Oldham 3 Liverpool 2: Brendan Rodgers criticises Reds youngsters

Brendan Rodgers criticised Liverpool’s youngsters for a disappointing performance after Oldham Atheltic secured a famous FA Cup victory over the Reds at Boundary Park.

Matt Smith put the League One side ahead in the third minute, with the striker out-foxing Sebastián Coates before firing past Brad Jones.

The Reds boss handed Luis Suárez the captaincy in the absence of Steven Gerrard, who was on the bench, and the Uruguayan’s smart finish restored parity in the 17th minute.

Rodgers also opted to rest Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina, and Jones’ blunder on the stroke of half-time allowed Smith to score his second from close range.

Oldham extended their lead when Reece Wabara’s looping header left Jones stranded two minutes after the restart, and Joe Allen could only score a late consolation as the woodwork denied Liverpool substitute Gerrard a dramatic leveller.

“We were coming here in good form and obviously we are bitterly disappointed,” Rodgers told BBC Sport.

“I was bitterly disappointed with the young players as today they had a chance to show they can play for Liverpool and compete for a club that has to challenge for trophies.

“We lost our concentration, and only had spells in the last 35 minutes when we were at the right level. Congratulations to Oldham, though.”

Oldham manager Paul Dickov, whose side are struggling in League One, admitted the cup upset ranked among the greatest moments of his career in football.

“We started the game ever so well, we got our noses in front and then Liverpool, who have a team full of top class players, got back into it. To score before half-time was vital for us.

“We have lost seven out of eight but they have been by the odd goal, like today,” said Dickov.

“We have not been getting any luck, but the performances have been OK, and we got the bit of luck we needed today.

“I was a lucky boy to have the playing career I had, but this is the top moment.”