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Liverpool U19 v Ajax U19

14 March 2012
NextGen Series, Semi Final
Liverpool U19 0 Ajax U19 6 (att 6,000)

An unusual fixture, but the main attraction for me was the chance to see a game at St Helens' new rugby league stadium Langtree Park. Whether or not St Helens Town will ever play football matches here, as I believe was originally the intention, remains to be seen, but it seems more likely to become a regular venue for Liverpool's reserve games.

It certainly captured the imagination of supporters. The kick off was delayed 30 minutes, from the scheduled 7pm, to get the crowds in as long queues formed outside those turnstiles offering cash admission.

Once the action finally got underway it didn't take long for Ajax to take control. They were goal up inside 10 minutes, Liverpool missed a penalty soon after, and Ajax scored again before half time.

Ajax's third was soon after half time, and for a spell Liverpool's youngsters appeared to give up, with the visitors looking like scoring with every attack. They managed three more, one a penalty, to give Liverpool a harsh lesson.

Some of Ajax's neat and quick passing was delightful, and when passes went astray it was notable how hard they worked, and how well they tackled, to regain possession. Liverpool created chances, mostly in the first half, but their finishing let them down, whereas the visitors were clinical in front of goal.

Langtree Park is a nice enough ground. Two seated stands, with covered terracing a both ends, and it blends in well with the adjacent Tesco built as part of the development deal.




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