.

Visiting City were made to battle hard for their point and had to play the final moments of the fixture with ten men following the dismissal of substitute Mario Balotelli.

After an even opening few minutes, Roberto Mancini's City began to control the encounter and broke the deadlock in the 31st minute.

David Silva was the creator, sending over a corner which captain Vincent Kompany turned in with the aid of his shoulder.

However, the lead would only last two minutes, with an own goal drawing the home side level. Charlie Adam's shot was heading wide of goal until Joleon Lescott diverted the ball into his own net past Joe Hart.

Hart managed to prevent another effort from Adam just before the break when he turned the ball over the bar with his foot.

Liverpool created the better chances after the break, but England international Hart was on hand to deny Luis Suarez, Stewart Downing and Dirk Kuyt.

Balotelli, who had been on the pitch for 17 minutes, was handed his marching orders in the 82nd minute following a clash with Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, City could have claimed all three points as the match entered stoppage time, but after beating Jose Reina in goal, Skrtel got back to clear off the line.

There was still time for Hart to be called into action, as he was forced into a full-stretch dive to turn away Andy Carroll's header.