London, Jan 12 (IANS) Manchester City slumped to their second home defeat this season after a 0-1 loss to Liverpool in the first leg of their semi-final tie in the Carling Cup.

Captain Steven Gerrad slotted home a penalty in 13th minute after defender Stefan Savic hacked down Daniel Agger in the box at the Ettihad Stadium here Wednesday.

City put in a lacklustre performance following their 2-3 loss to neighbours Manchester United in the FA Cup. The loss of captain Vincent Kompany to a four match ban and star midfielder Yaya Toure who left for for the African Cup of Nations seems to have played a key role in the back-to-back defeats at the Etihad Stadium.

City lacked creativity in the midfield and hardly troubled Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina. The homeside were lucky not to have conceded more goals thanks to some brilliant saves made by England International Joe Hart.

Manager Roberto Mancini has more reasons to worry with striker Mario Balotelli hobbling of the pitch in the 37th minute. However, City still has a chance to make it to the finals of the Carling Cup provided they overcome the one goal deficit away at Anfield in the second leg.