Pongolle back for reserves

In his first game since he injured his knee on 25th January the French striker played the final 40 minutes of the game at the Racecourse Ground.

Everton winger Bjarni Vidarsson scored twice, and Mark Hughes made it 3-0 to the Blues.

But Pongolle's arrival on the field turned around the game. Playing on the right wing he caused problems for the Everton defence and scored within five minutes.

Danny Guthrie scored a second on 85 minutes but Liverpool were unable to get a late equaliser.

However, Rafael Benitez was on hand to see his French striker back in action and will be delighted with his performance.

Team: Willis, Barragan, Peltier (Josemi 60), O'Donnell, Whitbread, Hobbs, Wilkie (Sinama-Pongolle 50), Guthrie, Godwin Antwi, Mannix, Hammill (Frayne 82).
Subs unused: Roberts (GK), Woods.