---
title: "Academy Review"
canonical: "https://readliverpoolfc.com/columns/academy-review/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Oli Marecar"
section: "Columns"
published: "2015-01-19T16:44:06Z"
modified: "2015-01-19T16:44:06Z"
---

# Academy Review

After experiencing the scorching heat in **Indonesia** competing in the **Frenz International Cup**, Liverpool **u18**s were back in more homely conditions against Bolton Wanderers.

The Reds fielded a strong team consisting of Spaniards Pedro **Chirivella** and Sergi **Canos** and there was also a start for Adam **Phillips**, who had only recently signed his first professional contract.

Bolton took an early lead through Nathaniel Phillips but Liverpool responded well by going 2-1 up after an own goal and a Sergi **Canos** strike. However, Liverpool looked vulnerable at the back and Bolton took full advantage by scoring three goals in quick succession to lead 4-2 at half-time.

The interval prompted a substitution as Neil **Critchley** brought on Welsh winger Harry **Wilson** for Canos. Wilson made an immediate impact by winning a penalty and picking himself up to score to make it 4-3. Liverpool were denied an equaliser by the woodwork, **Chirivella** seeing his shot come back off crossbar.

Once again, Bolton’s attacking players were clinical in front of goal and scored another quick fire brace to make it 6-3 to Bolton. Liverpool did get a consolation goal after a goalmouth scramble saw Madger **Gomes** score on his debut for the Reds, the action-packed match finishing 6-4 to Bolton Wanderers.

Manager Neil Critchley told **Liverpoolfc.com**, *“It was a very disappointing day for us and we gave away very poor goals. We had a strong team out but defensively we were all over the place. We need to do a lot better.”*

The u18s are back in action on Wednesday night in the **FA Youth Cup** 4th round against Derby County (**live on LFC TV**). A solid performance, especially in defence, is required if they are to progress to the next round.

The next league match for the u18s is on **January the 24th** (Saturday) against Manchester City and the u21s are back in action with a vital match against Manchester United (**live on LFC TV**) on **January 26th** (Monday).