Liverpool’s Under-18 squad, under the guidance of Simon Wiles, secured a vital win in the Premier League Cup against a strong Newcastle side. This match offered the young Reds a chance to bounce back after a heavy 6-3 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, and it was a stern test given Liverpool’s ninth-place standing in the U18 Premier League compared to Newcastle’s second position.
Liverpool began the game with authority, taking a two-goal lead within the first 30 minutes. The opener came from 15-year-old prodigy Josh Abe, whose impressive performances have already drawn attention from top clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea. Assisted by Josh Sonni-Lambie, Abe calmly finished to give Liverpool an early advantage.
Shortly after, Josh Sonni-Lambie doubled the lead himself, confidently scoring from outside the penalty area after an earlier near miss. The quick succession of goals allowed Liverpool to take firm control of the Premier League Cup clash and put significant pressure on the home side.
The second half saw Newcastle mount a strong response, eventually halving the deficit when Matthew Taylor headed past goalkeeper Bailey Hall with twenty minutes remaining, setting up a tense finale. Liverpool’s challenge increased further when Haydn Murray-Holme received a second yellow card, leaving the team to defend their slim lead with ten men.
Despite the late pressure, Liverpool held on to secure a 2-1 victory. While the win was not enough to advance in the Premier League Cup, finishing third in Group B, it serves as a major confidence boost. Coach Wiles and his squad can take pride in overcoming a top-tier side, showcasing the skill, resilience, and determination necessary to compete at the highest level in youth football
