Liverpool U18s finished their league campaign in second place on goal difference after a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough on Saturday afternoon.
The young Reds created a number of opportunities throughout the tie at the Academy but looked to be heading for their first goalless stalemate of the season in their final competitive game.
But substitute Fidel O’Rourke provided the breakthrough in the 87th minute by tucking home from close range, leaving Liverpool level on points with Derby County but behind on goal difference.
Barry Lewtas’ side had kicked off in Kirkby knowing they could still technically become U18 Premier League North champions, though victory by a 10-goal margin was required to leapfrog Derby at the summit.