Will Wright of Liverpool U21 celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with team-mates during the Jersey Mike's Trophy match at Rochdale on September 22 2026
Will Wright of Liverpool U21 celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with team-mates during the Jersey Mike's Trophy match at Rochdale on September 22 2026(Image: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
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Liverpool under-21s secured a remarkable EFL Trophy win on penalties at Rochdale after a dramatic comeback earned a 3-3 draw in which they played more than three-quarters with 10 men.
Liverpool substitutes Ben Trueman and Josh Sonni-Lambie scored in the fourth and sixth minute of an elongated additional period that was required after the game had been halted during the second half due to fireworks being shot into the stadium from outside.
Devante Rodney had earlier given Rochdale the lead shortly after Mor Talla Ndiaye had been sent off midway through the first half, only for Will Wright to score a superb solo equaliser.
Despite an excellent defensive effort from Rob Page's side, 41-year-old Ian Henderson scored twice in the final quarter to seemingly send the visitors tumbling to a harsh defeat before the late drama.
And after the first 12 penalties were converted in the shoot-out, Liverpool goalkeeper Harvey Davies saved from Rochdale counterpart Sam Waller to earn the Reds only their fourth victory of any sort in the competition in 23 games.
The ECHO was in attendance at the Crown Oil Arena and here we run the rule over the performances of the Reds players.
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Harvey Davies 7
A few solid claims first half but left rooted to the spot for the opening goal. Good stop shortly after interval from header and busier as Rochdale pressed, but could have done better with second before saving the crucial spot kick from Waller in the shoot-out.
Prince Cisse 7
Started at right-back before switching to the centre of defence following the red card where he grew stronger as game progressed.
Mor Talla Ndiaye 5
Began confidently with some strong headers but rash challenge on Dieseruvwe resulted in an early red.
Wellity Lucky 7
Compelled to lead the defence following the dismissal of his centre-back partner and demonstrated good composure.
Luke Chambers 6
Sought to build partnership with Bradshaw going forward down the left until emphasis changed with Liverpool down to 10. Shot blocked in final quarter.
James McConnell 7
Got stuck into the midfield scrap and demonstrated his experience with neat touches and strong pressing. Subbed.
Michael Laffey 6
Found life a little difficult early on in the engine room dealing with physicality and intensity of the senior game but grew into it. Subbed.
Oliver O'Connor 7
Versatility useful as he played in both positions down the right and impressed with pace and ability on the ball. Almost outwitted entire Rochdale defence late on and laid on second before hand in third.
Jayden Danns 7
Playing ostensibly in the number 10 role, job soon became more defensive but caught eye with strong runs from deep and one pass through for Wright. Subbed.
Joe Bradshaw 6
Had one shot saved early on before having to drop deeper to help out the rearguard action, but forced another save second half. Began to create openings in the second half.
Will Wright 9
Excellent opening period when his close control and willingness to run at defenders created chance for Bradshaw and shot of his own. Scored superb solo goal and almost had a few more.
Afolami Onanuga (for McConnell 63) 6
Aided energy to the defensive effort in midfield.
Josh Sonni-Lambie (for Laffey 82) 7
Brought on in the attack and prodded in the dramatic equaliser.
Ben Trueman (for Danns 82) 8
Rolled in the second to give hope of a recovery and then assisted the third.
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