Liverpool U21s fell to a 2-1 defeat against Manchester United in Premier League 2 on Sunday afternoon, with a late strike deciding the contest at the AXA Training Centre.
The young Reds made a bright start and took the lead after 11 minutes. Debutant Joe Bradshaw combined neatly with Lucas Pitt down the right, and although Bradshaw’s shot was saved, Michael Laffey arrived from midfield to head in the rebound.
Liverpool looked the sharper side in the opening stages, with Laffey and Trent Kone-Doherty linking well to test United goalkeeper William Murdock. But the visitors levelled before half-time when Chido Obi finished off a quick counter-attack.
The second half brought chances for both teams. United’s Jaydan Kamason struck the bar with a header, while Keyrol Figueroa was denied by a last-ditch block after good build-up play from Bradshaw and Laffey. Kone-Doherty remained a constant threat on the left and came close to creating a second when his cross led to Bendito Mantato hitting the woodwork.
United finished strongly, with Shea Lacey and Obi both going close before Kamason eventually found the winner on 81 minutes, pouncing on a rebound after Armin Pecsi had made an excellent save.
Szoboszlai was among those watching on as his fellow Hungarian, Pecsi, made several important stops to keep Liverpool in the game, but the young Reds could not find a late equaliser.
Liverpool U21s XI: Pecsi, Pitt, Pinnington, Lucky, Miles (Ramsay 58), Trueman (Onanuga 58), Bradshaw (Airoboma 80), Davidson (Ahmed 80), Figueroa, Laffey, Kone-Doherty.
Unused sub: Hall.
What’s Next: Liverpool U21s travel to Ipswich Town on Friday evening in Premier League 2 (7pm BST kick-off).
