Liverpool’s hopes of a maiden away knockout victory in the UEFA Youth League were dashed once more as the under 19s fell to a 2-1 defeat against MSK Zilina in Slovakia, exiting at the round of 32 stage for a second successive year.
Rob Page’s youngsters made the perfect start when Kieran Morrison fired them ahead inside four minutes, but they were ultimately undone by a familiar tale of defensive vulnerability and physical disparity on a difficult surface in front of a hostile 10,000 strong crowd.
The absence of key defenders proved pivotal. With Carter Pinnington suspended and the influential Wellity Lucky sidelined by a hamstring injury, Liverpool’s rearguard struggled. In the three Youth League games Lucky had missed this season, the Reds had conceded 13 goals. That trend continued as stand ins Amara Nallo and Emmanuel Airoboma were caught out for Zilina’s winner, allowing Frantisek Kosa a clear run through on goal.
“It was a tough evening for the backline,” conceded one observer, with full back DJ Esdaille also given a torrid time. His poor clearance led to Fabian Bzdyl’s thunderous first half equaliser.
In midfield, the diminutive pairing of Joe Upton and 17 year old Hayden Murray Holme were overpowered, highlighting the missing physical presence of the suspended Pinnington. The Reds created little after their early goal, with only a late Morrison effort testing the keeper until a frantic final flurry.
Amid the disappointment, there were bright spots. Josh Sonni Lambie impressed with his creative tenacity in the number ten role, while 15 year old winger Josh Abe made a lively cameo off the bench on his competition debut, showcasing promising pace and close control.
For Liverpool’s Academy, it’s another lesson learned the hard way in Europe. The wait for an away knockout win goes on, and the focus now shifts to ensuring senior qualification for next season’s Champions League to grant this group another shot.
