Liverpool U21s
In an encouraging pre-season fixture, Liverpool’s U21s, under the guidance of head coach Barry Lewtas, claimed a 2-0 victory against Chorley FC. This match, held on Saturday afternoon, marked the team’s first outing of the summer in front of their supporters. Goals from Calum Scanlon and Ranel Young secured the win for the Reds against the Vanarama National League North side, showcasing the potential and readiness of the squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.
A Test of Resilience and Skill
Lewtas expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting the importance of these match minutes in building fitness and cohesion within the squad. Reflecting on the game, he noted the resilience his team displayed, particularly in handling Chorley’s direct style of play. “Yeah, 100 per cent,” he told Liverpoolfc.com regarding the importance of the match. “We only conceded from a late set-piece against Tranmere, so the lads are showing a real resilience [in] that part of the game.”
Chorley’s approach provided a stern test for the young Reds, who managed to compete effectively and adapt to the physical and tactical demands of the game. Lewtas praised his team’s ability to manage the ball well in the first half, despite not creating enough clear-cut chances. However, he noted an improvement in the second half, where the team showed better control and created more opportunities. “We got in behind a lot more in the second half and had a lot more control. Overall, we have to be pleased,” he added.
Blending Experience with Youth
One of the key aspects Lewtas emphasized was the diverse age range within the team, a characteristic feature of U21 squads. This mix of youth and experience is crucial in developing young talents while providing them with guidance and support from more seasoned players. “It’s typical 21s. It’s a complete mix,” Lewtas explained. “I highly doubt that’ll be the team we put out first day of the season. We’ve always been successful with the way we’ve done it in terms of the lads on loan and the lads coming up.”
The head coach highlighted the importance of older players in mentoring younger teammates who have recently joined the group full-time. This blend not only helps in the development of individual players but also strengthens the team as a whole. “I think some of the older boys that have been around have been able to help some of the younger lads who have moved into the group full-time.
They’re experienced, they’ve been in the league, and they’ve played games and know what the 21s is about,” Lewtas said. “It was a lovely blend of younger players and players a little bit more senior but certainly it’s something to give us a bit of a platform to start the season.”
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Opportunities in the Senior Team
Pre-season is not just a time for physical preparation but also an opportunity for young talents to impress and earn their place in the senior team. Several U21 players have had the chance to join the senior squad’s pre-season tour in the USA, a development Lewtas views positively.
“I got up early and watched it. It was nice to watch,” he said, referring to the senior team’s match against Real Betis. “Obviously a number of them came on early [against Real Betis] or came on later in the second half. I think pre-season has always been a really good time for us. It’s a chance to get new boys with us, which freshens it up and obviously we can help some of the lads who maybe want to go on loan.”
This exposure to the senior environment is invaluable for young players, offering them a taste of higher-level football and the chance to showcase their skills on a bigger stage. Lewtas was proud of how well his players performed and represented themselves and the club. “But there’s always been an opportunity for the young lads and it’s great to see so many familiar faces out there. I thought they performed well and did themselves proud,” he noted.
Managing a Large Squad
The depth of talent within the U21 squad is both a strength and a challenge for Lewtas and his coaching staff. Pre-season often highlights the abundance of players available, including those out on loan, and managing this large group requires careful planning and flexibility. “We had a big bench as well! We’ve spoken as a staff around that,” Lewtas commented. “I think there’s certain parts of the season where our group might be a little bit short on numbers, or there might be a few injuries and I think people forget how many players we have out on loan.”
The pre-season period is a time for evaluating players, giving opportunities to new arrivals, and preparing for the variability of the upcoming season. Lewtas acknowledged the different journeys each player is on, with some looking to secure loan moves while others aim to break into the first team. “When they’re all in the building there’s a lot of good footballers about but the reality is everyone has a journey that is that little bit different, so when the season starts let’s see where they all are,” he concluded.
Looking Ahead to the Season
As the U21s continue their pre-season preparations, the victory over Chorley FC serves as a positive indicator of what lies ahead. The blend of youth and experience, the resilience displayed, and the opportunities for players to step up to the senior team all contribute to a promising start. Lewtas and his coaching staff will be looking to build on this performance, refine their tactics, and ensure that the squad is ready for the challenges of the new season.
The focus now shifts to further pre-season fixtures and training sessions, where the team will continue to gel and develop. Each match provides a chance to test different combinations, strategies, and individual skills, all aimed at achieving success in the competitive season ahead. With a strong foundation laid in the victory against Chorley, Liverpool’s U21s are set to embark on a season filled with potential and promise.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
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