Brendan Rodgers: Liverpool defeat a 'setback', says manager

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says Monday's Premier League defeat by West Brom was a missed opportunity.

Late goals from Gareth McAuley and Romelu Lukaku gave the Baggies a 2-0 win at Anfield.

The result left Liverpool 12 points off Tottenham in the last Champions League spot and eight points behind potential Europa League qualifiers Everton.

"It's a setback," said Rodgers. "We see our home games as real opportunities, especially in the form we're in."

He added: "The effort was terrific, but the ball never fell for us. We probably should have got more from the game."

Liverpool came into the match after two confidence-building draws against Arsenal and Manchester City.

Following a sluggish start, they built up pressure in the second half before the game's pivotal moment came when Steven Gerrard's penalty was saved by Ben Foster on 77 minutes and then McAuley opened the scoring four minutes later.

Rodgers was quick to praise former Manchester United goalkeeper Foster for denying his side.

"He's shown why he has played at a top club and played for England," Rodgers said. "He's an outstanding shot-stopper and his agility was fantastic and that's what got them the points.

"We had opportunities, lots of pressure, lots of efforts on goal but couldn't quite make the breakthrough."

On Gerrard's penalty miss, Rodgers added: "I always admire people who have the courage and bravery to step up and take the penalty. Steven was terrific and it's unfortunate for him."