The Reds reach 34 points to go one point clear of second-placed Chelsea, who lost 2-1 at home to Arsenal on Sunday. West Ham move to 13th on 18 points.

Liverpool dearly missed injured striker Fernando Torres, as Robbie Keane looked helpless upfront, until being substituted in the second half.

Rafa Benitez's side were frustrated by a well-organized Hammers defense, in addition to a defiant performance from goalkeeper Robert Green.

The England international made some superb saves, including a contender for save of the season early in the second half, denying Yossi Benayoun's volley.

Green then thwarted Dirk Kuyt late in the game, to make sure Gianfranco Zola's side come out of Anfield with a precious point.