Another game, another draw. That’s four draws and a win now in the Premier League. Gabby Agbonlahor gave cause for optimism when he opened the scoring somewhat against the run of play during the first half, but Leon Best cancelled that out during a second half the visitors largely controlled.

Gabby has now equalled his league goal scoring record from last season, scoring three goals from just five games. Barry Bannan started in place of Emile Heskey and played on the right of a 4-4-2. Stiliyan Petrov looks a much better player given some freedom to get forward. Shay Given was outstanding and made a few crucial saves, one of them absolutely outstanding. Stephen Warnock gave everything he had.

Those are the positives.

Darren Bent clearly isn’t fit. He went close with a couple of efforts, but we’ve come to expect him to go closer. Like scoring. Charles N’Zogbia was disappointing. He’s yet to spark into action this season. Fabian Delph was bypassed in the centre far too easily when Petrov was in advanced positions.

Alex McLeish elected to withdraw Bannan and Petrov to bring on Stephen Ireland and Marc Albrighton. Petrov’s legs may have gone, but N’Zogbia and Delph must have looked at the fourth official’s board and expected to see their numbers displayed.

Ultimately, right now, a draw which maintains an unbeaten run would be far more acceptable if it felt like two points dropped at home, but this was definitely a point gained. The natives are getting restless.

However, last season we were disorganised and shipped sloppy goals while Houllier tried to implement too many changes too soon. Right now, we’re far more organised and disciplined. That’s not particularly exciting, but it’s a results business and it is at least something to build upon.

Assuming McLeish is looking to build on this. N’Zogbia has better form ahead of him, as does Bent. Bannan was encouraging, Albrighton tried to make things happen during his brief cameo. Hutton’s fitness isn’t there, but he can improve too. Jermaine Jenas might be able to bring some additional dynamism to the middle.

There is potential there, but QPR were able to really have a go at Newcastle last weekend, it’s shame we couldn’t follow their lead.