Liverpool took an early lead last night when Craig Lindfield scored after only three minutes to put the Reds 3-1 up on aggregate. Liverpool continued to have chances and both Adam Hammill and Ryan Flynn saw good chances saved by the Southampton goalkeeper.
Southampton are a good side however and their top scorer David McGoldrick was able to grab an equaliser on the hour mark. This was the cue for the Saints to put Liverpool under incessant pressure. However, the Reds held firm with Godwin Antwi and Jack Hobbs both playing well.
Southampton scored in the final minute of stoppage time to take the game to extra time and the goal was a cruel blow to the Reds. The outstanding Hobbs cut out a Southampton cross but unfortunately he sent the ball past David Roberts in the Liverpool goal to make it 3-3 on aggregate.
Liverpool were stunned by the late goal and Southampton took advantage in extra time when McGoldrick scored his second of the night to put the Saints 3-1 up and 4-3 up on aggregate.
The Reds were not beaten however. Barely a minute later they won a corner and Robbie Threlfall rose highest in the box to head home and equalise the aggregate scores.
Away goals do not count in this competition so when the final whistle went the game went to penalties. Drawing on the spirit of Istanbul, the young Reds were able to emerge triumphant with goalkeeper David Roberts saving two penalties in the shoot out. Paul Barratt, Charlie Barnett, Michael Nardiello, Adam Hammill and Stephen Darby all scored from the spot for the Reds to send them through to the two legged final where they will meet either Newcastle or Man City.