Leading goalscorer Michael Ndiweni gave United a 26th-minute lead at Kirkby, latching on to Kyle Crossley’s lofted pass over the Reds’ backline before evading the goalkeeper and slotting home.

It was an impressive finish from Ndiweni, who did well to beat the offside trap and keep his composure to hand the visitors an advantage they held until half time, but after the break Liverpool began to shift through the gears.

Oakley Cannonier equalised with just over 20 minutes remaining before Luke Chambers netted from the penalty spot shortly after, leaving Newcastle with a sizeable task ahead of them.

Cannonier’s second of the game on 84 minutes was enough to put the result beyond doubt, with United’s attentions now turning to their final game before Christmas away at Nottingham Forest on Saturday, 18th December (11am kick-off).

Newcastle United Under-18s: Max Thompson, Josh Stewart, Beau Beresford, Ciaran Thompson, Harry Barclay, Ellis Stanton (Jamie Donaldson 77), James Huntley, Jay Turner-Cooke, Kyle Crossley, Jamie Miley, Michael Ndiweni.

Subs not used: Steven Bessent, Nathan Robertson, Lewis Miley, Shaun Mavididi.