Match reportLiverpool U21s and Braga play out goalless draw in PL International Cup
Liverpool U21s were held to a frustrating goalless draw against SC Braga in the Premier League International Cup on Wednesday evening.
The Reds were unable to find a way through their stubborn Portuguese opponents, who had a player sent off in the 10th minute.
Barry Lewtas’ side, however, maintained their unbeaten record in the competition after three fixtures, as they conclude their Group C schedule against Hertha BSC next month.
The fact the contest was even going ahead was down to the tireless work of the Academy grounds staff, following heavy snowfall in the area.
The complexion of what would happen on that cleared pitch would change when Braga went down to 10 players after Diogo Fonseca saw red for a scuffle that followed his fouling of Bobby Clark.
Despite their disadvantage, Braga were extremely well organised without possession and difficult for Liverpool to break down.
The best chance of the first half was, in fact, created by the visitors – Fabian Mrozek forced to save well from Roger Fernandes in a one-v-one situation.
The Reds created a great opportunity to open the scoring immediately after the break. But a free Max Woltman, who replaced the injured Melkamu Frauendorf in the first half, didn’t volley cleanly enough from James Norris’ delivery to test the Braga goalkeeper.
It was an open affair, with both teams showing they were keen to break the deadlock. Norris dragged a shot just wide, before Braga’s Andre Lacximicant led a counter-attack and struck the crossbar with a shot, which Mrozek may have got his fingertips to.
The hosts pushed for a late winner – and nearly earned it through Luke Chambers and Mateusz Musialowski attempts – but in the end had to settle for a point.
Liverpool U21s: Mrozek, Jonas, Koumetio, Olufunwa, Chambers, Corness, Stephenson, Frauendorf (Woltman, 37), Musialowski, Clark (Cannonier, 60), Norris (Pilling, 80).
Unused substitutes: Kelly, Miles.