Robbie Brady’s 40-Yard Magic: Preston North End Sink Liverpool in Pre-Season Friendly
When it comes to pre-season friendlies, you’d expect a lot of tweaking, testing, and experimentation from teams gearing up for the new campaign. But even in a behind-closed-doors affair, you can’t always expect a goal as stunning as Robbie Brady’s 40-yard lob to sink Liverpool.
The former Manchester United and Burnley winger was the hero for Preston North End as they beat the Reds 1-0 at the AXA Training Centre on Friday afternoon. Brady’s wonder goal, which you can watch below, has sent shockwaves throughout the football world.
The Irishman’s strike came after Jarell Quansah’s forward pass to Conor Bradley was intercepted by Brady, who took one touch before spotting Liverpool goalkeeper Varoslav Jaros off his line. With the ‘keeper out of position, Brady fired an effort over Jaros’ head, and the ball crashed onto the crossbar before going in.
The goal represented a major upset for Liverpool, who were playing their first unofficial encounter under new manager Arne Slot. The Reds fielded a strong lineup, with Mo Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai both featuring in the fixture. However, most of their key players were unavailable following the conclusion of Euro 2024 and the Copa America.
The defeat will be a wake-up call for Liverpool, who are still awaiting the return of most of their senior players from international duty. Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson, and Alexis Mac Allister are among those still absent from the AXA Training Centre.
For Preston North End, Brady’s goal will be a major confidence booster ahead of their EFL Championship campaign. The Championship side is looking to build on last season’s 11th-place finish and has made some shrewd signings in the transfer market.
Key Stats:
- Preston North End won 1-0 against Liverpool in their pre-season friendly
- Robbie Brady scored a stunning 40-yard goal, which you can watch below
- Liverpool fielded a strong lineup, with Mo Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai both featuring
- Most of Liverpool’s key players were unavailable following international duty
- Preston North End finished 11th in the EFL Championship last season
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