Liverpool U18s Secure Comfortable Win with Goal of the Season Contender
Liverpool U18s put on an impressive display as they secured a comfortable 3-1 victory over Stoke City U18s. The match, which took place at the AXA Training Centre on January 13, 2023, saw Liverpool’s young talents shine.
Despite missing their top scorer, Jayden Danns, who was called up to the under-21s, Liverpool U18s dominated the game. The team made six changes from their previous FA Youth Cup win over Fleetwood, with Marc Bridge-Wilkinson opting for a back four consisting of Lucas Pitt, Francis Gyimah, Wellity Lucky, and Luca Furnell-Gill.
Although the entire team performed admirably, it was the forwards who stole the show in Danns’ absence. Keyrol Figueroa, Cody Pennington, and Kieran Morrison stepped up brilliantly and took charge of the game.
Liverpool’s opening goal came when Morrison played a brilliant pass to Pitt, who delivered a low cross into the six-yard box. Under pressure from Pitt, Stoke defender Syd Agina accidentally turned the ball into his own net.
Stoke City managed to equalize before halftime when Pedro Nzau headed in a corner that looped over Liverpool goalkeeper Kornel Misciur’s head. However, Liverpool quickly regained the lead with a stunning team goal that showcased individual brilliance.
Starting from the goalkeeper, Liverpool played the ball through midfield with precision before Morrison displayed his skill with multiple step overs. He then passed the ball to Pennington, who curled it into the top corner from outside the box after Figueroa cleverly dummied the ball.
In the closing stages of the game, Michael Laffey sealed Liverpool’s victory with a well-deserved goal. Laffey had been instrumental throughout the match in keeping Liverpool on the front foot.
The standout player of the game was undoubtedly Kieran Morrison, who received high praise from commentators Steve Hunter and Paul Dalglish. They even compared him to Curtis Jones, another talented player who came through Liverpool’s academy.
Liverpool U18s’ next challenge will be an FA Youth Cup fourth round tie against Arsenal on January 20. The team is expected to have some of their regular players back for this tougher test.
Lineup:
Liverpool U18s: Misciur; Pitt, Gyimah (Evers, 90+1), Lucky, Furnell-Gill; Trueman, Laffey, Pennington; Sonni-Lambi, Figueroa, Morrison
Subs not used: Morana, Kelly, Enahoro-Marcus, Airoboma
Next Match: Arsenal (H) – FA Youth Cup – January 20, 5.30pm (GMT)