Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez said his side had been unfairly denied a win after Steven Gerrard's early effort was disallowed in the 0-0 draw with Stoke.
The midfielder's free-kick was ruled out by referee Andre Marriner, but television replays failed to pick up any infringements in the penalty box.
"Nobody knows why the effort was ruled out," fumed Benitez.
"The referee told Jamie Carragher that it had been his decision, not the linesman's. It was a massive mistake."
Gerrard's right-footed inswinging free-kick found the back of the net after just 76 seconds, evading team-mate Dirk Kuyt and onrushing Stoke keeper Thomas Sorensen.
The England international turned to celebrate what he believed was his 100th goal for Liverpool, but failed to notice the assistant referee's raised flag.
Replays indicated Kuyt had been onside when the ball was played, adding further confusion as to why the goal was disallowed.
Despite their early setback, Liverpool created a host of chances, but were continually thwarted by a spirited defensive display from their newly promoted opponents.
And Stoke boss Tony Pulis admitted his side had been fortunate to benefit from the early disallowed goal.
"I was delighted with our performance, my players fought for everything," he said.
"And we had a little luck. We got a decision at Anfield that went our way! "But I don't know why that early effort was ruled out.
"It certainly was not for offside, I have been told by people who have seen the replay that Kuyt was not offside.
"Well, I'm not going to argue with us getting some luck here."
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