NewsFA Youth Cup reaction: 'We're all proud of that performance'

The young Reds booked their place in round five of the prestigious competition with a scintillatingly clinical showing at the Kirkby Academy.

Lewis Koumas scored either side of a Gunners equaliser during the first half and went on to complete a hat-trick for Bridge-Wilkinson’s team.

Trent Kone-Doherty and Jayden Danns each netted twice across the evening, meanwhile, as Liverpool saw off strong opposition in style.

“Yeah, we all are [proud],” Bridge-Wilkinson told Liverpoolfc.com post-match. “The whole Academy and all the staff, we’re all proud of the performance the lads have put in.

“We knew that Arsenal would come here and be tough opposition. Having not watched the game back, I don’t know if the scoreline flatters us.

“We’re really grateful to obviously get the scoreline and win the game like that. But they are a good side and they have got some good players, and I think the performance the lads have put in today to a man – Michael [Laffey] coming on, Figgy [Keyrol Figueroa] as well – that just epitomises what we do every day in training.”

The hosts’ seven goals were shared by their talented front three of Danns, Kone-Doherty and Koumas, who earned praise for their combination play from the boss.

Asked about the trio being ‘unplayable’ in the contest, Bridge-Wilkinson said: “Yeah, they definitely were tonight.

“It’s a really interesting blend, they are each different, they each threaten the opposition back line in a different way.

“When we can get them – like tonight – playing together, combining together and starting to work with each other, obviously they are really threatening.”

A huge moment in the tie came with the score still 1-1 and the first half just beyond its midway point.

Arsenal’s Chido Obi-Martin was denied by a Kornel Misciur save from close range and Josh Davidson reacted quickest to reach the loose ball and head it clear via the crossbar.

“I kind of saw it but I haven’t seen it back so I probably wouldn’t be able to do it justice,” said Bridge-Wilkinson of the incident.

“But that kind of epitomises Davo – he’s blood and guts, he gives everything for the team and he’s obviously a really good footballer as well. He’s captained the team really well tonight.”

Liverpool will have another home tie in the fifth round, with either Swansea City or Fulham – who meet next week – their upcoming opponents.

“Yeah, looking forward to seeing who it is,” finished Bridge-Wilkinson. “And then we’ll prepare as we do for each game and hopefully try to get through to the next round.”