Liverpool vs Adelaide United player ratings: Danny Ings? Joe Gomez? James Milner? Who was the star man?

Liverpool won the friendly in Australia 2-0

Danny Ings scores for Liverpool (GETTY IMAGES)

Liverpool made it three wins from three pre-season games after a hard-fought 2-0 victory against A-League side Adelaide United at the Adelaide Oval on Monday morning.

New signing James Milner and Danny Ings were the men on target after the midfielder slotted home Jordon Ibe's cross with a little over 20 minutes remaining, while the striker finished superbly in added time.

In truth the strike had a hint of offside about it, but the linesman's flag did not go up and the 29-year-old was allowed to celebrate his second goal Down Under.

However, the game had initially appeared to be destined to be a frustrating one for the Reds.

Although the visitors were by far the quickest side to settle into the encounter as the Australian outfit simply could not cope with the high intensity game that Brendan Rodgers had insisted from his side, opportunities in front of goal were not forthcoming.

The Merseysiders pressed from the front and hurried their opponents at every opportunity, but action the final third was elusive.

The huge crowd that belted out a roaring rendition of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' prior to kick off did not witness the swashbuckling display that they had hoped for.

Yet Liverpool stuck to their task and, while their defensive shape remained solid, bar a couple of customary nervous moments from Simon Mignolet, gaps in Adelaide's defence began to appear.

James Milner celebrates with Jordon Ibe, who set up the goal (GETTY IMAGES)

Milner made the most of his chance before substitute Ings produced a fine finish to score his first goal for the club in the dying minutes of the encounter.

The performance was far from polished but Rodgers will surely be satisfied with the result.

Who impressed Rodgers? Scroll down for our full ratings.

Simon Mignolet: 5

Lapses in the Belgian's concentration remain. The goalkeeper was almost caught cold direct from a corner and rushed off his line too hastily on another occasion, but was fortunate to head clear.

Nathaniel Clyne: 6

Promising, if not the most eye-catching display. The full back was not as impressive as Gomez on the opposite flank, but remained eager to get forward and stayed solid when on the back foot. A cute pass over the top for Henderson almost resulted in the opening goal.

Martin Skrtel: 6

Largely untested. The Slovakian defender ensured that Adelaide's attack could not get a foothold in the game with a couple of thumping tackles.

Dejan Lovren: 5

Yet to dispel doubts in regards to his composure when under pressure. Coped with the minimal threat that he faced well, but failed to hit the target with a free header from six yards out at the other end of the pitch.

Joe Gomez: 8

Proof that his previous performances were far from a flash in the pan. Confident and composed, the teenager glided across the turf before being withdrawn on half time. An early contender for the best signing of the summer given his paltry price tag.

Joe Allen: 5

Could be the fall guy once the side is at full strength. Fielded in a holding role, the Welshman saw plenty of the ball but was unable to provide a cutting edge. He has the look of an odd man out alongside the dynamic midfield duo in front of him.

Jordan Henderson: 7

The midfielder has seized the captaincy with both hands. His fledgling partnership with Milner has been one of the most encouraging aspects of pre-season. The new skipper's combative nature was combined with a crisp passing display.

James Milner: 8

The 29-year-old always looked to put his side on the front foot and offered constant encouragement to those around him. Not afraid to put in the hard yards and tucked home his goal with minimal fuss.

Jordon Ibe: 7

Making his case for regular game time well. The youngster was always keen to show for the ball and delivered the cross for Milner's goal. Unlike others, he has the technique and footballing brain to not be wasteful once he reaches the byline.

Adam Lallana: 6

The England international looks sharp. His trickery proved too much for the opposition at ties, but his passing in the final third let him down at times. Yet to form a solid understanding with Origi.

Divock Origi: 6

Seems unlikely to be the clinical presence Liverpool need in front of goal. Missed a clear cut chance early on after fine work from Gomez on the flank. Although skilful on the ball, the Belgian's decision making is often found lacking.

Danny Ings: 6

The striker was brought on in the second half and made sure he made his mark with a late goal. He certainly knows where the goal is.