Liverpool vs. Machester United: Why Reds Should Be Thrilled with Draw

A 1-1 draw may seem like a disappointing result for both Manchester United and Liverpool, who both had their sights set on a victory, but the Reds should be ecstatic that they were able to push the Red Devils to a draw.

Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Nani all began the match on the sidelines. It was a puzzling approach by Sir Alex Ferguson, given the magnitude of this match, and one that ultimately threw away a win for Manchester United.

Their formation and strategy suggested that Manchester United was comfortable with a draw from the very beginning. The Reds were looking to pick up a huge victory, though, and have to be going home with a semi-bitter taste in their mouths.

Such shouldn't be the case, though. The team rallied behind Steven Gerrard, who knocked in Liverpool's only goal, and they should consider holding their own against the best team in the English Premier League an overwhelming success.

Liverpool remains within striking distance of the best teams in the EPL and didn't halt the momentum they've accrued in recent matches. They took on the top-ranked team in the EPL and held their own.

Liverpool has Norwich and West Brom ahead of them. Both are manageable matches, and Liverpool can continue to climb in the standings.

They aren't going to be able to make up all of the matches they lost with Gerrard sidelined immediately. But they are right in the thick of the EPL standings, and this match proves that no team is going to come in and roll the Reds.

Slowly but surely, the Reds are gaining legitimacy and climbing their way up the standings, one match at a time.