Al Habsi the hero as Latics deny Reds

NOT content with providing a one-man barrier to prevent an eighth Liverpool away win in nine games, Wigan’s outstanding goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi even had the nerve to grab the shirt off Luis Suarez’s back.

The Liverpool forward was unable to inspire his side to victory at the end of a turbulent 24 hours for the Uruguayan, whose agent confirmed during the game that he will appeal against his eight-match ban and a £40,000 fine after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra at Anfield in October.

On the subject of penalties, it was the one saved by Al Habsi from Charlie Adam six minutes into the second half that proved pivotal in this open, engaging encounter, the keeper guessing correctly to block the Scot’s well-struck spot kick with a firm right hand as he dived to his left.