Liverpool vs. Manchester United: Draw Proves Reds Are Headed in Right Direction

Liverpool fans should have smiles on their faces this afternoon despite the missed opportunities against Manchester United.

The Reds played to a 1-1 draw today at Anfield, but they dominated for nearly the entire game. They had three or four chances to end the game in the final couple minutes, but could not capitalize.

After seven months of rehabilitation, Steven Gerrard finally returned to the starting lineup for Liverpool, and he did not disappoint the home crowd. He tallied he first goal of the match in the 68th minute. He struck a free kick through the wall and right into the back of the net.

Liverpool received some good news before the match when Sir Alex Ferguson opted to bring Wayne Rooney off the bench instead of inserting him in the starting 11.

The first half was relatively calm, but Luis Suarez registered the only scoring chance of the first half.

Dirk Kuyt and Jordan Henderson both had opportunities to seal a victory for Liverpool, but were denied from David de Gea.

Either way you look at it, the match should be viewed as a success for Liverpool. Of course they wanted to come away with a victory, but they should be happy that they escaped with a point. Had Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez both started the match, things could have gone differently.

A point is a point, and the Reds should be extremely happy. They have experienced some up and downs so far this season, but they are proving that they are headed in the right direction with their effort in recent matches.

They were blown out by Tottenham just weeks ago, which could have spent the Reds season spiraling out of control.

They responded well though, they fought back and now are serious contenders in the English Premier League.

They outplayed Manchester United for nearly the entire match, and fans should be extremely happy with the team's performance as a whole.

Everybody wants their team to win, but Liverpool has a lot to take away from this match, and most of it is positive.