LIVERPOOL’S goal might have been lucky, but their defence was defiant at the other end as 1874 Northwich lost for the first time this season.

In fact, a visiting team has not left for home from the Barton Stadium with maximum points against Ian Street’s men since in 11 months.

James Robinson diverted a long ball delivered into the hosts’ penalty area past goalkeeper Matt Conkie, though the contact appeared to be off his back.

No matter, for it earned for his side a fourth win in five Premier Division matches.

1874 attacked in search of an equaliser; Matthew Ward twice went close, while Paul Connor’s attempt was off target after substitute Mike Brandon had directed Lee Duckworth’s cross into his path.

A penalty appeal to referee Steven Mycock was unsuccessful too after custodian Ryan Jones had collided with Brandon.

Northwich, who included Sakeel Abdullah from the first minute as one of two changes from the side that squeezed past Maine Road in the FA Cup on Sunday, had dominated the opening period.

Striker David Short sent two efforts towards goal during the initial exchanges, either side of Jones turning Duckworth’s shot onto the crossbar.

Their guests posed threat, though Conkie was called upon to save smartly from Francis Barry and then Ryan Cox.

Jones matched that feat at the other end when Ward and Short attempted to beat him.

When he was beaten, by Sunday’s match-winner Matthew Beadle, a defender was positioned perfectly to smuggle the ball to safety.

1874 Conkie (GK), Mitchell, Farnworth, Aston (Crofts 76), Duckworth, Connor, Woolley, Ward, Abdullah, Short (Hurst 61), Beadle (Brandon 61) Subs not used Fossdyke (GK), Bowyer

Liverpool Jones (GK), Givan, Mahama, Sinnot, Valentine, Peers, Williams, Liam Loughlin, Robinson (Purcell 76), Barry, Cox Subs not used Picton, Daniel Loughlin, Banyihwab 

Referee Steven Mycock

Attendance 316

Additional reporting by Garry Clarke