It was the worst possible start to the Women's Super League season for defending champions, as they were beaten by newly-promotedLiverpool.
In the second half, a record crowd at Prenton Park was sent into a frenzy by a pair of second-half penalties scored by Kenny Dalglish's team.
Fran Kirby had given the visitors the lead from the penalty spot in the first minute.
Two-time winners of the WSL are back in the top-flight after a two-year absence, while another two-time winners are trying to win a fourth successive title.
The most people to attend a women's game in the city was at Prenton Park.
When Gilly Flaherty clipped Guro Reiten in the box, it looked like it was going to be a penalty.
Kirby kept her cool and she and her team began to control the game.
In the first half, new signing Emma Koivisto poked a rebound over the bar from a few yards out, but it was too little, too late.
The movement of the Blues' midfield caused problems as they appeared in control.
Kerr had a goal ruled out when she thumped in a half volley from the edge of the box, but Scotland's international struck an effort inches away.
The side started where they left off after the break, but they were punished for a mistake in the box by Kadeisha Buchanan, who gave away a penalty in the 20th minute.
It was a great way for the team to mark their return to the WSL under Beard, who guided them to back-to-back titles the last time he was in charge.
The WSL season got off to a great start when Villa beat City at Villa Park.
The visitors were full of creativity and movement but lacked a ruthless edge in the final third, which was hurt by the late withdrawal of Pernille Harder.
The intensity of the game caused problems for the Reds as they had to adjust to the change of play.
But as the game wore on and Beard had gathered his players in at half-time, the team started to play better.
The WSL debutant, who scored on her home debut for the Reds, stepped up impressively to put away both penalties in front of the crowd.
As they aim to consolidate a place in the league, it was a sign of their intent.
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