'Positive changes' - Merseyside Police pleased with what happened to Liverpool supporters after Union SG match

Merseyside Police were delighted not to see Liverpool fans held back after the Europa League clash with Union Saint-Gilloise

Merseyside Police have praised the positive strides toward change following Liverpool's defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise in the Europa League.

The Reds went down to a 2-1 defeat at Lotto Park after manager Jurgen Klopp made nine changes. But it mattered little as they had already secured top spot in Group E.

The youthful Liverpool line-up were backed by 1,058 travelling supporters at the match, which was moved from Union's Stade Joseph Marien to the home of Anderlecht.

READ MORE: Union SG manager makes 'no respect' claim after beating Liverpool

READ MORE: Liverpool plan hints at two starters vs Man United as forward chance wasted

And after the full-time whistle, Merseyside Policer revealed that for the first time in more 10 years, Belgian police, who'd worked at the Brussels-based stadium, did not hold back away fans.

In a tweet on X, MerPol Liverpool FC, the club's matchday police officers, said: "Just been chatting with the Belgium football officers who have been working Anderlecht Stadium for decades.

"This is the first occasion that they can remember when the away fans have NOT been held back. We are seeing positive changes."

Belgian Pro League leaders Union picked up a famous win thanks to first-half goals from Mohamed Amoura and Cameron Puertas. However, the triumph wasn't enough to see Alexander Blessin's side creep into the Europa League knockout stages. after Toulouse beat LASK to claim second spot behind the Reds.

After topping the group, Liverpool avoided the Europa League knockout round play-offs, which features teams dropping from the Champions League, and will enter the draw at the round-of-16 stage.