Liverpool U21's show 'character' in shootout win over Rochdale

Rob Page, the manager of Liverpool U21, praised the character and resilience of his young team after they secured a win over Rochdale in a Jersey Mike's Trophy match. The match ended in a 3-3 draw, but Liverpool emerged victorious in the penalty shoot-out, 7-6, to earn a bonus point.

Early in the first half, Liverpool was reduced to 10-men following Mor Talla Ndiaye's sending off. Despite being down a man, the team demonstrated great character and resilience, playing as much as they could with reduced numbers. Page expressed his pride in the group, stating it was the proudest he had been of them since taking the job in 2025.

The scoring began when Devante Rodney put Rochdale ahead in the first half. Liverpool equalised before halftime through a brilliant solo goal from Will Wright. However, Rochdale scored twice in quick succession in the second half, with 41-year-old Ian Henderson being the chief culprit.

However, the young Reds refused to give up. Substitutes Ben Trueman and Josh Sonni-Lambie scored in the 94th and 96th minute, respectively, to level the score. In the penalty shoot-out, Harvey Davies saved a penalty from the Rochdale goalkeeper, sealing the win for Liverpool.