Liverpool went top of the Premier League on Monday but missed the chance to open a three-point lead when they were held 0-0 at home by West Ham United. After Chelsea was stunned at home by Arsenal on Sunday, the stage was set for Rafael Benitez's side to seize the initiative in the title race but it produced a subdued display and ended frustrated against a resolute West Ham side. A draw was enough to move Liverpool one point clear but it almost fluffed its lines completely with former striker Craig Bellamy going closest to breaking the deadlock with a thumping shot against the inside of the post in the first half. Liverpool, held 0-0 by Fulham in their previous league game at home, has 34 points from 15 games with Chelsea on 33. Champion Manchester United have 28 with a game in hand. West Ham has not won at Anfield in the league since 1963 and was content to sit back and defend in depth throughout the first half. The home side could not find any passing rhythm and its best chances came from corners and set pieces with defender Sami Hyypia twice going close with headers. Steven Gerrard was bogged down in midfield but did find space to slash a shot into the side-netting. The second half produced more in the way of goalmouth action as Liverpool swarmed forward.
