A weakened Liverpool team end up on the wrong side of a 1-0 scoreline thanks to a freak deflected own goal off Martin Skrtel.
Raheem Sterling had another brief cameo but offered little
The reds paid the price for resting too many players ahead of this weekend's FA Cup Final as a first half own goal separated the two teams.
Alexander Doni, in goal ahead of the rested Pepe Reina, was wrong footed by the deflection off Martin Skrtel in what was an otherwise good display from Liverpool's backup keeper.
Despite Liverpool's first team putting in a decent 3-0 performance at the weekend, Dalglish made 9 changes to the starting XI - aware of the looming FA Cup Final in 4 days time.
But it wasn't just the team that were disappointing - the Anfield atmosphere was subdued and flat as the players and fans colluded in a poor performance.
It was in the fifth minute that John Arne Riise, applauded before kick off, sent in a cross that eventually deflected off Skrtel and past Doni.
It wasn't until half way through the first half that Dirk Kuyt fired the first vengeful shot from a player in red.
Hangeland cleared a Shelvey shot off the line and Schwarzer eventually dealt with a Carroll header in the other main chances of the half.
Liverpool proved wasteful in front of goal in the second half, putting chances wide and high, and failing to execute similar good positions from set pieces.
Dempsey could have sealed it for the visitors, but Doni picked the right corner and kept Liverpool in with a chance.
The reds dismal Premier League campaign continues, and we stay in 8th place. Liverpool supporters and followers will be hoping the return of the first teamers brings dividends in the cup final.