Charlie Adam missed a penalty as Liverpool’s hopes of reaching the Premier League top four took a hit after they were held to a goalless draw by Wigan.
The summer signing from Blackpool saw his spot kick saved by Latic’s goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi after Luis Suarez saw his acrobatic effort blocked by the hand of Gary Caldwell. The fact the Uruguayan was even on the field irked many in the football sphere after the FA found him guilty of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra. However despite that being the main talking point before kick off and Liverpool showing their solidarity by wearing t-shirts bearing Suarez’s image it failed to overshadow a pulsating encounter in the North West. Wigan played their part as well and manager Roberto Martinez will be delighted that his side have now held two of the leagues biggest clubs in consecutive games as they look to escape the relegation zone before the new year.
It was the visitors who started the opening half the brightest although without the usual vim and vigour from Suarez who appeared uncharacteristically subdued amidst a sea of jeers from the Wigan supporters. Still, the Reds looked the more likely to score and manager Kenny Dalglish will be disappointed that his side failed to convert the chances the created with Jordan Henderson, Martin Skrtel, Dirk Kuyt and Glen Johnson all seeing efforts saved by the impressive Al Habsi. That seemed to wake the hosts up and they soon settled into the slick passing routine that has become their hallmark under Martinez. Mohamed Diame lashed a shot into the side netting from 40-yards before Pepe Reina had to be at his best to keep out Victor Moses swerving effort after the winger’s mazy run from the half way line.
Liverpool regained their momentum in the second half and were presented with a glorious opportunity to break the deadlock when Caldwell blocked Suarez’s over head kick with his arm leaving referee Michael Oliver with no option but to point to the spot. Adam stepped up but could only to Al Habsi claw the ball asway as Dalglish’s men missed from 12-yards for the fourth time this season. It seemed to knock the stuffing out of the Reds although they should have taken the lead just minutes after their penalty miss with Dirk Kuyt hooking over from six yards when it looked easier to score. Wigan had one more chance left in them and it was Moses who came close to snatching three points but could only stab the ball wide from close range as they moved to within one point of safety.
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