Manchester United produced another resolute containing job at Anfield to hold liverpool to a 0-0 draw in the Premier league on Saturday, as the "clasico" of English soccer proved a let-down once again.
The match-up between England's two most decorated teams turned into a dull stalemate, just like 12 months ago at the same stadium.
And just like last season, United had David De Gea to thank for preserving a point.
In one of the few genuine openings created all match, the Spain goalkeeper stuck out his left boot to turn away Joel Matip's effort from point-blank range.
Otherwise, liverpool controlled possession but couldn't pierce the wall of white United jerseys set up by coach Jose Mourinho, whose players carried out his game plan to the letter.
"For sure you could not play this way at liverpool," liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said, "but it's OK for Manchester United."
Mourinho usually adopts a cautious approach in big away matches and he reverted to type again, stationing Ander Herrera in front of United's back four alongside Nemanja Matic and ensuring wingers Anthony Martial and Ashley Young screened their full backs behind them.
It got the intended result, though Mourinho said United came for a win but retreated in the second half because he couldn't make any midfield substitutions to freshen up his team with Paul Pogba, Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick out injured.
Mourinho said he was also surprised Klopp didn't change formation or make more attacking substitutions.
United, which stayed unbeaten, dropped points for only the second time this season and failed to score for the first time.
It was reminiscent of the 0-0 draw almost exactly 12 months ago, but at least there was some goalmouth action this time.
It is only one win in the last five league games for liverpool, which missed the pace and movement of injured winger Sadio Mane.
Chelsea stunned by crystal palace
There was finally something to celebrate for Crystal Palace, which upset Chelsea 2-1 to register its first points and goals of the season.
With Chelsea losing for the second straight game, third-placed Tottenham leads the chase to the Manchester clubs after beating Bournemouth 1-0 for a first league win at its temporary home of Wembley Stadium in four attempts.
Ronaldo scores in real’s win
MADRID: Cristiano Ronaldo saved Real Madrid from another setback in the Spanish league by scoring late to beat Getafe 2-1 on Saturday.
Ronaldo's 85th-minute winner from inside the area came after a perfect long pass by Isco. He let the ball bounce in front of him and fired into the far corner to keep Madrid near the top of the standings.
It was the first league goal for Ronaldo, who had been ineffective during most of the match at Alfonso Perez Coliseum in southern Madrid.
The victory moved Madrid to within four points of leader Barcelona, which visited fifth-placed Atletico Madrid later Saturday.