SPANISH defender Daniel Ayala was sent off as Liverpool Reserves went down to a controversial 2-1 defeat to Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium last night.

Krizstian Nemeth gave Liverpool a deserved lead early in the first half when he exchanged passes with Gerardo Bruna before finishing expertly with his left foot.

Liverpool had gone close several times before that, with Nemeth dragging a shot wide and then seeing a header well saved by Al Habsy.Š The Bolton keeper also denied Mikel San Jose and Bruna.

Damien Plessis then headed wide from corner and Nemeth had another effort just before half-time.

The second half had been fairly uneventful, but exploded into life when Bolton full-back Basham went over the ball on Mendy, and Ayala was red carded for taking retribution with an over the top lunge of his own.Š Within minutes Bolton had made their numerical advantage count and had drew level through Smolarek, although the goal had more than a hint of offside about it.

Liverpool fell behind shortly after when Obadeyi skinned Mendy and crossed for Smolarek to grab his second. Nemeth and then Jordy Brouwer were both denied what looked clear penalties.

Liverpol threw everything at Bolton but couldn’t find an equaliser.ŠŠ

LIVERPOOL RESERVES:ŠHansen, Mendy (Kacaniklic 87), Scott, San Jose, Huth, Plessis, Crowther (Simon 83), Ayala, Nemeth, Bruna, Weijl (Brouwer 77).