New-look Liverpool begin season with disappointing 1-1 draw at Anfield against gutsy Sunderland

Liverpool made a frustrating start to the new Premier League season as Sebastian Larsson earned Sunderland a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Saturday.


Sunderland's Sebastian Larsson volleys home the equaliser
against Liverpool during Saturday's Premier League match at
Anfield. The game ended 1-1. PIC/Getty Images

All appeared to be going to plan for Kenny Dalglish's expensively-assembled side when Luis Suarez, who had earlier missed a penalty, gave the hosts a 12th minute lead.

But Liverpool's defence has been less than convincing in pre-season and Larsson took full advantage of some poor marking to volley home a 57th minute equaliser.

It was a disappointing result for Liverpool, who have spent more than ufffd100 million this year in an attempt to re-establish themselves in the top four after last season's sixth-placed finish.

New signings Jordan Henderson, Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Jose Enrique all featured against Sunderland.

But it is clearly going to take the players time to gel after a disappointing second half performance by the hosts.

Liverpool were seeking their first opening day win since 2008u00a0-- when they beat Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

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Wigan 1-1 Norwich