Liverpool U21s edged out at Doncaster in EFL Trophy

Liverpool under-21s suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat at League One side Doncaster Rovers in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday evening, denting their hopes of progressing in the competition.

The only goal came in time added on at the end of the first half. After Harvey Davies made a fine save to deny Doncaster skipper Owen Bailey, the rebound fell for Tommi O'Reilly to convert.

Close calls for the Reds

Liverpool had earlier come close to opening the scoring with an outrageous attempt from Will Wright, whose chip from 35 yards struck the underside of the crossbar.

Doncaster goalkeeper Josh Clarke made a fine double save to deny both Wright and Joe Bradshaw shortly after half-time, with the former narrowly wide with another effort later on.

Group B standings

Despite dominating the second half, Rob Page's side have now slipped to third in the Group B table and need a positive result at leaders Huddersfield Town next month to stay in the competition.

Here are the ECHO's player ratings from the match at the Club Doncaster Sports Village.

Player ratings

Harvey Davies 7 - Made a smart save from a shot from range in the first half and was unlucky with the first goal, but some of his distribution was dangerously wayward. Another good stop after the break.

Oliver O'Connor 7 - Hugely energetic down the right flank in both directions but started to struggle with Doncaster regularly attacking his flank. Switched to a variety of roles in the final quarter in impressive fashion.

Wellity Lucky 7 - More than held his own against the experienced Doncaster forward Hanlan and looked to play out of the back whenever possible.

Luke Chambers 7 - Confident and composed playing in the heart of the defence and used the ball well. A good display.

Alvin Ayman 6 - Making his first appearance in this competition, wasn't overawed by the physicality of the men's game.

Joe Upton 6 - Busy evening anchoring midfield and had one shot charged down in the second half. Subbed.

Josh Sonni-Lambie 6 - Operating on the right flank, showed good physicality up against more experienced opponents but could have offered more help defensively. Subbed.

Michael Laffey 6 - Sought to provide support for lone striker Wright down the centre and was more effective in the second half. Subbed.

James McConnell 7 - Relatively quiet first half but became much more involved as Liverpool pressed for an equaliser. Booked and subbed.

Joe Bradshaw 6 - Not given much chance to stretch his legs down the left before the interval but later had a shot saved and became more of a threat.

Will Wright 8 - Involved in a running battle with the experienced Byrne and struck the underside of the crossbar with an outrageous attempt from range before the break. Denied by Doncaster goalkeeper Clarke in the second half and close with another effort.