Liverpool hang on for draw

Liverpool hung on for a 1-1 draw at the Estadio do Dragao against an excellent attacking Porto side. Rafa Benitez's side were well below their best and were on the back foot from the off as Porto looked a very dangerous proposition for the Reds.

The Portuguese champions were led by inspired skipper Gonzalez, a summer target of Everton, and the exciting talent Quaresma - who at times was simply breathtaking.

There was no surprise as Porto took an early lead with Lucho Gonzalez stroking home from the penalty spot after Jose Reina had brought down Tarik Sektioui in the 8th minute.

However, in Liverpool's first attack they were able to equalise as Dirk Kuyt who headed the ball into the net as Sami Hyypia had clipped on Steve Finnan's deep free-kick across the area in the 17th minute.

Liverpool really were not at their best on a night where last season's beaten finalists would have felt they should have put in a better performance.

Pennant was red carded late on for two yellow cards, his first a foul on Quaresma and his second after he sent Fucile crashing over the line in his eagerness to get the ball. He then claimed a corner and turned to argue with the linesman and referee but the yellow card was already out, followed by the red.

Porto in the end became frustrated in a game they perhaps should've fought on to win.