Liverpool's Under-23s endured a frustrating night on Monday, as Barry Lewtas' side were beaten 3-0 by Leeds United at Elland Road in Premier League 2.
The academy coach named a strong starting line-up with the likes of Kaide Gordon, Tyler Morton, Conor Bradley and Owen Beck all given the nod.
But they were unable to make it count and found themselves down to 10 men with 10 minutes left to play as Beck was sent off following a second yellow.
A first-half strike from Jack Jenkins and two late penalties in quick succession compounded a disappointing night for the young Reds, despite dominating the second-half.
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It was a frantic start to proceedings as, almost from the kick-off, Leeds were in and Marcelo Pitaluga was forced to make a save.
Things settled thereafter and both sides had spells on the ball, but it was Leeds that eventually found the breakthrough on the 30-minute mark, courtesy of Jack Jenkins.
It all started from Dutch international Crysencio Summerville, who continuously caused Liverpool problems down the right hand side across the 90 minutes.
His effort was initially saved by Pitaluga, but it was parried into the path of Jenkins who fired his side in front.
The best chance of the first half for the Reds fell to Morton as he timed his run well and some good control allowed him to burst free into the Leeds box.
One too many touches allowed the hosts to get back and his effort was subsequently blocked in a last-ditch effort.
It could've been 2-0 at half-time if not for a crucial interception from Rhys Williams, as once again Summerville was in acres of space and attempted to send a dangerous cross into the box.
The second half started much brighter for the young Reds.
Beck was able to evade numerous challenges from Leeds players and work the ball into the box before it eventually fell to Gordon, who fired an effort over the bar.
Liverpool lacked a quality in the final third, though, and their wastefulness proved to be costly as, against the run of play, Leeds were awarded a penalty with 10 minutes left on the clock.
Beck was handed a second yellow card for the offence and was sent off before Summerville scored from the spot.
Minutes later, Leeds were awarded another penalty. This time Leighton Clarkson was the offender as he too was booked for the challenge.
Max Dean sent Pitaluga the wrong way, ending a frustrating night for the young Liverpool side.
