Jurgen Klopp sent the kids back out against Exeter in this third round replay and they eased their way into the fourth round of the FA Cup - to face West Ham at Anfield.
An early goal from Joe Allen, playing in a more advanced role, settled nerves - and substitute Sheyi Ojo scored his debut goal before Joao Teixeira got a well deserved goal to help the scoreline reflect the pattern of play.
Jon Flanagan made a return to the Liverpool side from the bench when he was sent on early in the second half to thunderous applause.
Jose Enrique and Tiago Ilori again started in central defence - Enrique even being given the captaincy. Mignolet was the only player to keep his place in the side after the defeat against United.
The impressive Brad Smith was at left back.
Brannagan and Kevin Stewart were selected to do much of the graft in midfield - allowing Joe Allen to push forward more than normal.
And in the 10th minute it paid dividends. A one two between Brad Smith and Benteke saw the Australian deliver the ball across to Allen who poked it home.
Liverpool continued to dominate the first half - Exeter failed to register a single shot at the Liverpool goal - but the reds couldn't increase their advantage. Benteke saw one header go narrowly over - one from a handful of chances created by Teixeira who was looking to find the Belgian striker.
Second half began and Exeter immediately got a shot away - but it would not signal a different second half.
The reds controlled it.
Flanagan was sent on shortly into the half and the crowd gave the Liverpudlian a loud welcome on his return.
Ibe looked determined to get a first Anfield goal - one powerful shot rebounding off the crossbar but just failing to get the whole of the ball over the line, as goalline technology revealed.
Sheyi Ojo was sent on and with 15 minutes left he got the all important second goal. It was Liverpool's first 2-0 lead at Anfield since April last year - almost 300 days - highlighting the difficulties we have had.
Moments later and more good work from Benteke, holding up the ball well, before setting up Teixeira who stayed onside before blasting in his shot - cool, calm collected.
3-0.
The reds now face West Ham in the next round but more importantly, have any of these youngsters done enough to push their way up the Anfield hierarchy?
Maybe.
