WANDERERS under-18s emphatically bounced back from their FA Youth Cup disappointment by beating Liverpool's academy side 6-4 on Saturday.

Coach David Lee had called for a response to the 5-0 midweek humbling at Crewe and his players delivered to secure a first win in 12 FA U18 Premier League North Group matches – a winless run that stretched back to mid September.

Lee made several changes to the side that lost at Gresty Road and the Whites started brightly at Lostock and were rewarded when Nathaniel Phillips headed home an opener.

But an own goal and a strike from Reds youngster Sergi Canos turned the game on its head.

Wanderers did not let their heads drop, however, and hit back in style.

Phillips levelled the scoreline with his second before Carl Kennedy and Will Abbotts put the young Whites in control to lead 4-2 at the break.

Neil Critchley's Liverpool reduced the deficit from the penalty spot after the break when substitute Harry Wilson dusted himself down after being fouled in the box to score.

Pedro Chirivella then hit the bar for the visitors but Wanderers again responded in fine fashion.

Channing Campbell-Young restored their two-goal advantage before Enock Likoy-Elumba made it six.

Liverpool netted a late consolation when Spanish youngster Madger Gomes scored on his league debut following a goalmouth scramble but Wanderers were deserved winners on the day as they avenged a 3-0 defeat on Merseyside in the autumn.

And Lee was delighted with the reaction following that FA Youth Cup exit last Wednesday.

He said: "It was a fantastic reaction after the disappointment in midweek.

"We started the game with a good tempo and scored early.

"The character showed and we played some excellent football.

"It could have been more but for some last-ditch Liverpool defending.

"Overall, it was a very good performance with a change in some players from Wednesday.

"All the players responded very well which was really pleasing."

Following a third league win of the season, Lee takes his side to Merseyside on Saturday to face Everton, kick off 11am.