The Liverpool youngsters faced a tough Man City side today at the Academy, with Neil Critchley's side looking to continue their impressive season and put a stop to this impressive Man City side. Liverpool fielded a young side, with skipper Randall, and flying winger Kent starting for the U21s last night in a thrilling encounter at Anfield.
Firth got a place in goals for Liverpool, ahead of the highly impressive duo of Crump and Fulton, while Waldron and Roberts took their places at fullback. Cleary was reunited with his centre back partner, Brewitt, who is returning after picking up an injury while captaining his nation last week. Highly rated U16 star, Virtue came into the side, lining up next to Irish born, O Hanlon and the promising Adam Phillips. Trickett-Smith, Ojo and Hart made up the front 3. Harry Wilson missed today's game, with an injury, the Welsh international was on the sidelines, spectating on the game. The visitors fielded a strong side, as ever, with Byrne and Boadu being touted as potential danger men for Neil Critchley's side.
City started the brighter of the two sides, with this experienced bunch of players having the edge over Liverpool. However, the reds did take the lead, against the run of play, when O Hanlon fired in a volley, to give the home side an unexpected lead.
Adam Phillips was forced off during the first half, with U16 captain, Griffin, replacing him. Throughout the first half, Liverpool were grateful for the heroic stops by keeper Andy Firth, who led his team into half time with an impressive 1-0 lead.
Half time came and went, but not much had changed, with City continuing to dominate the game, however, Liverpool looked the most dangerous team, with Alex O Hanlon breaking on the counter attack. Ojo saw his costless kick, sail over the bar.
City got what they deserved when Barker slipped his shot past keeper Firth, to draw the score level. City were dominant for the course of the endeavour, but with the second half in full flow, the game began to open up, resulting in two goals in 15 minutes for the visitors, this time Celina getting the plaudits, with a furious shot, giving Firth no chance.
The game filtered out, with both sides making plenty of substitutes, the game ended with City going top of the league, a huge feat for the young lads, who hope to evaluate the success of the first team, and end the season with silverware.