Layton Stewart’s hat-trick inspired Liverpool U18s to a comprehensive 5-0 win over Stoke City at the Academy on Saturday.
The Scouse striker’s treble was supplemented by two almost-identical Dominic Corness goals direct from corners as the young Reds began their U18 Premier League North season in style.
Stewart delicately clipped Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s side into a 25th-minute lead, and then won and converted a penalty towards the end of the first half.
Corness’ first wind-assisted set-piece made it three around the hour mark, before Stewart produced a moment of class to bend a long-range shot into the top corner to crown an impressive display.