Over the last few years, a Liverpool v Chelsea game has assumed special significance in the English Premier League calendar. Whether it is for the talk that goes on before the games or the quality shown by players on the field, fans look forward to these clashes with added relish. On Sunday at Anfield it was no different.

However the match will be remembered for reasons other than football as a horrendous error by referee Rob Styles saw Chelsea equalize when they were almost down and out. The game began in fine tempo with both sides unwilling to give any space.

But it was Liverpool who had the upper hand as Fernando Torres scored his first goal for the Reds in the 16th minute. The 23-year-old Torres had indicated that he was looking forward to the Chelsea game and he made good his words as he slotted past Petr Cech in the Chelsea goal. His goal was helped by a fine pass from Gerrard who was playing despite a fractured toe.

Dirk Kuyt also proved to be a handful for the Chelsea defense, but there were no further goals from Liverpool. Michael Essien and Didier Drogba were rarely in the game and Liverpool saw to it that they were kept quiet.

In the second half Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho switched Shaun Wright-Phillips to the right from a central position and that move almost paid immediate rewards as the England midfielder crossed for substitute Claudio Pizarro, who sent his header wide off the post.

It was in the 62 minute when Rob Styles entered the game ruling that Liverpool defender Finnan fouled Malouda. Lampard scored from the resulting penalty thus salvaging a point for the Blues.

Chelsea next face Portsmouth at home having collected 7 points from three games, while Liverpool face Sunderland having taken four points from two games.

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