Liverpool lost 1-0 away at Swansea to condemn Kenny Dalglish’s side to their worst-ever Premier League finish.

A late strike from Danny Graham was enough for the Welsh side, but it was a dull contest with neither side having enough meaningful efforts on goal and a lack of tempo and quality throughout.

Dalglish made two changes to the side that comprehensively beat Chelsea in midweek with goalkeeper Doni and Matin Kelly coming in for the ill Pepe Reina and Martin Skrtel, whilst Swansea chief Brendan Rogers recalled Leon Britton in place of Mark Gower following last weekend’s loss at Manchester United.

Going in to the game Liverpool knew that only a win would give them the chance to finish above city rivals Everton, whilst their hosts had an outside chance of finishing in the top-half in their debut season in the Premier League.

The Swans had the first best chance in a first half devoid of clear-cut chances as Liverpool youngster Jonjo Shelvey was robbed on the ball in midfield Joe Allen’s cross-come-shot was just out of the reach of top-scorer Danny Graham.

The Welsh side enjoyed plenty of early possession and came close to opening the scoring when Joe Allen dispossessed Shelvey, only to drag his shot across Doni.

Doni, who did not impress in his last outing either, was then booked for picking up an Andy Carroll backpass.

The Reds struggled with Swansea’s dominance, but Maxi Rodriguez created himself a half-chance, but, like Allen, made a hash of his shot when under pressure.

The Swans were unlucky not to go ahead before the break when Gylfi Sigurdsson’s shot was blocked on the line by the Argentine.

The visitors showed more purpose at the start of the second period and in-form striker Andy Carroll nearly opened the scoring with an impressive bicycle kick, however Swans keeper Michel Vorm was equal to the effort.

Craig Bellamy then went close after taking advantage of hesitation from Neil Taylor, but flashed his shot wide, before Carroll was again denied by Vorm.

The game looked set to finish goalless until Graham found half a yard of space in the area and finished cooly after being found by a cute pass from full back Angel Rangel.

The victory saw the Swans finish just five points behind the Anfield club, who will be looking to add to their squad over the summer after a disappointing league campaign.