Beale: Let's learn defensive lessons
Liverpool U21s take on Reading at the Madejski Stadium on Monday night with boss Michael Beale hoping his young side have learnt a harsh lesson having let a three-goal lead slip in the mini-derby last week.
After being in total charge of the clash with Everton, the Reds were 3-0 up but they lost concentration and allowed the Blues to come back and gain a 3-3 draw.
An almost identical situation unfolded in the final match of last season at Anfield when the U21s were three goals up, only to end up drawing 4-4 with Norwich City.
Beale insists lessons have to be learned in how to preserve a healthy lead.
“The same thing happened against Norwich in our final game of last season - we need every player to help and defend as a team,” Beale told Liverpoolfc.com.
“Our attacking players do so well to get us in front in games but they’ve got to make sure they don’t leave the game early in terms of their defensive responsility.
“As a group we weren’t happy after the game in midweek and we are looking for a response on Monday night.”
The U21s squad was boosted last Wednesday night with the inclusion of Jordan Rossiter, Joao Carlos Teixeira and Tiago Ilori in the starting XI.
Beale added: “Attacking-wise I was really pleased with our first-half display. We created a number of chances and looked really sharp. If we had scored five or six goals in the first 45 minutes I don’t think anyone would have questioned how much we deserved it.
“I think the goal Everton scored just before half-time came at the right time for them via a really unfortunate deflection, and then the last two goals we conceded were very soft.
“It does happen from time to time, but we are more concerned that it has happened to us in two games.
“We are certainly not going to dwell on it as I think that would be wrong. We spoke about it as a group in our meeting on Saturday and we will draw a line under it and move on.”
Tonight’s clash with the young Royals kicks-off at 7pm BST, and for some of Beale’s young charges, a trip back to Madejski Stadium brings back painful memories.
On a night of so many emotions, Liverpool crashed out of the FA Youth Cup after being eliminated on penalties after an incredible 4-4 draw.
"It’s a lovely stadium to play at and a lot of our players played in that incredible FA Youth Cup tie a couple of years ago," said Beale.
“I also remember their U21s coming to Anfield and they were one of the best sides we have played, so we are under no illusions because this will be a very tough game.
“We will try and play our usual attacking game but hopefully this time concede less than we did the other day.”