Manchester United U18’s were back in action this weekend after the International break. They played Southampton U18’s in the PL Cup.
This is how United lined up: Harrison, Ogunneye, Jackson, Kingdon, Amass, T. Fletcher, Fitzgerald, Sharpe, J. Fletcher, Scanlon, Wheatley. Subs: Devaney, Myles, Curley, Missin, Biancheri.
United started dominating from the early stages of the game first with Malachi Sharpe and then Harry Amass’ pass found Wheatley but his shot was stopped. Well, it did not take long for United to get the lead. Jack Fletcher has been really good this season for United. He proved this once again as his pass found Scanlon, but his shot was cleared. However, Ethan Wheatley managed to get a tap in and score in the rebound. While this game has been all United, Southampton had an incredible chance.
Yet again, Elyh Harrison’s bravery on that 1v1 kept the United lead.
It was time for another rebound goal from Ethan Wheatley. Malachi Sharpe’s shot from Jack Fletcher’s through ball was saved but Wheatley was in the right spot. The Fletcher – Scanlon – Wheatley trio is doing wonders in this game. Jack Fletcher’s setup was brilliant once again and it’s a hat-trick for Wheatley. For the second half United introduced various changes, without a drop in quality.
Ashton Missin who recently came on the pitch, plays a nice pass into Gabrielle Biancheri. The young Welsh makes no mistakes sending the ball in the back of the net. It was Biancheri who was brought down in the penalty area and the referee pointed at the penalty spot. A panenka penalty execution from Wheatley gets United the fifth and Wheatley’s fourth of the game.
In what can be deemed as a sloppy play, Southampton get one goal back as a consolation price. A brilliant performance all round, but Wheatley and Jack Fletcher were exceptional. United close to making it through.
Full time: Southampton 1-5 Manchester United
