Federico Chiesa’s first Liverpool goal seals FA Cup thrashing of Accrington
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They will always have the milk advert. Accrington Stanley came in search of a momentous FA Cup upset at Anfield, a story to usurp their other famous connection with Liverpool and Ian Rush, but there was no miracle to be found on a freezing afternoon on Merseyside.
Arne Slot’s much-changed but still recognisable Liverpool team had too much quality, nous and experience for League Two opponents who did themselves justice over 90 minutes but could not contain the Premier League leaders for ever. Diogo Jota, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jayden Danns and Federico Chiesa scored the goals that took Liverpool into round four.
The 2-0 half-time scoreline was a little harsh on the League Two side. Liverpool dominated possession comfortably, as they should, and in the debutant Rio Ngumoha they evidently have another academy product worthy of the hype. The left-winger, prised from Chelsea last summer, became the youngest player to start a game for Liverpool at 16 years and 135 days. Quick-footed, fast and always willing to take on his man, the young forward made an encouraging first impression. Accrington, however, were far from overawed in their elevated surroundings.
John Doolan’s team pressed man-to-man from the start and worked tirelessly to stifle Liverpool’s numerous creative options. The key issue was how long they could sustain it. Shaun Whalley, the captain, twice drew roars of encouragement from the 4,700 away fans when breaking down the left. A Liverpool defender intercepted his delivery into the box on both occasions.