Liverpool Under-21s were forced to settle for a point in their Premier League International Cup match with Braga.
The young Reds were held to a goalless draw with the Portuguese club at Kirkby on Wednesday night. Barry Lewtas’ side could not find a winner, despite having the advantage of an extra player for the majority of the contest.
The result leaves Liverpool in second place in Group C of the competition, two points behind leaders Everton who have won all three of their fixtures so far. The youngsters had previously earned wins over Dinamo Zagreb and Paris Saint-Germain in their other two group matches.
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There was early drama in the match, with Braga reduced to 10 men after Diogo Fonseca was shown a red card. The defender was sent off after a tussle with Bobby Clark which resulted in the Liverpool forward being forced to the ground.
Clark reacted to the challenge, which resulted in the teenager being shown a yellow card.
Liverpool were then dealt an injury blow, as Melkamu Frauendorf was forced off in the latter stages of the first half. Max Woltman, who had only recently returned from his loan at Doncaster Rovers, replaced the young midfielder.
The match would remain goalless, and Liverpool would drop their first points in the competition this season.
Liverpool U21s are next in action against Crystal Palace as their PL2 campaign continues. Their next Premier League International Cup fixture sees them face Hertha Berlin on Wednesday, February 1.
Liverpool U21 line-up: Mrozek; Jonas, Chambers, Olufunwa, Koumetio; Corness, Stephenson, Clark (sub, Cannonier); Frauendorf (sub, Woltman), Norris (sub, Pilling), Musialowski.
Subs: Kelly, Miles.
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