UG1 - Round 13: Manchester United U21s 3 - 1 Bournemouth U21s
AFC Bournemouth have long been the yard stick that many clubs measure their youth setup by, and try to emulate. They have built an excellent academy and have seen multiple players graduate into their first team. To put it into context, the two strikers who started the game at Old Trafford would both get into the Senior first team at United! One of those strikers, Willian, opened the scoring after just 13 minutes and it all looked as though it was going to go wrong for the home side.
Thankfully, Toby Collyer was on hand to get the Red Devils back on terms before the half hour mark, and United took the lead in the 36th minute with a beautifully controlled strike by Kasukumya. Defender Kingdon made sure of the result with 25 minutes to go, putting United two goals ahead, and giving the Red Devils a huge three points.
Other than the goals, the game was very even, and it's a real positive for fans for the United U21s to see them go toe to toe with an incredible side, compete and also get a big three points.
Player of the Match: Toby Collyer
A huge all round performance from the young attacking midfielder guaranteed United three points today. His performance was a joy to behold, with three Key Passes, three Shots, an Assist and a goal. A brilliant performance and one that United fans will hope to see replicated in the Seniors!
Well played @Matt
The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
FYC - Round 2 - Group Game 2: Watford U21s 0 - 1 Manchester United U21s
A solitary strike was enough to see United continue their good start to the Second Round Group Phase in the FA Youth Cup. Gabriele Biancheri grabbed his 10th goal in all competitions midway through the first half to score the only goal of the game. It was a tense affair between the two sides at Vicarage Road, with both sides having good chances to score before Biancheri's strike. Both goalkeepers were in fine form to keep their opponent at bay, with Jones keeping out Otchere, and Whatmuff saving well from Graham.
The game continued to go from end to end, with Smith looking dangerous for Watford. His shot from outside the box looked like it was sailing in before deviating just wide of the post. Watford threw everything at United as the game headed towards it's end, and it left gaps for United to try and exploit. Ibragimov had a great chance to put the result beyond doubt, but his chipped shot didn't make it over Jones.
Watford couldn't muster an equaliser, and the game ended with just the solitary strike separating the two sides. It sees United take six points from their first two games, sitting top of the Group.
Player of the Match: Floyd Samba
Samba picks up his second Player of the Match award, driving the side forward from the middle of the park. HIs four Key Passes and an Assist ensured United took three points from the game, and despite being rated lower than his teammates, showed he is ready for football at this level.
Well played @Dazoctaron
A solitary strike was enough to see United continue their good start to the Second Round Group Phase in the FA Youth Cup. Gabriele Biancheri grabbed his 10th goal in all competitions midway through the first half to score the only goal of the game. It was a tense affair between the two sides at Vicarage Road, with both sides having good chances to score before Biancheri's strike. Both goalkeepers were in fine form to keep their opponent at bay, with Jones keeping out Otchere, and Whatmuff saving well from Graham.
The game continued to go from end to end, with Smith looking dangerous for Watford. His shot from outside the box looked like it was sailing in before deviating just wide of the post. Watford threw everything at United as the game headed towards it's end, and it left gaps for United to try and exploit. Ibragimov had a great chance to put the result beyond doubt, but his chipped shot didn't make it over Jones.
Watford couldn't muster an equaliser, and the game ended with just the solitary strike separating the two sides. It sees United take six points from their first two games, sitting top of the Group.
Player of the Match: Floyd Samba
Samba picks up his second Player of the Match award, driving the side forward from the middle of the park. HIs four Key Passes and an Assist ensured United took three points from the game, and despite being rated lower than his teammates, showed he is ready for football at this level.
Well played @Dazoctaron
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
UG1 - Round 14: Manchester United U21s 0 - 1 Manchester City U21s
After a good run of form, the United youngsters came unstuck at home against their local rivals. Frustratingly, City failed to sheet so United were facing a default teamsheet from their city neighbours, and it paid off for the Citizens with Swed scoring the only goal of the game.
United dominated proceedings, creating more chances and having more of the possession, but once again the young forwards failed to convert their chances into goals. Kasukumya had a frustrating day at the office, having three shots but not scoring any of them.
On paper, City have a stronger squad than United, and the performance from the home side was very strong, pointing to a positive future for the club despite the result. It's another game where the fledglings have failed to score though, and this will need to be addressed by the coaching staff.
Player of the Match: Jack Taylor
Jack Taylor was once again the pivot for the United midfield, and he picks up the Player of the Match award here. Taylor contributed three Key Passes and had one Shot at goal during the game, and continues to thrive in the United setup.
Well played @Mararnt87
After a good run of form, the United youngsters came unstuck at home against their local rivals. Frustratingly, City failed to sheet so United were facing a default teamsheet from their city neighbours, and it paid off for the Citizens with Swed scoring the only goal of the game.
United dominated proceedings, creating more chances and having more of the possession, but once again the young forwards failed to convert their chances into goals. Kasukumya had a frustrating day at the office, having three shots but not scoring any of them.
On paper, City have a stronger squad than United, and the performance from the home side was very strong, pointing to a positive future for the club despite the result. It's another game where the fledglings have failed to score though, and this will need to be addressed by the coaching staff.
Player of the Match: Jack Taylor
Jack Taylor was once again the pivot for the United midfield, and he picks up the Player of the Match award here. Taylor contributed three Key Passes and had one Shot at goal during the game, and continues to thrive in the United setup.
Well played @Mararnt87
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
UG1 - Round 15: Arsenal U21s 1 - 0 Manchester United U21s
A second consecutive 1-0 defeat for the United youngsters, this time on the road as they travelled to London to face Arsenal. United experimented with a new tactic against City in Round 14, and once again changed as they searched for a return to winning ways at Arsenal. Unfortunately an early goal put the hosts ahead, and United were unable to find a way back into the game.
After going a goal behind, United threw everything at Arsenal, but the recent change of style and shape led to a loss of cohesion in the midfield, and Arsenal looked comfortable and not threatened. It's a second difficult result to take, and another game where the strikers failed to convert their chances.
Player of the Match: M Ali
Despite playing attacking football for much of the game, Ali came away as Player of the Match. Ali registered four Key Tackles in the match, as well as contributing one Key Pass.
Well played @Fenris
A second consecutive 1-0 defeat for the United youngsters, this time on the road as they travelled to London to face Arsenal. United experimented with a new tactic against City in Round 14, and once again changed as they searched for a return to winning ways at Arsenal. Unfortunately an early goal put the hosts ahead, and United were unable to find a way back into the game.
After going a goal behind, United threw everything at Arsenal, but the recent change of style and shape led to a loss of cohesion in the midfield, and Arsenal looked comfortable and not threatened. It's a second difficult result to take, and another game where the strikers failed to convert their chances.
Player of the Match: M Ali
Despite playing attacking football for much of the game, Ali came away as Player of the Match. Ali registered four Key Tackles in the match, as well as contributing one Key Pass.
Well played @Fenris
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
FYC - Round 2 - Group Game 3: Newcastle United U21s 0 - 2 Manchester United U21s
An unfortunate administration error meant that the Newcastle youngsters were left without much direction for this game, and it played into United's hands as they came away with another strong performance in the cup. Kasukumya and Andiyapan grabbed a goal each either side of half time to ensure that United made the most of their possession, and continued their great start to the cup tournament.
Kasukumya opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark, latching onto a through ball by Egan-Riley, and firing past the Newcastle keeper. It was a fine move by the striker to find space and lash his shot into the bottom corner. With the game looking like it would sway back towards the home side, the second goal came at exactly the right time, and against the run of play. The ball broke to Gardner who found Andiyapan in space, and he scored the well known wicked snap bender to make it 2-0 and see the game out.
The away side dominated proceedings and got the result their performance deserved. After two difficult defeats in the league, it was a big confidence booster to get three points at St James Park.
Player of the Match: Louis Gardner
The midfielder played in the double pivot alongside Floyd Samba, and ensured United kept the ball ticking over in midfield. He registered one Key Tackle, two Key Passes and an important assist for Andiyapan to put the game beyond doubt.
Well played @stocko74
An unfortunate administration error meant that the Newcastle youngsters were left without much direction for this game, and it played into United's hands as they came away with another strong performance in the cup. Kasukumya and Andiyapan grabbed a goal each either side of half time to ensure that United made the most of their possession, and continued their great start to the cup tournament.
Kasukumya opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark, latching onto a through ball by Egan-Riley, and firing past the Newcastle keeper. It was a fine move by the striker to find space and lash his shot into the bottom corner. With the game looking like it would sway back towards the home side, the second goal came at exactly the right time, and against the run of play. The ball broke to Gardner who found Andiyapan in space, and he scored the well known wicked snap bender to make it 2-0 and see the game out.
The away side dominated proceedings and got the result their performance deserved. After two difficult defeats in the league, it was a big confidence booster to get three points at St James Park.
Player of the Match: Louis Gardner
The midfielder played in the double pivot alongside Floyd Samba, and ensured United kept the ball ticking over in midfield. He registered one Key Tackle, two Key Passes and an important assist for Andiyapan to put the game beyond doubt.
Well played @stocko74
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
UG1 - Round 16: Manchester United U21s 0 - 1 Tottenham Hotspur U21s
Those of a certain age will remember the old song "One-nil to the Arsenal"... well now it feels more like 1-0 to whoever Manchester United U21s are playing! A third straight 1-0 defeat in the league has seen United drop from fifth in the table after the Bournemouth win, to 8th and looking over their shoulder at the bottom three.
James scored the only goal of the game after 37 minutes, a strike that came against the run of play. United had enjoyed a number of opportunities, all wasted as per usual, and had a penalty overturned after 25 minutes. VAR intervened to nullify the penalty call, which would seem the correct decision based on the commentary. Once again, Kirsten Otchere looked lively for the home side, creating chances and being at the centre of the penalty incident, but Spurs were getting a foot in the game with Mikey Moore having two good attempts at goal.
United had three decent patches of play prior to the Spurs goal, with James lashing the ball past Whatmuff. Spurs immediately shut up shop, and saw the game out. It was another frustrating outcome for the United youngsters, albeit from a much better performance.
Player of the Match: Tyler Fletcher
The young midfielder created two Key Passes during the game and had a shot on goal, and picks up his first Player of the Match award for the season. Taylor and Freedman also had strong games for United, as they toiled to no avail.
Well played @Pezza
Those of a certain age will remember the old song "One-nil to the Arsenal"... well now it feels more like 1-0 to whoever Manchester United U21s are playing! A third straight 1-0 defeat in the league has seen United drop from fifth in the table after the Bournemouth win, to 8th and looking over their shoulder at the bottom three.
James scored the only goal of the game after 37 minutes, a strike that came against the run of play. United had enjoyed a number of opportunities, all wasted as per usual, and had a penalty overturned after 25 minutes. VAR intervened to nullify the penalty call, which would seem the correct decision based on the commentary. Once again, Kirsten Otchere looked lively for the home side, creating chances and being at the centre of the penalty incident, but Spurs were getting a foot in the game with Mikey Moore having two good attempts at goal.
United had three decent patches of play prior to the Spurs goal, with James lashing the ball past Whatmuff. Spurs immediately shut up shop, and saw the game out. It was another frustrating outcome for the United youngsters, albeit from a much better performance.
Player of the Match: Tyler Fletcher
The young midfielder created two Key Passes during the game and had a shot on goal, and picks up his first Player of the Match award for the season. Taylor and Freedman also had strong games for United, as they toiled to no avail.
Well played @Pezza
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
FYC - Round 2 - Group Game 4: Manchester United U21s 0 - 0 Newcastle United U21s
The FA Youth Cup gave yet more solace to the Manchester United fans, and whilst United failed to capitalise, they were able to keep another valuable clean sheet. Despite the score line, the game had plenty of action and United looked as though they would take an early lead after sustained pressure. Kasukumya was the focal point of the United chances, having three chances in the opening four minutes! All of which were either saved or missed, but the big turning point came just after the half hour mark.
The striker managed to break free of the Newcastle defence, and as he was bearing down on Hudson's goal, he was taken down by Magpies defender Beresford - 90s football fans will remember John Beresford playing for Newcastle! The penalty was given, but no punishment for the young defender, much to the dismay of the United faithful. Kasukumya stepped up to take the penalty, but his tame effort missed the goal. It was a big miss, and one that cost United three points.
Nothing much happened for the rest of the game, until the very last action in the 91st minute. Beresford was involved again, and as he carried the ball forward he shot towards the United goal. Whatmuff stumbled and fell and could only watch as the ball trickled past him. The Newcastle fans thought they'd won it at the end, but the linesman raised his flag and it was disallowed.
United were the stronger side throughout, but as we've written multiple times, the strikers are not scoring enough goals, which we cannot seem to fix!
Player of the Match: Jack Kingdon
The Manchester United defender picks up the Player of the Match award after a strong defensive contribution. Newcastle only registered four attempts on goal, and this was testament to the defensive prowess of Kingdon who made three Key Tackles, one Key Pass and even managed a shot. An impressive performance from the youngster.
Well played @stocko74
The FA Youth Cup gave yet more solace to the Manchester United fans, and whilst United failed to capitalise, they were able to keep another valuable clean sheet. Despite the score line, the game had plenty of action and United looked as though they would take an early lead after sustained pressure. Kasukumya was the focal point of the United chances, having three chances in the opening four minutes! All of which were either saved or missed, but the big turning point came just after the half hour mark.
The striker managed to break free of the Newcastle defence, and as he was bearing down on Hudson's goal, he was taken down by Magpies defender Beresford - 90s football fans will remember John Beresford playing for Newcastle! The penalty was given, but no punishment for the young defender, much to the dismay of the United faithful. Kasukumya stepped up to take the penalty, but his tame effort missed the goal. It was a big miss, and one that cost United three points.
Nothing much happened for the rest of the game, until the very last action in the 91st minute. Beresford was involved again, and as he carried the ball forward he shot towards the United goal. Whatmuff stumbled and fell and could only watch as the ball trickled past him. The Newcastle fans thought they'd won it at the end, but the linesman raised his flag and it was disallowed.
United were the stronger side throughout, but as we've written multiple times, the strikers are not scoring enough goals, which we cannot seem to fix!
Player of the Match: Jack Kingdon
The Manchester United defender picks up the Player of the Match award after a strong defensive contribution. Newcastle only registered four attempts on goal, and this was testament to the defensive prowess of Kingdon who made three Key Tackles, one Key Pass and even managed a shot. An impressive performance from the youngster.
Well played @stocko74
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
UG1 - Round 17: Manchester United U21s 2 - 1 Newcastle United U21s
Hopefully Newcastle got a good rate on a hotel in Manchester, with the teams facing off again in Round 17 of the league. This was the third game between the two sides in the last four matches, and consecutive games between the two at Old Trafford. After three straight 1-0 defeats in the league, it was a big game for United to get back to winning ways and goals from Biancheri and a last minute winner from Andiyapan secured those priceless points.
Gabriele Biancheri opened the scoring with his 11th goal of the season, his seventh in the league, as he forged a chance from absolutely nothing. He burst past Charlton before firing home past Hudson who could do nothing to stop the strike. It was a fierce drive, and the Italian forward enjoyed celebrating with the home fans. Charlton wasn't having the best of games, and after a couple of clumsy challenges, it looked as though he'd gifted United a penalty after Finley McAllister was fouled in the box. Fortunately for the visitors, VAR stepped in to rule it out.
United were struggling to find their rhythm due to some very heavy challenges from the visiting Newcastle players. Beresford and Valencia were both lucky to remain on the pitch after fouling Biancheri, and Charlton finally received the yellow card he had deserved in stoppage time. The aggression seemed to turn with the half time whistle, as United had two players yellow carded just after the break, but United continued to push forward to look to secure their second goal.
A piece of magic however got Newcastle back into the tie, with Emerson playing a wonderful 50-yard pass to Bas-Fisher, who fired past Whatmuff. Once again, Whatmuff stumbled over in an embarrassed heap and saw the ball trickle into the net. It looked as though another stumble from Whatmuff had cost United three points, but thankfully he was rescued in injury time as defender Andiyapan created a strike out of nowhere. After winning the ball, he turned to hit his effort into the top corner and give Newcastle keeper Hudson no chance.
There was still time for both teams to have chances, with Collyer having two chances to extend United's lead, both of which had the keeper beaten as the first cannoned off the post and the second sailed wide. Whatmuff made up for his earlier mistake, saving from Ezenwata to ensure the three points stayed in Manchester.
Player of the Match: William Andiyapan
As well as scoring the late winner, William Andiyapan secures the Player of the Match award. He created one Key Pass as well as scoring from his only attempt on goal.
Well played @stocko74
Hopefully Newcastle got a good rate on a hotel in Manchester, with the teams facing off again in Round 17 of the league. This was the third game between the two sides in the last four matches, and consecutive games between the two at Old Trafford. After three straight 1-0 defeats in the league, it was a big game for United to get back to winning ways and goals from Biancheri and a last minute winner from Andiyapan secured those priceless points.
Gabriele Biancheri opened the scoring with his 11th goal of the season, his seventh in the league, as he forged a chance from absolutely nothing. He burst past Charlton before firing home past Hudson who could do nothing to stop the strike. It was a fierce drive, and the Italian forward enjoyed celebrating with the home fans. Charlton wasn't having the best of games, and after a couple of clumsy challenges, it looked as though he'd gifted United a penalty after Finley McAllister was fouled in the box. Fortunately for the visitors, VAR stepped in to rule it out.
United were struggling to find their rhythm due to some very heavy challenges from the visiting Newcastle players. Beresford and Valencia were both lucky to remain on the pitch after fouling Biancheri, and Charlton finally received the yellow card he had deserved in stoppage time. The aggression seemed to turn with the half time whistle, as United had two players yellow carded just after the break, but United continued to push forward to look to secure their second goal.
A piece of magic however got Newcastle back into the tie, with Emerson playing a wonderful 50-yard pass to Bas-Fisher, who fired past Whatmuff. Once again, Whatmuff stumbled over in an embarrassed heap and saw the ball trickle into the net. It looked as though another stumble from Whatmuff had cost United three points, but thankfully he was rescued in injury time as defender Andiyapan created a strike out of nowhere. After winning the ball, he turned to hit his effort into the top corner and give Newcastle keeper Hudson no chance.
There was still time for both teams to have chances, with Collyer having two chances to extend United's lead, both of which had the keeper beaten as the first cannoned off the post and the second sailed wide. Whatmuff made up for his earlier mistake, saving from Ezenwata to ensure the three points stayed in Manchester.
Player of the Match: William Andiyapan
As well as scoring the late winner, William Andiyapan secures the Player of the Match award. He created one Key Pass as well as scoring from his only attempt on goal.
Well played @stocko74
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Re: The Class of 32 - Manchester United U21 News
End of Season Round Up
United's U21s season ends in dismal run
After beating Newcastle United in Round 17, United's youngsters were looking up the table after breaking a three game losing streak. Unfortunately, fortunes didn't pick up and the youngsters continued to struggle through to the end of term, finishing a disappointing 9th place in the table. There were some highlights of course, but in a season where their highest position was fifth, fans were hoping for more to come from the acclaimed Old Trafford youth program.
R18: Manchester City U21s 2 - 0 Manchester United
Goals from Moss and Yildiz were enough to ensure bragging rights remained in the blue half of Manchester. William Andiyapan picked up his second consecutive Player of the Match trophy, as United remained in 7th in the table.
R19: Manchester United U21s 0 - 1 Crystal Palace U21s
Another defeat, and another blank for United as they stumbled at home to Crystal Palace. Derry netted the only goal in the 37th minute, but the home side created very little to threaten the visitors goalkeeper. The defeat saw United remain in seventh, but any hope of a top four finish was long gone and fans were left to question where the next win would come from. Jack Taylor was named Player of the Match for his performance in midfield.
R20: Nottingham Forest U21s 1 - 1 Manchester United U21s
A 94th minute Ali own goal stopped United finally getting back to winning ways, after Otchere had given them the lead just before the hour mark. In an incredibly even game, the draw was the fair result, but as added time ticked on, it seemed United would pinch the three points. It wasn't to be, and the draw ensured United continued their drift down the table, dropping two places to ninth. Otchere was named as Player of the Match for his goal, as an enthralling match ended in thrilling fashion!
R21: Wolverhampton U21s 0 - 0 Manchester United U21s
Another draw, and another blank for United, as they failed to register a goal once again. Wolves offered very little in ways of opposition, and it was United's profligacy once again that cost them. Kasukumya and Biancheri shared nine shots between them, but they couldn't get past Benjamin in the Wolves net. Penman had an excellent game at the back for United and picked up the Player of the Match award, as United remained ninth.
R22: Manchester United U21s 2 - 0 Everton U21s
United finally broke their winless run with a strong performance at home to Everton. Kasukumya rattled in two goals and after wasting so many chances in the previous game, he found his shooting boots at last! McAllister picked up the Player of the Match award for his performance in midfield, making four Key Passes and grabbing an Assist as he looks to be headed into the first team picture for Season 33. United returned to 7th with the win.
R23: Liverpool U21s 1 - 1 Manchester United U21s
Another own goal nearly cost United at Anfield as Penman fired past his own goalkeeper to give Liverpool the lead. Kasukumya came through to rescue a point for United just before full time, but once again the Red Devils were struggling to convert their chances. Kasukumya claimed Player of the Match as United stayed 7th.
R24: Manchester United U21s 0 - 2 Fulham U21s
Nothing went right for Untied in Round 24 as they hosted Fulham. Despite dominating the match, the hosts gave away two goals from Fulham's three shots! It wasn't to be for the Red Devils, and this game almost encapsulated the whole season in one match. Lots of chances, lots of possession, the better team but no cutting edge up front! McAllister once again impressed in midfield, picking up the Player of the Match award as United dropped back down to 8th.
R25: Norwich City U21s 3 - 0 Manchester United U21s
For the second time in two games, the scoreline didn't really reflect the performance as United were washed away by Norwich City. United had more possession and fairly equal stats. However, Norwich registered five shots on target and scored three times, with United registering just one shot on target. Ali picked up the Player of the Match award for his defensive work, but United slip down to 9th place.
R26: Manchester United U21s 0 - 0 Burnley U21s
A drab score less draw to end a drab season felt apt as United were held at home by local rivals Burnley. United toiled and created some great chances, but they went begging as once again they failed to convert. Burnley's goalkeeper Harrison made 9 saves during the game to keep United at bay, and whilst the strikers had finally figured out where the goal was, they found a keeper in excellent form. Ali once again took Player of the Match, and United ended the season in 9th place.
Final Table:
United finished comfortably above the relegation spots but were massively off the pace of those in the top half, finishing 8 points behind Wolves who finished sixth. United end the season with the best defensive record, conceding less than one goal per game, but their poor chance conversion cost them dearly and fans will be hopeful of a better outing in Season 33.
Over the season, Manchester United U21s had had 232 shots at goal in the league, and only managed to score 28 goals! To put that into context, United were generating 8.92 shots per game but only scoring 1.07 goals per game. In comparison, the backline were resolute conceding just 0.86 goals per game and the goalkeepers saving 3.19 shots per game.
United's U21s season ends in dismal run
After beating Newcastle United in Round 17, United's youngsters were looking up the table after breaking a three game losing streak. Unfortunately, fortunes didn't pick up and the youngsters continued to struggle through to the end of term, finishing a disappointing 9th place in the table. There were some highlights of course, but in a season where their highest position was fifth, fans were hoping for more to come from the acclaimed Old Trafford youth program.
R18: Manchester City U21s 2 - 0 Manchester United
Goals from Moss and Yildiz were enough to ensure bragging rights remained in the blue half of Manchester. William Andiyapan picked up his second consecutive Player of the Match trophy, as United remained in 7th in the table.
R19: Manchester United U21s 0 - 1 Crystal Palace U21s
Another defeat, and another blank for United as they stumbled at home to Crystal Palace. Derry netted the only goal in the 37th minute, but the home side created very little to threaten the visitors goalkeeper. The defeat saw United remain in seventh, but any hope of a top four finish was long gone and fans were left to question where the next win would come from. Jack Taylor was named Player of the Match for his performance in midfield.
R20: Nottingham Forest U21s 1 - 1 Manchester United U21s
A 94th minute Ali own goal stopped United finally getting back to winning ways, after Otchere had given them the lead just before the hour mark. In an incredibly even game, the draw was the fair result, but as added time ticked on, it seemed United would pinch the three points. It wasn't to be, and the draw ensured United continued their drift down the table, dropping two places to ninth. Otchere was named as Player of the Match for his goal, as an enthralling match ended in thrilling fashion!
R21: Wolverhampton U21s 0 - 0 Manchester United U21s
Another draw, and another blank for United, as they failed to register a goal once again. Wolves offered very little in ways of opposition, and it was United's profligacy once again that cost them. Kasukumya and Biancheri shared nine shots between them, but they couldn't get past Benjamin in the Wolves net. Penman had an excellent game at the back for United and picked up the Player of the Match award, as United remained ninth.
R22: Manchester United U21s 2 - 0 Everton U21s
United finally broke their winless run with a strong performance at home to Everton. Kasukumya rattled in two goals and after wasting so many chances in the previous game, he found his shooting boots at last! McAllister picked up the Player of the Match award for his performance in midfield, making four Key Passes and grabbing an Assist as he looks to be headed into the first team picture for Season 33. United returned to 7th with the win.
R23: Liverpool U21s 1 - 1 Manchester United U21s
Another own goal nearly cost United at Anfield as Penman fired past his own goalkeeper to give Liverpool the lead. Kasukumya came through to rescue a point for United just before full time, but once again the Red Devils were struggling to convert their chances. Kasukumya claimed Player of the Match as United stayed 7th.
R24: Manchester United U21s 0 - 2 Fulham U21s
Nothing went right for Untied in Round 24 as they hosted Fulham. Despite dominating the match, the hosts gave away two goals from Fulham's three shots! It wasn't to be for the Red Devils, and this game almost encapsulated the whole season in one match. Lots of chances, lots of possession, the better team but no cutting edge up front! McAllister once again impressed in midfield, picking up the Player of the Match award as United dropped back down to 8th.
R25: Norwich City U21s 3 - 0 Manchester United U21s
For the second time in two games, the scoreline didn't really reflect the performance as United were washed away by Norwich City. United had more possession and fairly equal stats. However, Norwich registered five shots on target and scored three times, with United registering just one shot on target. Ali picked up the Player of the Match award for his defensive work, but United slip down to 9th place.
R26: Manchester United U21s 0 - 0 Burnley U21s
A drab score less draw to end a drab season felt apt as United were held at home by local rivals Burnley. United toiled and created some great chances, but they went begging as once again they failed to convert. Burnley's goalkeeper Harrison made 9 saves during the game to keep United at bay, and whilst the strikers had finally figured out where the goal was, they found a keeper in excellent form. Ali once again took Player of the Match, and United ended the season in 9th place.
Final Table:
Code: Select all
Pl Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
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1 Manchester_City_U21s 26 19 2 5 45 28 17 59
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2 Bournemouth_U21s 26 14 5 7 42 29 13 47
3 Crystal_Palace_U21s 26 13 4 9 36 33 3 43
4 Tottenham_Hotspur_U21s 26 13 4 9 33 31 2 43
5 Liverpool_U21s 26 12 6 8 49 36 13 42
6 Wolverhampton_U21s 26 11 6 9 34 40 -6 39
7 Fulham_U21s 26 11 5 10 46 39 7 38
8 Norwich_City_U21s 26 9 6 11 37 27 10 33
9 Manchester_United_U21s 26 8 7 11 28 24 4 31
10 Burnley_U21s 26 7 9 10 28 31 -3 30
11 Nottingham_Forest_U21s 26 4 16 6 29 30 -1 28
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12 Newcastle_United_U21s 26 8 2 16 37 58 -21 26
13 Everton_U21s 26 6 5 15 23 45 -22 23
14 Arsenal_U21s 26 5 7 14 16 32 -16 22Over the season, Manchester United U21s had had 232 shots at goal in the league, and only managed to score 28 goals! To put that into context, United were generating 8.92 shots per game but only scoring 1.07 goals per game. In comparison, the backline were resolute conceding just 0.86 goals per game and the goalkeepers saving 3.19 shots per game.