LIVERPOOL again wasted a chance to take a commanding lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League as brave West Ham United produced a minor miracle of their own at Anfield.
It is 45 years since they have won at this stadium, so this first point in nine years at Liverpool was a fine achievement.
West Ham have never been known for their defensive reliability at Liverpool, but they were magnificent as they stretched an
unbeaten run to three games.
At the back goalkeeper Robert Green, England defender Matthew Upson and Welshman James Collins stood defiant.
And another Welshman, former Liverpool man Craig Bellamy, came close to breaking the deadlock with a 30-yard shot which crashed against a post.
Liverpool, who are back on top of the table, but by only one point,
dominated the game but West Ham repelled the waves of attacks as they grabbed a crucial point in their own battle for survival.
Liverpool: Reina, Arbeloa, Carragher, Hyypia, Dossena, Benayoun, Gerrard, Alonso, Riera (Babel 78), Kuyt, Keane (Ngog 66). Subs not used: Cavalieri, Agger, Mascherano, Leiva Lucas, Insua. Booked: Alonso.
West Ham United: Green, Neill, Collins, Upson, Ilunga, Faubert (Boa Morte 86), Parker, Mullins, Behrami, Bellamy, Cole. Subs not used: Noble, Lastuvka, Tristan, Davenport, Collison, Di Michele. Booked: Mullins.
Referee: P Walton.
Attendance: 41,169