AcademyU21s match report: Liverpool edged out by Blackburn in PL2

A fifth-minute goal proved the difference between the sides at the Lancashire FA County Ground, despite both creating a number of chances.

Zak Gilsenan delivered that winner for Rovers, beating Oscar Kelly in the Reds goal with a finish from inside the area that found the right corner of the net.

Kelly saved a series of efforts from Igor Tyjon as Blackburn tried to build upon the opener, while Bobby Clark and Lewis Koumas threatened in the other direction.

Liverpool were in the ascendancy in the remainder of the first half and Koumas was again close before Kaide Gordon saw several attempts denied.

Barry Lewtas’ side enjoyed the majority of the ball and would end the match with 24 shots, but continued to meet stubborn resistance from Rovers after the interval.

There was the pleasing sight, however, of Harvey Blair returning to action from the bench – it was the forward’s first match involvement since mid-December.

Kelly had to save from Tyjon and Harrison Wood in the second half, while Koumas was off target from close range after a Reds corner and Gordon repeatedly involved in attacks – but Blackburn held firm to take all three points.

TEAM

Liverpool U21s: O. Kelly, Nallo (Davidson, 62), Miles, Williams, Pinnington, McConnell (Pilling, 77), Gordon, Nyoni, Koumas (Frauendorf, 74), Clark, Kone-Doherty (Blair, 62).

Unused sub: Poytress.

NEXT UP

A trip to Old Trafford awaits the U21s next Friday (April 12) in Premier League 2. Kick-off is 7.30pm BST and you can watch the game live on LFCTV GO.