London, December 31:

Liverpool missed a chance to close in on Premier League leaders Arsenal when they drew 0-0 at Manchester City on Sunday.

Liverpool, who won the most recent of their record 18 league titles back in 1990, dominated possession and chances at City of Manchester Stadium, but were unable to break down a defense anchored by Richard Dunne and Micah Richards.

Liverpool have 37 points, 10 fewer than Arsenal and eight behind Manchester United. “The team was playing well and creating chances and normally you finish by winning,” Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez said. “They have a fantastic record, but we had our chances. Their goalkeeper and the defenders were really good.”

With three minutes left, Dirk Kuyt almost forced the ball over the line from close range, but it was cleared and Yossi Benayoun had a shot on goal blocked and deflected wide by Dunne. “It was just backs to the wall,” Dunne said. “We’re at home and we want to win games at home, but you have to respect sides like Liverpool. It was a difficult game and we got the result.” At the other end of the standings, Derby stayed firmly at the bottom when they lost 2-1 to visiting Blackburn in Sunday’s other match.