AcademyU18s match report: Liverpool narrowly beaten by Newcastle United in Kirkby

Jayden Danns had put the young Reds ahead early on in the U18 Premier League North contest but they were quickly pegged back by an equaliser from Sean Neave.

Thomas Bryant's finish late on in the first half and a superb performance from goalkeeper Aiden Harris then clinched the three points for the visitors.

The hosts had made a promising start and were rewarded with the opener after 16 minutes.

In a move that started at the back, Trey Nyoni perfectly clipped a ball over the top that found the run of Danns, who then calmly converted for his 12th goal of the season.

Afolami Onanuga nearly doubled the lead but watched his shot from inside the box go straight at Harris.

Liverpool were left to rue that missed opportunity as Newcastle responded well and turned the affair around.

For 1-1, Neave twisted and turned inside the area before stroking the ball past Kornel Misciur.

And they went ahead six minutes prior to half-time when Bryant finished from close range following a slick move involving Neave and Trevan Sanusi.

PHOTOS

By John Powell

The Reds' response after the break was encouraging as Harris was called into action to deny multiple efforts from Kieran Morrison and Onanuga in quick succession.

They continued to apply the pressure but then found difficulty in creating clear-cut chances to test Harris more.

Liverpool's goalkeeper was required to keep the game alive, Misciur saving well in a one-on-one situation with Joe Brayson off a counter-attack.

Harris frustrated Marc Bridge-Wilkinson's side twice late on to ultimately secure the win for Newcastle.

He pulled off a good low save to keep out a powerful hit from substitute Cody Pennington and then was at full stretch to tip away an effort from Nyoni in the final attack of the match.

TEAM

Liverpool U18s: Misciur, Furnell-Gill, Gyimah, Lucky, Trueman, Laffey (Pitt, 46), Morrison (Sonni-Lambie, 64), Onanuga, Danns, Nyoni, Young (Pennington, 64).

Unused subs: Morana, Kelly.

NEXT UP

Liverpool are at home next Saturday when they host Middlesbrough.

The league clash kicks off at 12.30pm GMT and can be watched live on LFCTV and LFCTV GO.