The reds will look at positives ahead of next week’s second leg clash at Anfield.
This was the reds 6th clean sheet in 7 games, as improvements continue to be made in what has been a problem area for the reds. The reds can also highlight the number of first team absentees, the continued wait for Andy Carroll and the cup tied Luis Suarez.
Liverpool were poor in attack – David Ngog may not find too many opportunities to shine at Liverpool – seemingly squeezed out by two new forwards at the club, and the emergence of younger more promising players.
The reds makeshift side started brightly, dominating possession as they continued to do for most of the game, but chances were few and very far between. It was arguably Glen Johnson who had the chance of the evening as his shot flicked with the outside of his right foot went narrowly wide.
Sparta had the better chances, generally against the run of play.
As the temperatures dipped below freezing, the game petered out in to a drab affair.
The decider kicks off at 6pm next Thursday.