Half-Time Report: Jordan Henderson fires Liverpool ahead

Liverpool have a 1-0 lead against Udinese at the break in tonight's crucial Europa League group match in Italy.

Jordan Henderson's strike midway through the half has put Brendan Rodgers's side on course for the knockout stages of the competition.

Mathias Ranegie had a great chance to open the scoring for the hosts on 15 minutes, but he could only put his header wide of the goal.

Reds goalkeeper Pepe Reina was called into action soon after when he tipped Guillermo Ariel Pereyra's effort over the crossbar.

Despite Udinese's dominance, Liverpool went ahead with 22 minutes on the clock as Henderson fired home from the edge of the area following a corner.

The visitors looked in control after that until Diego Fabbrini forced another save from Reina.

There was a late opportunity for Liverpool in the form of Luis Suarez's shot on the angle, but the Uruguayan saw his effort fly over.