HJK vs. Liverpool: Score and Reaction from 2015 Pre-Season Friendly

A dull affair in Finland saw Liverpool defeat HJK Helsinki by a 2-0 scoreline—with goals by substitute Divock Origi and midfield maestro Philippe Coutinho. 

Liverpool started the game with a strong side, featuring new signings James Milner, Danny Ings and full-back Nathaniel Clyne. Brazilian Coutinho also made his first appearance of pre-season in the famous shirt, with Brendan Rodgers opting for a 4-2-3-1 formation.

The club took to social media to confirm Rodgers' team selection:

New club captain Jordan Henderson started the Reds off on the right foot, the England man shooting from 25 yards, making goalkeeper Daniel Orlund work. 

But the Anfield giants nearly fell behind early in the match, with HJK twice going close from set pieces. 

Simon Mignolet's weak clearance from a corner was presented to Atomu Tanaka, whose effort was deflected over the crossbar. This was followed up by a free header for Ousman Jallow, who saw his attempt sail over the bar.

James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo highlighted Liverpool's luck:

Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

Coutinho was used in an advanced midfield role, but his side failed to create much as they trundled up the pitch.

The Reds consistently gave up possession without a fight, with Jordon Ibe being the brightest spark for the team as he raided down the right side.

Coutinho, Henderson and Ings all had chances to break the deadlock, with Milner forcing a save from Orlund with a long-range effort.

Coutinho was central to Rodgers' side's most impressive work, and the Brazilian clipped the top of the crossbar with a shot four minutes before the break.

The Liverpool Echo's Joe Rimmer was positive about the performance despite the lack of action and gave specific praise to new player Clyne:

Robertus Pudyanto/Getty Images

The second half began in the same vein as the first, with neither side moving through the gears with much success.

Ings was replaced on the hour mark by Belgian sensation Origi, and his introduction was to be key for the Reds.

The 20-year-old finally gave Liverpool fans something to cheer about, scoring five minutes after coming on.

Origi took one touch and fired from close range, underlining his predatory instincts, which could be vital for Rodgers this year.

Liverpool FC News shared the goal on social media:

And the Reds soon doubled their advantage, putting the game to bed, as Coutinho capped a busy performance with a goal of his own.

A short-corner move between Adam Lallana, Milner and the goalscorer saw the ball end up in the net, with Coutinho's effort taking a deflection on its way in.

Brazil Stats shared the player's powerful finish on Twitter: 

"

VINE - GOLAÇO do Coutinho! pic.twitter.com/iQ7J45zrp9 [@LiverpoolGifs]

— Seleção Brasileira (@BrazilStats) August 1, 2015"

It was a simple night's work for Liverpool, with the final whistle confirming a 2-0 victory. Rodgers was pleased with his side's application and their improvement through the second half.

Pearce quoted the boss after the game:

Of course, the Reds will need to show more at Stoke City for the start of their Premier League campaign, but this was a useful run-out for many of the squad.

Coutinho integrated back into the first team well, and Origi showed he could be the answer in the continued absence of Daniel Sturridge.

However, it is Milner's capture that might be the most vital for the Anfield club. His influence on the side is already there to see, and he appears to be the player who can fill the large void left by the departure of Steven Gerrard.