体坛英语新闻：Liverpool tie 2-2 with Birmingham City with controversial penalty

LONDON, Nov. 10 (Xinhua) -- Liverpool drew 2-2 with Birmingham City at Anfield on Monday. But the one point is far less satisfying as they are 11 points behind Premier League leaders Chelsea.

    With the absence of star striker Fernando Torres due to a groin injury, David Ngog became the saver of Liverpool who had lost six out of their last eight games this season. The French forward gave the Reds an early lead by volleying home in the 13th minute before he earned a penalty when his side trailed 2-1.

    Ngog fell in the 70th minute after Lee Carsley reached his right leg. Although there seemed no body contact between the two players, the referee stoutly awarded a penalty kick for the hosts. Then the visitors' furious protest could not discourage Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard to slot in the equalizer.

    Christian Benitez headed for Birmingham City on 26 minutes before Cameron Jerome's unexpected long shot before half-time gave the visitors a lead.

    The half-fit Gerrard was forced to join the match from bench before the break as Albert Riera got hamstring problem. Rafa Benitez's side suffered more when Israeli mid Yossi Benayoun lamedout of the pitch in the 77th minute.