91Èȱ¬

Liverpool Ladies boss Matt Beard has told his players they cannot afford to dwell on their FA Women's Cup exit.

The reigning league champions begin their title defence against Sunderland on Wednesday, just three days after their 3-1 cup loss at Birmingham.

"We have got to show a united front, bounce back and start well on Wednesday," Beard told 91Èȱ¬ Sport.

"We have got to show a little bit of belief within ourselves and make sure that we respond well."

Liverpool, who have won the title in both of the last two seasons, host last year's WSL 2 champions at the Select Security Stadium.

"We've played Sunderland over the last two years quite a few times, in the Continental Cup and the FA Cup, so we know a little bit about them," Beard added.

"They haven't made too many signings, so they're the same sort of team. I expect it to be a tough game.

"They'll be organised and they've got players who can score goals.

"I'm confident within this group that we can bounce back and start our league campaign, hopefully, with three points."