For Toure and Mignolet it was a meek opening examination. The Belgian goalkeeper, set to be confirmed as the first choice for the start of the season, was called into meaningful action just once, pushing aside a Scott Laird shot from distance on 35 minutes.
Liverpool, still without Steven Gerrard and Sturridge who've been recovering from injury, could stroll through proceedings at Deepdale in a fixture organised to commemorate what would have been the 100th Birthday of Bill Shankly – who served both clubs with such distinction as player and manager.
The other notable absentee, of course, was Suarez currently on extended leave following the Confederations Cup.
As the club desperately try to cling onto him, at least they can console themselves another South American is ready to fill any emotional void on The Kop.
Coutinho was a catalyst for an encouraging finale to last season and will also be the source of optimism heading into this campaign.
It was the Brazilian who earned and converted the 16th minute penalty to open the scoring after he was dragged to the turf by former Liverpool midfielder John Welsh.
If the 21-year-old's presence sustains hope, pre-season also allows less distinguished others to imitate shop window mannequins. Rodgers doesn't just want to add more recruits, he wants to shift plenty too.
Jay Spearing and Oussama Assaidi's inclusion will have been for the benefit of watching scouts as much as their fitness.
Liverpool doubled their lead when 17-year-old Ibe drove past Declan Rudd from the edge of the penalty box before Sterling – one of ten half time Liverpool substitutes - was sent clear by Aspas on 64 minutes.
The Spanish striker took centre stage with an excellent goal of his own 15 minutes from time.
No comments:
Post a Comment