Liverpool’s resurgent run came to an end at the Emirates on Wednesday but they are deluding themselves if they think their narrow defeat was caused by Howard Webb’s refusal to award a last minute penalty.

It was a blatant handball by Cesc Fabregas to prevent Steven Gerrard’s free-kick travelling goalwards but it was never a spot-kick.

Replays confirmed it was clearly outside the box and while it deserved another free-kick and a booking for the Spaniard, anything more would have been a travesty.

 

Instead of complaining about not receiving a penalty they were never entitled to, Liverpool should have been asking themselves why they didn’t start the game with the same positive attitude they showed in the final stages when they had Arsene Wenger’s side on the rack.

It’s the same negativity that has been at the heart of the Merseysiders problems in a troubled campaign and it’s only when they are behind and chasing a game do they take risks going forward.

But despite their conservative style and other problems on and off the field Liverpool are still favourites to finish fourth – however they have their rivals to thank for that as much as anything.

Two of their main rivals for that last Champions League spot Aston Villa and Tottenham have questions to answer about their bottle because they squander points against sides they shouldn’t and fail to capitalise often enough when Liverpool do slip up.

On current form, the best hope to snatch fourth is Manchester City, but even with all their resources they fail to convince. But City have two games in hand and meet the Reds next. Rarely has a fixture between both clubs meant so much and taking full advantage over the next few weeks could see Roberto Mancini’s outfit open up a nine point lead over the Anfield club.

It’s never that easy but unless Liverpool show a bit more guile and ambition then a position that should be straightforward for them could end up out of reach.