Manchester United U18s Draw 2-2 Against Liverpool
Manchester United U18s suffered a heartbreaking draw against their rivals Liverpool in the U18 Premier League North fixture played at the Liverpool Training Centre on Saturday. Despite leading by two goals, the young Red Devils were unable to secure the victory, ultimately ending the match at 2-2.
Tactical Changes and Goalscorers
Head coach Adam Lawrence made a couple of tactical adjustments to the side that had previously lost to West Ham United in the Premier League Cup. Victor Musa was chosen to lead the line, replacing Chido Obi-Martin, who had been involved with the U21s on Friday against Tottenham. Additionally, Cameron Byrne-Hughes replaced Will Murdock in goal, and Dan Armer came into the defense for Jayden Kamason.
United took the lead in the 17th minute as Albert Mills headed Jim Thwaites’ corner to Victor Musa, who found the back of the net. Musa then doubled the advantage in the 28th minute, expertly heading in a cross from captain Reece Munro.
However, Liverpool managed to pull one back before the half-time break through Joshua Sonni-Lambie, whose deflected shot found its way past Byrne-Hughes.
The Reds continued to press in the second half, creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities, but the United goalkeeper stood firm, denying their efforts.
Late Comeback and Missed Opportunities
United had chances to seal the victory, but Thwaites’ free-kick drifted narrowly wide, and Hall parried away Kukonki’s header. Musa was also denied his first hat-trick of the season, and substitute Shea Lacey was unable to find the net on his return from injury.
In the dying moments of the match, Liverpool leveled the score through Tyler Martin’s deflected strike from a corner, denying United the chance to close the gap on league leaders Manchester City.
Looking Ahead
The draw means United have failed to win their last two games and will be hoping to return to winning ways when they host Chelsea in the FA Youth Cup fifth round on Wednesday. This result leaves them three points behind Manchester City in the league table, and they will be eager to bounce back and maintain their pursuit of the title.
