Stewart Downing scored the only goal of the game against Belarus side Gomel. This ensured that Brendan Rodger’s first match in charge of Liverpool ended in victory and also ending his goal scoring drought in front of goal.
Downing stars as Liverpool clears first round of qualificationGomel dominated most of the game and the Merseysiders were lucky to leave with the win after the hosts missed a string of chances. The second half continued in a similar way, with Gomel creating chances but failing to convert, and they were made to pay by Stewart Downing, whose 25-yard effort was enough to give the Reds the edge. The home side looked shell-shocked after that very unexpected development, but could have equalised in the 87th minute as Alumona’s shot from outside the penalty area brushed the side-netting.
However, Liverpool held on, and recorded a victory to ensure Rodgers’ era got off to the perfect start. The second leg of the tie will be played at Anfield next week.