Liverpool Youngsters
Liverpool U18s signed off their 2024 league campaign with a dramatic 4-2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Kirkby Academy. In an action-packed encounter, the young Reds demonstrated their attacking flair, resilience, and tactical discipline to secure a well-deserved win, capping off an exciting year in the U18 Premier League.
Josh Sonni-Lambie, one of the standout performers, played a central role in the win, scoring the opener and providing the assist for the decisive fourth goal. Luca Furnell-Gill and Joe Bradshaw also found the back of the net, with Bradshaw bagging a brace to seal the victory in the dying moments.
This match was a testament to the talent and potential within Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s side as they look to carry momentum into 2025. Let’s dive into the key moments, standout performances, and tactical nuances from this thrilling contest.
First-Half Dominance and Early Goals
Liverpool began the game with energy and intent, setting the tone for a dominant first-half display. Within two minutes, Rio Ngumoha tested Wolves goalkeeper Josh Gracey with a low shot, giving an early glimpse of the Reds’ attacking ambitions.
Joe Bradshaw, who was a constant threat down the wing, whipped in a dangerous cross shortly afterward, though it narrowly missed the onrushing Liverpool attackers. The early exchanges were a showcase of Liverpool’s high-pressing game, as they sought to unsettle Wolves in possession.
The Reds eventually broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute through the impressive Josh Sonni-Lambie. His initial involvement in the build-up saw him send a well-weighted pass to Bradshaw on the flank. Bradshaw’s cross found Ngumoha, whose effort was saved by Gracey, but Sonni-Lambie reacted quickest to tap home the rebound.
Liverpool doubled their lead just after the half-hour mark with a clever set-piece routine. A short corner was played to Bradshaw, whose pinpoint cross was met by Luca Furnell-Gill. The defender’s towering header left Gracey with no chance, giving the Reds a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Wolves Fight Back Before Half-Time
Despite Liverpool’s dominance, Wolves showed their resilience as the half progressed. Mateus Mane emerged as a constant threat for the visitors, testing the Reds’ defense with his pace and clinical finishing.
After a warning sign in the 35th minute—when Mane was denied by goalkeeper Bailey Hall—the striker pulled one back for Wolves just before the break. A well-timed through ball split Liverpool’s defense, and Mane coolly slotted past Hall to make it 2-1 at half-time.
Second-Half Resurgence and Bradshaw’s Brilliance
The second half began with Wolves pushing for an equalizer, but Liverpool’s defensive organization held firm. Mane continued to trouble the backline, weaving through challenges on one occasion before being stopped by a last-ditch tackle.
Liverpool weathered the storm and restored their two-goal cushion in the 64th minute. Once again, it was Josh Sonni-Lambie at the heart of the action, threading a perfectly weighted pass to Bradshaw. The winger’s shot took a slight deflection before finding the back of the net, giving Liverpool a 3-1 advantage.
Substitute Lucas Clarke, who replaced captain Lucas Pitt in the 57th minute, made an immediate impact with a goal-line clearance to deny Wolves a potential equalizer. Clarke’s defensive contribution exemplified Liverpool’s determination to protect their lead.
As the game entered its final stages, the Reds had several opportunities to extend their advantage further. Luca Furnell-Gill, who had already scored once, saw Gracey brilliantly save his free header. Ngumoha, whose tireless running and creativity had been a highlight, was denied a goal when one-on-one with Gracey in the closing minutes.
Late Drama: Wolves Pull One Back, Liverpool Respond
In a tense finale, Wolves were reduced to 10 men when Myles Dayman received a second yellow card for a late challenge. Despite being a man down, the visitors managed to pull a goal back in stoppage time. Substitute Jake Wilcox rose highest to head home from a corner, bringing Wolves within one goal at 3-2.
However, any hopes of a dramatic comeback were swiftly dashed by Joe Bradshaw. Deep into added time, Sonni-Lambie produced a moment of magic, splitting Wolves’ defense with a perfectly timed through ball. Bradshaw raced onto the pass and showed great composure to lob the onrushing Gracey, securing his second goal of the game and Liverpool’s fourth.
The final whistle blew moments later, confirming a 4-2 victory for the young Reds and bringing their 2024 campaign to a triumphant close.
Standout Performers
Josh Sonni-Lambie
Sonni-Lambie was undoubtedly the star of the show, playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s victory. His vision, creativity, and technical ability were on full display, with a goal and two assists to his name. His ability to dictate play from midfield and deliver in crucial moments made him the standout performer.
Joe Bradshaw
Bradshaw’s tireless work on the flank and his knack for delivering dangerous crosses caused constant problems for Wolves. His two goals, including a late lob to seal the win, capped off a brilliant individual performance.
Luca Furnell-Gill
The defender not only contributed defensively but also scored a vital header from a set piece. His aerial ability and composure at the back were key to Liverpool’s success.
Rio Ngumoha
Though he didn’t find the back of the net, Ngumoha’s energy, creativity, and relentless pressing were instrumental in Liverpool’s attacking play. On another day, he might have had a goal or two to show for his efforts.
Tactical Insights
Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s tactical setup emphasized high pressing, quick transitions, and creativity in wide areas. The combination of Sonni-Lambie’s playmaking, Bradshaw’s dynamic runs, and Ngumoha’s off-the-ball movement overwhelmed Wolves for much of the game.
The use of overlapping full-backs, particularly Cam Williams on the left, provided width and created numerous opportunities in the final third. Liverpool’s set-piece routines were another highlight, with the second goal exemplifying their ability to capitalize on dead-ball situations.
Defensively, Liverpool remained organized despite occasional lapses, with players like Clarke stepping up to make crucial interventions when needed.
Looking Ahead to 2025
This win ensures Liverpool U18s enter the New Year on a high, with momentum firmly on their side. Their next fixture, an away clash with Nottingham Forest on January 11, will provide an opportunity to build on this performance and continue their push for success in the U18 Premier League.
With players like Sonni-Lambie, Bradshaw, and Ngumoha leading the charge, the future looks bright for Liverpool’s Academy. The combination of individual talent and cohesive team play suggests this group has the potential to make a significant impact in the coming months.
Conclusion
Liverpool U18s’ 4-2 victory over Wolves was a fitting end to their 2024 campaign. The match showcased the talent, determination, and attacking quality within the squad, with standout performances from Sonni-Lambie, Bradshaw, and others.
As the young Reds look ahead to 2025, this result will serve as a reminder of what they are capable of when firing on all cylinders. Fans can undoubtedly look forward to more exciting performances from this promising group of players in the year to come.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com