Manchester United U18s were back in action this weekend as they faced Leeds United away in the U18 Premier League.
Coach Travis Beinnion named this starting XI: Harrison (GK), Ogunneye, Mantato, Jackson (C), Kingdon, Fitzgerald, Nolan, Berry, Musa, Scanlon, Williams. Subs: Kamason, Myles, Wheatley, Biancheri & Norkett.
Things started quite nicely for both teams, yet it was Leeds that got the lead first through an own goal by Ogunneye.
From that moment, United were always looking for the equalizer but unlucky to do so. First it was via a Scanlon chance however the offside flag was up. Harrison was called in action several times, but was always ready to make the save. Rivalry is huge between these two sides and one Fitzgerald tackle may have moved things a bit.
Wilson landed on Fitzgerald who seemed to bleeding from his nose. That’s all it took for things to be fired up a bit and start a row between the two teams. On the other hand, a Nolan shot meets Toulson who somehow returns the own goal favour. The tension began to rise as Wilson clearly did not forget their previous encounter as he throws Fitzgerald to the ground which ends with a booking.
What proceeds is a series of unfortunate events for Musa who just could not find the back of the net today. One of his efforts was such a clear chance, so frustrating that it did not go in. United had another chance with Musa by the end of the first half as Williams delivers a beautiful cross to Musa who hits a Leeds defender with the shot and does not get a chance to do something on the rebound. This signaled the end of the first half.
In the second half, it was the same story for Musa but this time a brilliant pass towards Williams gives United the deserved lead as Ethan makes no mistakes. New signing Biancheri came in for his U18’s debut and it did not take long for him to make an impression as he scores a great goal.
When things finally seemed more in control, Leeds had other plans coming. Harrison, a bit careless at the edge of the box, loses the ball and Andreucci scores. It was Andreucci again who escaped the defence to get the equalizer. United still had a chance to win it with Williams still, but in vain. Everything ends at 3-3.
A lot to learn from this game as it was a lively game but there were things United should have done better, clearly.
