PLAYER RATINGS: LIVERPOOL U19 2-0 ATLETICO MADRID U19

Liverpool’s U19s chalked up victory in the UEFA Youth League today as they beat Atletico Madrid 2-0. The Young Reds pressed from the first whistle to last, an effort that would make coach Wilkinson very happy. They were all over their opponents and didn’t let their heads go down after a missed penalty. Goals from Woltman and Quansah sealed the win. Read on for player ratings from the game.

Mrozek – 6

A quiet afternoon for the Pole in goal. Atleti’s only shot on target was cleared off the line late on by a defender. Mrozek commanded his area and caught crosses well enough. His distribution was also assured.

Bradley – 9

He was full of energy on the right, pressing high and winning his battles down that flank. He was switched on defensively too and was typically first to every ball down his side. His running power was impressive today.

Quansah – 9

The skipper came up trumps in the second half, sweeping home a finish to double his side’s advantage after a corner was deflected into his path. He was rock solid at the back too and swept up any danger Atleti were able to muster up.

Koumetio – 8

His diagonal passing radar was a bit off first half, but he made up for it with a defence splitting pass to open the game up for his side. It allowed Woltman open the scoring to reward all the excellent approach play. Saw a header from a corner cleared off the line. One or two nervy moments first half.

Beck – 9

Like Bradley on the other side, Owen Beck enjoyed an impressive performance from fullback. He put in several well timed tackles to put an end to dangerous Atleti attacks. Going forward he was making run after run into the final third to support Frauendorf ahead of him. Even saw a right footed curler go just over the bar.

Stephenson – 9

As the shield infront of the defence, Stephenson combined tough tackling and a eye for a pass as he completely dominated the midfield battle. Always on the scene to hoover up any loose ball, and had the awareness to pick a forward pass when needed too. Excellent performance considering he was booked in the first half.

Balagizi – 9.5

My Man of the Match. He ran rings around the Atleti midfield, with his combination of strength, quick feet and dazzling skills. Won the penalty with a lovely turn. Completed so many take-ons, and not just for the sake of it, as he progressed the ball to get his forwards involved. Stuck to his defensive duties late on when Atleti tried to rally. Surely won’t be long till he makes his first team debut.

Norris – 7

Worked ever so hard, almost led the press at times. Worked himself into the ground and caused the defence a number of problems with his movement and relentlessness.

Gordon – 8

The 17 year old was lively down the right, making several dangerous runs into the box and unlucky not to find the net or provide an assist for a teammate. Was subbed at halftime, possibly pre-planned as he only recently returned from injury.

Woltman – 8

The number nine missed a penalty and could have spent the rest of the game cursing his luck but he kept going. Denied again by the goalkeeper when his fierce drive was kept out. He finally made amends when he pirouetted beautifully away from his man and slotted home.

Frauendorf – 7

Played on the left wing and was also unlucky not to score as he saw his effort turned away by the keeper. Flitted in and out of the game second half. Wasn’t as forceful as Gordon on the other side, often going for the safe pass.

Substitutes

Blair – 8

On for Kaide Gordon at halftime, the winger was involved throughout. Went on one mazy run where his shot was smothered by the goalkeeper.

Corness – N/A

Kept up the pressing mantra when he came on in second half.

Cannonier – N/A

On late on to help see it out.

Liverpool U19s now sit 2nd in Group B of the UEFA Youth League. With two games to go, the young Reds have 7 points, 3 behind group leaders Porto and 3 ahead of Atletico Madrid. Next up: Porto [H]