Raheem Sterling's superb individual goal earned Liverpool a fully
deserved draw and ensured the Capital One Cup semi-final with Chelsea
remains finely balanced.
Eden Hazard's first-half penalty gave Chelsea the
advantage but Liverpool were rewarded for another illustration of their
rapid recent improvement when England forward Sterling showed searing
pace followed by good composure to equalise on the hour.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers believes the side that came so close to winning the Premier League title last season have regained that identity in the past month as new signings settle in - and there was plenty of evidence to support his claim at Anfield.
Chelsea will feel they hold the slight advantage ahead of next Tuesday's second leg at Stamford Bridge but it was only thanks to goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who made a succession of saves as Liverpool pressed for a precious second goal, having 20 attempts on goal to their opponents' two.
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard also struck a post as they dominated after the break but Chelsea weathered the storm and manager Jose Mourinho will hope they can finish off the job to secure a return to Wembley against either Tottenham or Sheffield United.
Gerrard returned to Liverpool's starting line-up after missing the league win at Aston Villa - and despite appeals from Mourinho, Chelsea's fans reminded him with regularity about his slip against them last season that contributed to Liverpool failing to claim the title.