Manchester United U18s were beaten 2-1 by Manchester City in the FA Youth Cup final at Joie Stadium on Thursday evening.
Ayden Heaven, Patrick Dorgu, Bruno Fernandes, Luke Shaw and Mason Mount alongside Michael Carrick and his coaching staff were in attendance to support the young Reds.
City created the game’s first clear-cut chance in the 24th minute. A free-kick was whipped into the area, and the ball fell kindly to Teddie Lamb, but Cameron Bryne-Hughes made a brilliant save to deny him.
United’s first real attempt came after the half-hour mark, when JJ Gabriel teed up Chido Obi. The Danish youngster failed to hit the target, as his attempt was blocked.
Floyd Samba gave City the lead in the 39th minute, curling a free-kick past the outstretched Bryne-Hughes.
The Cityzens’ lead only lasted for 59 seconds, with Godwill Kukonki drawing United level. The defender darted in the area to bundle Jim Thwaites’ cross home.
Bryne-Hughes denied City from restoring their lead just before interval, diving to keep out Harrison Miles’ strike from range.
The United goalkeeper was lucky not to concede a penalty early on in the second period, after bringing down Lamb.
Reigan Heskey came close to putting City ahead after a quick breakaway, orchestrated by Ryan McAidoo, but he could only hit the side netting.
Aidoo then cleverly got the better of Kukonki to get into a promising position, only to fire over the bar.
United finally threatened at the other end, with Gabriel firing his low shot straight at City goalkeeper Max Hudson.
Four minutes from time, Heskey scored the winner for tha Cityzens, cutting inside before curling past Bryne-Hughes.
