Liverpool have staked their place in the FA Cup quarter-finals after a comprehensive 3-0 victory against Southampton at Anfield

First Half

It was a bright start from Southampton who've impressed many in the Championship with their bold style of play and they certainly weren't afraid to showcase their skills at Anfield.

In what was an extremely inexperienced Liverpool side - albeit with the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Kostas Tsimikas playing, they struggled to press the quick-paced passing of the Saints players who were able to beat the press of the Reds' players in the first 15 minutes of action.

Southampton began ramping up the creativity and almost had a goal through Kamaldeen Sulemana who nutmugged Jarell Quansah and found himself one-on-one with Caoimhin Kelleher but his shot was easily saved by the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper.

Despite the away side enjoying much of the joy of the first half, it was Liverpool who grabbed the lead thanks to a debut goal from 18-year-old Lewis Koumas.

Receiving a quick pass from Bobby Clark, Koumas took a touch away from his defender as his shot from outside the box deflected off of Southampton defender Jan Bednarek to steer the ball past Joe Lumley to give Liverpool a 1-0 lead shortly before half-time

Second Half

So far this season, Liverpool have proved to be a second half team as they've been able to break down teams and weaken them with their high energy as well as the amount of quality substitutions they're able to make thanks to their deep squad.

It was a similar theme against Southampton but it took a little bit longer for the Reds to double their lead as their second of the night came in the 71st minute, courtesy of academy graduate Jayden Danns.

In just his second game for Liverpool, the 18-year-old ran onto a pinpoint pass from Harvey Elliott to chip the ball over Lumley for his first ever goal for Liverpool.

It didn't take long for the Scouser to net his second goal in red as just 15 minutes later, he tapped into an empty net after Lumley parried a shot from Conor Bradley right into Danns' path with the Englishman making it 3-0 to Liverpool.

LFC Globe Verdict

It was an inspired performance from a severely weak Liverpool team coming up against one of the best teams in the Championship.

The young players have a lot to be proud as their grit and determination in the game drove Liverpool to an important win to continue their journey in the FA Cup.

Man Of The Match And What's Next?

There were several impressive performances but I believe Jayden Danns deserves the man of the match award thanks to the influence he had on the game in just 30 minutes of action.

The teenager has been an impressive finisher in front of goal in the academy and he showcased just how dynamic he is in the box as he looks to be an immensely talented player.

Liverpool's win means they travel to Old Trafford to take on bitter rivals Manchester United in the quarter-finals of the competition next month in what will surely be a tasty clash.