Benteke in Reds good books with a cracker
LIVERPOOL manager Brendan Rodgers hailed new signing Christian Benteke after his wonder goal set the Premier League giants on their way to victory at thirdtier Swindon Town in their final pre-season friendly on Sunday.
The Belgian international – a £32.5-million (R645-million) arrival from top-flight rivals Aston Villa last month – scored a spectacular 20-metre volley just after half-time as Liverpool triumphed 2-1 at the County Ground.
“Christian’s goal was incredible, whether it was a preseason friendly or in a league or cup game. It was wonderful technique from the big guy,” beamed Rodgers.
Swindon – who missed out on promotion to the Championship last season after a 4-0 defeat to Preston North End in the League One playoff final – matched a strong Liverpool side in an evenly contested first half, before Liverpool went in front three minutes after the break. After neat build-up play, the ball popped up to Benteke, who controlled on his chest before rifling an unstoppable volley past Swindon ’keeper Lawrence Vigouroux.
Swindon responded and stunned Liverpool just after the hour mark.
Former Tottenham striker John Obika picked up a pass on the right-hand side of the penalty area before cutting inside and finishing past visiting ’keeper Adam Bogdan.
The League One side looked as if they would hold on for a draw but Liverpool, who’d just returned from a pre-season tour of the Far East and Australia, struck three minutes from time through 18-year-old English winger Sheyi Ojo after he was played in by Kolo Toure.
Rodgers also handed a debut to Brazilian international forward Firmino, who was snapped up from German side Hoffenheim earlier this summer, and was pleased with his 67-minute contribution.
“You see his quality. He is really bright on the ball, has got wonderful technique and has got the ability to want to get forward and score a goal,” said the Liverpool boss.
“The players have been brilliant. They have travelled all around the world and never complained once, just got on with their work.” Rodgers and Liverpool will be pleased to end pre-season on a high ahead of their Premier League opener at Stoke City next Sunday. — AFP