Out of league play for Galaxy and Liverpool

Liverpool have a match in the League Cup tonight against Carlisle. Since Carlisle is a mid-table League Two club, we would anticipate that Liverpool will rest most of the starters. Of course, that could wind up making the game more competitive!

I would guess Rodgers will use the opportunity to give some players a test as they comeback from injury. For instance, Sturridge is back but not fully fit. As is Lallana who is working his way back to fitness. Don't think that Benteke will be risked tonight however. Benteke is out for at least two matches. Will be interesting to see if Firmino gets a start as he hasn't had so many minutes considering how highly recruited he was. Perhaps feasting on a weaker club might build his confidence. Ings did so well against Norwich so expect he will get more time as he will be needed while Benteke is out. Would anticipate some of the younger guys like Rossiter and Brannagan to get either starting roles or substantial substitute minutes. The Echo writers take their guesses.

My guesses:
Up top - Sturridge, Ings, Firmino
Midfield - Rossiter, Milner, Lallana, Can
Defense - Lovren, Gomez, Clyne
Goalie - Bogdan

Off the bench: Origi to rest Sturridge in the 2nd half, Brannagan to rest a midfielder, and Ibe.

UPDATE: LFC wins during PKs. Lovren and Firmino injured. Lots of shots, shots on goal, but just 1 goal by Ings. The fans are getting restless. But I'm guessing the owners at FSG will stick with Rodgers until they get see how a team with a fit in form and healthy Sturridge and Benteke perform.

As for the Galaxy, they head on the road for the Concacaf Champions League (CCL) match without any of their designated players. They won their first two CCL with mostly the B-team on the field. So expect the same.

UPDATE: Galaxy got the equalizer at the 82 minute to get the draw and advance to the next round of CCL.