Magic In Macedonia

Ngog converts his first effort...

David Ngog led Liverpool to a secure 2-0 victory last night in Macedonia as Roy's first competitive game gets him off to a great start. The new manager perhaps took a big risk in leaving the likes of Reina, Carragher, Gerrard, Kuyt and many others at home to sit this one out, but it's safe to say the risk paid off and an unfamiliar Liverpool side were more than comfortable against the team from Skopje.

Hodgson fielded a very mixed XI, Cavalieri started in goal with Agger, Skrtel, Kyrgiakos and Kelly making up the back four. Aquilani, Lucas, Spearing and new signing Jovanovic made up the midfield with Ngog and Amoo up front. Darby, Dalla Valle and Eccleston also made sub appearances.

It took just under 20minutes for Liverpool to make their mark on the game. An ever aware Ngog was on the chase after a defensive and goalkeeping misjudgement meant he was able to easily send the ball home and make it 1-0.

Liverpool could now lay off the pace a bit after the settling first goal and were strong in the remainder of the first half. With no real threat from Rabotnicki it was clear that the team Hodgson chose would be more than capable of seeing this game out.

Near the hour mark Liverpool capitalized on their stability with a second from the young Frenchman. Ngog was set up by a lovely cross from academy starlet Martin Kelly and his first touch finish was superb.

Ngog appears to be getting stronger each time i see him. He's definitely still learning the game and is constantly adding aspects to his own performances. Very proud of the lad.

With efforts from Aquilani, Kyrgiakos and Kelly it could have been an even better scoreline for the Reds but the comfortable 2-0 is a perfect result to take into the second leg on the 5th August at Anfield.