Liverpool had to fight back from going 2-0 down in the first half to beat Blackpool 7-2 in a friendly at Anfield on Saturday afternoon.
Jurgen Klopp’s side started sluggishly before eventually taking control of a fixture which might’ve sent shivers down the spines of some Reds fans, memories of Roy Hodgson’s reign and defeat at the hands of Blackpool during their time in the top flight came flooding back.
This clash saw a far more pleasant reunion as Anfield welcomed back former Under-23’s boss Neil Critchley, now in charge of the League One club.
Despite numerous international absentees, Klopp named a strong eleven, however, it was Blackpool midfielder CJ Hamilton opened the scoring before Jerry Yates doubled the lead from the penalty spot to shock the Premier League champions.
On his return to the starting lineup, Joel Matip’s header got a goal back before half time.
After squandering plenty of chances and finding an inspired Blackpool stopper the second half saw a much better performance from the Reds.
Sadio Mane equalised before Roberto Firmino put Liverpool ahead. Harvey Elliott, Takumi Minamino, Divock Origi, and Sepp van den Berg put the gloss on the performance.
Here’s how we rated The Reds after the game.
Alisson Becker - 5
Little to do in truth, no chance with the opening goal but did give away the penalty with a trip on the edge of the box
Ki-Jana Hoever - 6
Given his opportunity in the absence of Trent and Neco, had his moments but struggled to deliver the same quality as the options ahead of him
Joel Matip - 7
Got the goal to get Liverpool back into the match. Impressive defensively throughout
Billy Koumetio - 6
Handed his first start by Jurgen Klopp after impressing in pre-season. The French youngster looked a little nervy but showed his power for a teenager at times
James Milner - 6
Back at left-back so soon after Tsimikas’ arrival. Workrate as solid as ever and assisted Matip’s goal
Fabinho - 6
Off the pace a little and lost out on a challenge much to Klopp’s anger. Replaced at half-time
Naby Keita - 8
Another impressive showing from the Guinean midfielder who is pushing to earn a place in the Premier League starting eleven
Takumi Minamino - 8
Potentially finding his feet as a Red. Minamino was at his most assured and influential since his arrival in January. Very promising signs
Sadio Mane - 7
Could have had a hat-trick but did score Liverpool’s leveler. Always a danger but will want to polish his finishing before next week
Roberto Firmino - 8
Work rate epitomised by his goal, after starting off the play on the edge of his own box. Brilliant touches and looking very sharp
Mohamed Salah - 6
Surprisingly quiet in a seven-goal rout. Hopefully saving his best form for next week
Nat Phillips (Sub) - 6
Solid enough at the back but still likely to move on this summer
Sepp van den Berg (Sub) -6
Grabbed the last goal after being barely needed on defensive duty
Curtis Jones (Sub) - 7
A very lively performance from the local lad. Assisted Origi’s goal and looked bright throughout
Adrian (Sub) - 6
Little used but made a couple of decent saves
Divock Origi (Sub) - 7
Super-sub proving his worth once more. Caused trouble throughout and grabbed a goal
Harvey Elliott (Sub) - 7
Brilliant showing from the youngster, goal and assist to boot