Yesterday’s instantly forgettable encounter saw both teams have only one shot on target each.

The nearest Liverpool came was when Martin Skrtel headed Steven Gerrard’s corner wide from close range towards the end of the first half, although Benitez believes Benayoun could have had a penalty when the Israeli instead chose to play on when caught by Pablo Zabaleta in the area.

“I am frustrated we couldn’t get the winner,” said the Anfield manager. “It was a difficult game. Neither team had clear chances. We had more possession and were lacking the final pass in the final third could make the difference.

“Today both teams were defending well and were well-organised. We tried to create and had some chances where the final pass could have made the difference.

“I think at the end we were more in control, passing the ball with (Alberto) Aquilani, I think we had plenty of possession.

“They could be a threat on the counter-attack but we had more control and also the situation with Yossi maybe with the penalty, so I think we were close at the end to winning the game. Yossi thought it was a penalty but was trying to play on. Sometimes it is good in terms of fair play and sometimes it is bad for the result. He was trying to play on, you can’t blame the player, he was trying to score and go forward.”

Liverpool are facing a fine from the Football Association after picking up six bookings yesterday. However, City’s players received none and Benitez said: “I’m surprised we had so many bookings.”