Liverpool U23s endured a difficult afternoon as they were beaten 7-2 by Manchester City in Premier League 2 on Saturday.
Barry Lewtas’ side, who had moved to the top of the table last weekend, were three goals behind at the interval in Kirkby.
And though the young Reds briefly threatened comebacks with goals from Tyler Morton and Tom Clayton in the second half, the visitors went on to ensure all three points.
Liverpool had created the first chance of the game when great work from Owen Beck down the left saw him cross for Layton Stewart – stepping up for his first U23s start this season – whose effort was parried by the goalkeeper, who also turned away a follow-up from Luis Longstaff.