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Make no mistake, there are huge reasons for optimism, even if this result had a whiff of frustration. We can see Jürgen Klopp's methods taking shape before our eyes, we can see patterns trying to be born; maybe a final ball slightly off or a player just failing to make the right decision -- as Klopp said: "98 percent OK."

Every team will have nights like this one. Even against 10 men, it can often be devastatingly hard to break down the proverbial parked bus. And the Reds tried valiantly. With a fully fit squad, with slightly more integration and the verve that will come from these things, there will be goals. We're witnessing the evolution, a hugely talented squad of players working with a supremely capable manager.

Any team missing the collective attacking talents of Daniel Sturridge, Christian Benteke, Roberto Firmino and Danny Ings from the starting line up is bound to feel the pinch. Divock Origi ran ceaselessly, tried laudably in a thankless task for a new recruit and last night will have done the Belgian no harm at all. He played a vital part in the equalizing goal and was a presence up front throughout the game.

Benteke showed what he can provide when he came off the bench and immediately set about terrorizing the Rubin defence. He was unlucky to hit the bar from Adam Lallana's perfectly weighted through ball and perhaps if he was fully fit and firing he would have fancied himself to get on the scoresheet from his six shots at goal. Firmino, also returning from a spell on the sidelines, showed the Anfield crowd what we can expect when he attains full fitness and sharpness. He is capable of the most sublime touches and his turn of pace will leave many a Premier League defender choking on dust in the next few weeks.

Read more from Anthony Stanley on Xtra.LiverpoolFC.com >>

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