U21s match report: Reds come back to beat Palace and reach PL2 play-offs last eight - Liverpool FC

The Reds fell two goals down in Sunday’s last-16 encounter in Kirkby, with Roshaun Mathurin and Noah Watson on the scoresheet.

But a stunning turnaround in the second half saw Kaide Gordon get the hosts back on level terms with a double, before Trey Nyoni delivered what proved to be the winner.

Fresh from a 5-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur – who topped the regular-season standings – on Monday night, Palace made a fast start at the Academy.

Fabian Mrozek had already saved a strike from Ademola Ola-Adebomi before the Liverpool goalkeeper conceded a penalty in the second minute.

But Mrozek made instantaneous amends by keeping out Mathurin’s spot-kick, aimed for the bottom left corner.

Barry Lewtas’ Reds were enjoying the greater share of possession, but the visitors were carving out the more dangerous chances – and Mrozek again denied Mathurin when the Palace forward got in an effort from close range.

The away side gained their second opportunity from the penalty spot in minute 35 as Mathurin was fouled inside the box by James McConnell.

Mathurin again stepped up to take responsibility from 12 yards and this time found the net with a strike into the same corner he had previously aimed for.

And, after Reds captain Gordon had seen a shot saved at the other end, the Eagles extended their advantage on the stroke of half-time.

Watson was the provider this time, beating Mrozek from the middle of the box to leave Liverpool needing to produce a big comeback after the break.