In what was our second pre-season friendly, after our 3-2 win against Bristol City last week, Laura Coombs’ fine second-half strike proved the difference at the Academy Stadium in our latest assignment.
The highly competitive fixture with the Merseyside team was an immensely valuable test before we begin our Barclays Women’s Super League campaign at West Ham on Sunday 1 October.
And the boss was pleased with what he saw from his side against the Reds.
“I think there was a lot for us to build on from today’s performance which is good,” he explained.
“It was important we got the minutes into the players. Players got minutes under their belts and we got the England girls and Mary back as well, Filippa.
“I felt it’s always tough against Liverpool particularly when you have the ball because they come out and engage and press and sometimes we got the balance right by playing through, around and sometimes over.
“And then we made quite a few changes at half-time. That period between 45 and 60-70 minutes was very good.
“When we scored the goal we probably surrendered a bit too much space and needed to be a bit smarter in our build-up play.
“Sometimes when a team’s chasing the game they leave themselves vulnerable in behind so we need to be aware of that and spot where the spaces are.
“Really pleased, I thought there were some good passages of play. Pleasing to get the win as well.”
The fixture with Matt Beard’s side represented Coombs’ first appearance for City since representing England at the Women’s World Cup.
Last season, the versatile midfielder scored five goals and registered six assist in all competitions for the Club which earned her a place in the Lionesses squad for the prestigious tournament.
And Taylor is relishing the opportunity to utilise her capabilities in the final third across the upcoming campaign following her match winner against Liverpool.
He added: “We know Laura’s got such a good shot. Trying to get her to hit those more often is going to be important for her, she’s more than capable.
“Really good to have her back and thought she brought good energy to the team. We have good options at the moment, with a couple of little injuries and niggles.”
