Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP via Getty Images
Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP via Getty Images
The international break is over, and while Manchester United don’t play until next weekend, the under-21s were in action on Good Friday.
Adam Lawrence took his side away to Leeds United on Friday lunchtime, and a 2-1 victory has put Manchester United level on points with Chelsea at the top of the Premier League 2 table.
A brace from Jack Fletcher in the first half was ultimately decisive as Shea Lacey returned from injury to assist the first goal of the game, followed by Jack Moorhouse, who set up the second.
Shea Lacey walking off the pitch after Man Utd play Fulham
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Fletcher’s first came as Lacey played a corner short, only for the number 10 to send a cross into the box which somehow ended up in the far corner. The second for Fletcher was simpler, as he finished off a great move from Moorhouse.
United now has just one league game left, which is played next Friday. The Red Devils sit joint top of the table, only second on goal difference, and so it is out of their hands.
But the win over Leeds was vital ahead of Tuesday’s International Cup game against Real Madrid U21 at Old Trafford.
Below are all the game updates as they happened.
Full-time
United claim a massive win in their hopes to finish top of the table. A brace from Jack Fletcher in the first half ultimately secured the points.
2-0 Manchester United
Jack Fletcher scores his second. Brilliant finish with the assist from Moorhouse excellent after Lacey’s pass.
Assist: Moorhouse
Obi forces a save
Good pass in behind by Jack Fletcher sending Obi through one on one, but a good save denies him.
1-0 Manchester United
Jack Fletcher’s cross ends up sneaking into the far corner and United are 1-0 up! Aided by the wind. Shea Lacey took a short corner to Fletcher who then scored.
Assist: Shea Lacey
Lacey with a chance
First real chance for Lacey to stretch his legs but he runs out of grass as it goes behind for a goal kick.
Chido Obi will hope to impress
This season has been all about Chido Obi developing out of the spotlight, but with pre-season a likely target for him to return to the first-team fold, Obi will want to impress today.
[### Man Utd agree with Amorim’s assessment of Chido Obi, but have tackled his ‘frustration’ differently
Man Utd agree with Amorim’s assessment of Chido Obi, but have tackled his ‘frustration’ differently
Man Utd agree with Amorim’s assessment of Chido Obi, but have tackled his ‘frustration’ differently
Chido Obi became an unexpected bone of contention for Ruben Amorim at Man Utd, and what’s happened since doesn’t show him in a good light.…](https://www.unitedinfocus.com/opinion/man-utd-agree-with-amorims-assessment-of-chido-obi-but-have-tackled-his-frustration-differently/)
Shea Lacey returns
After some time on the sidelines, injured, Lacey is back for United’s U21 side today, starting against Leeds. Very strong side, which also sees the Fletcher twins and a returning Samuel Lusale back on the bench.
Manchester United confirmed XI
Murdock; Jackson, Aljofree, Fredricson, Kukonki; T Fletcher, Moorhouse, J Fletcher; Lacey, Obi, Musa
How to watch United vs Leeds U21
The game is being played at Thorp Arch Grange in Leeds. But fans can watch the game on MUTV with a paid subscription. Alternatively, we will bring you all the latest updates.
When is kick-off?
Manchester United’s under-21 side kick off at 12.30pm GMT against Leeds in Premier League 2 action.