Liverpool booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup by beating Preston North End 2-0 in a game that was certainly not without its challenges, but gave some fringe stars the chance to impress.
Jurgen Klopp changed his entire lineup from the weekend’s 5-0 thrashing of Manchester United, giving opportunities to many of his lesser-used players and some academy prospects.
Even though the XI he sent out was still strong enough, Preston had the better of the first half. They were unlucky not to take the lead just before the half-hour mark after a triple chance.
Liverpool had plenty of possession but the best chances fell to the hosts before the break.
There was more intent from Klopp’s men after the restart and they were able to calm any nerves when taking the lead just beyond the hour mark.
Neco Williams crossed for Takumi Minamino, who converted in mid-air from close range.
Despite their earlier confidence, there was little threat of a Preston comeback afterwards.
A second goal removed any doubt within the final 10 minutes. Kostas Tsimikas clipped the woodwork with a cross, before Williams brought the ball back infield and Divock Origi brilliantly finished with a flick.
Not everyone who came into the Liverpool lineup took their chance, but here are some of those who did.
Neco Williams
As deputy to one of the best right-backs in the world, Trent Alexander-Arnold, chances are limited for Neco Williams. Questions have been raised about his suitability for Liverpool in the long term.
On this occasion, though, the Wales international gave a good account of himself.
He put his body on the line with a goalline clearance via his face to keep the score at 0-0 in the first half. Then, in the second half, he played a major part in the opening goal.
Having moved further forward following the introduction of Conor Bradley, Williams exploited a space on the wing to create the chance for Minamino.
GOAL!
Takumi Minamino gets on the end of Neco Williams’…
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