Midfielder Bruno Fernandes and director of football Jason Wilcox were in attendance as Manchester United U21s made it back-to-back Premier League 2 wins, beating Norwich City 4-2 at Carrington on Friday afternoon.
The tie looked evenly poised at the early stages before United created the game’s first opportunity, with James Scanlon receiving a pass from Tyler Fletcher, but his effort was blocked.
The hosts took the lead in the 14th minute after Chido Obi intercepted goalkeeper Caleb Ansen’s pass before putting the ball into the net.
Seven minutes later, Norwich drew level through summer signing Luke Towler, who met Alan Domeracki’s free-kick to score.
United restored their lead on 23 minutes as Scanlon delivered a brilliant pass from a free-kick, allowing Dan Armer to head past the goalkeeper.
Armer nearly set up United’s third goal, sending a long ball which beat the Norwich defensive line towards Obi, whose effort was saved.
United started the second half strongly, with Obi forcing Ansen to make a save inside the opening minute.
The young Reds extended their lead in the 53rd minute after a brilliant team move. Fletcher combined with Sam Mather on the left, and the latter crossed to Ethan Ennis, who fired home from the back post.
Shortly after, Scanlon almost got on the scoresheet after receiving a pass from Harry Amass, but his effort from close range was blocked.
Despite United’s dominance, the visitors pulled one back in the 70th minute, when Errol Mundle-Smith curled a shot against the post before converting the rebound, setting up the game for a tense finale.
Dylan Jones almost completed the comeback for Norwich but saw his effort drift wide before substitute Gabriele Biancheri’s close-range attempt sailed wide of the post.
Jack Fletcher completed the scoring, coolly slotting the ball home to ensure Man United secured the maximum points.
The result sets up an enticing clash with city rivals and defending champions Manchester City next Sunday.