Liverpool Defeated by Preston North End in Pre-Season Friendly
Liverpool Defeated by Preston North End in Pre-Season Friendly
Liverpool faced a narrow 1-0 defeat against Preston North End in a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly at the AXA Training Centre. The match marked the debut of new head coach Arne Slot, who took charge of the senior team earlier this summer. Despite the sunny weather in Kirkby, the Reds were unable to convert their chances, with Robbie Brady’s long-range goal securing the win for Preston.
Arne Slot’s First Game in Charge Ends in Defeat
Arne Slot’s first game as Liverpool’s head coach ended in a 1-0 defeat. The Reds had several promising chances, especially in the first half, but couldn’t find the back of the net. Ben Doak had an early opportunity, only to be blocked by Brad Potts. Mohamed Salah came close with a volley that narrowly missed the target, while Harvey Elliott and Conor Bradley saw their efforts deflected just wide. Salah’s assist to Elliott was thwarted by Preston goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, who made a crucial save.
Robbie Brady’s Stunning Goal Decides the Match
The decisive moment came just before the half-hour mark when Robbie Brady intercepted a pass and launched a powerful shot from distance. The ball sailed over Liverpool goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros and went in off the upright, giving Preston a 1-0 lead. Despite making 10 changes at halftime, Liverpool couldn’t break down Preston’s defense. Luke Chambers and Lewis Koumas both missed chances, and Trey Nyoni’s shot was blocked in the box. Kaide Gordon’s low volley was also saved by Preston’s keeper, ensuring their victory.
Liverpool to Focus on Upcoming USA Tour
With the defeat behind them, Liverpool now shifts their focus to their three-match tour of the USA, which starts on Tuesday. The team aims to regroup and refine their strategies under Arne Slot’s guidance. The friendly against Preston provided valuable minutes for 25 players, offering insights into the squad’s strengths and areas needing improvement. Fans can watch Liverpool’s upcoming matches live on LFCTV GO and enjoy a free month’s subscription.
Liverpool Line-Up Details
For the first half, Liverpool’s lineup included: Jaros, Bradley, Van den Berg, Quansah, Tsimikas, Jones, Elliott, Szoboszlai (replaced by Endo at 33 minutes), Doak, Salah, and Carvalho. The second half saw a completely different team: Davies, Stephenson, Nallo, Phillips, Chambers (replaced by Beck at 75 minutes), Endo (replaced by Nyoni at 75 minutes), Bajcetic, Morton, McConnell, Koumas (replaced by Blair at 75 minutes), and Gordon.
Liverpool’s performance in this friendly match highlights the need for further refinement and cohesion under new head coach Arne Slot as they prepare for the upcoming season and their tour in the USA.
