Liverpool’s FA Cup dreams were dashed on a frustrating afternoon at Home Park as Championship side Plymouth Argyle claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory.
A second-half penalty from Ryan Hardie proved decisive, sending the Reds crashing out of the competition in a performance that lacked spark and cohesion.
From the outset, it was clear this would be a challenging day for Arne Slot’s much-changed side. Joe Gomez, making his return from a hamstring injury, lasted just 10 minutes before limping off, forcing 20-year-old Isaac Mabaya into an unexpected senior debut.
Liverpool dominated possession but struggled to break down a resolute Plymouth defense. Trey Nyoni’s blocked effort was their only shot in a tepid first half, while Plymouth threatened on the counter, testing Caoimhin Kelleher with dangerous crosses.
The game’s defining moment came in the 52nd minute when Harvey Elliott was penalized for handball. Hardie stepped up and coolly slotted the penalty past Kelleher, sending the Home Park crowd into raptures.
Slot responded by introducing Darwin Núñez and later handing 18-year-old Trent Kone-Doherty his debut, but Liverpool’s attack lacked urgency and precision. Federico Chiesa’s low cross found Luis Díaz, but his effort was blocked, summing up a day of frustration for the Reds.
Plymouth’s defense, marshaled by Nikola Katic and Maksym Talovierov, stood firm, repelling Liverpool’s late push. Nine minutes of stoppage time offered little hope as the Reds limped out of the FA Cup.
For Plymouth, it was a historic victory, a testament to their grit and organization. For Liverpool, it’s a bitter pill to swallow, with attention now turning to Wednesday’s Merseyside derby against Everton. Slot will demand a swift response as his side looks to reignite their season.
