Arshavin hits four in Liverpool draw

By Martyn Herman

LONDON (Reuters) - Arsenal's Andrei Arshavin scored four goals in a pulsating 4-4 draw at Anfield on Tuesday to put a huge dent in Liverpool's Premier League title push.

For the second week running Liverpool shared eight goals, but while their thriller at Chelsea meant they exited the Champions League full of pride, they will rue the two points dropped against the Gunners despite going top of the table.

Liverpool have 71 points and are above Manchester United on goal difference but United have seven games remaining to Liverpool's five, starting at home to Portsmouth on Wednesday. Chelsea are third on 67, with Arsenal fourth on 62.

The lethal Arshavin, Arsenal's record signing, seemed to have won a rip-roaring contest after a quick counter-attack in the 90th minute only for Yossi Benayoun to grab a stoppage-time equaliser for Liverpool with his second goal of the night.

Fernando Torres also struck twice and had a late header cleared off the line as Liverpool threw everything forward. However, crucial mistakes at the back cost them dearly as they strive for a first English title since 1990.

"We made too many mistakes but we showed character and never gave up so that's a positive for the rest of the season," Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez told Sky Sports.

"It's difficult to explain. Maybe we were a bit nervous and had some anxiety but it's one more point against a good team.

"United are in the driving seat but we showed until the last minute that we fight and we will do until the last game."