EFL Trophy: Man Utd U21s Triumph, Premier League Youth Sides Stumble
The EFL Trophy saw mixed fortunes for Premier League youth sides, with Manchester United's Under-21s emerging victorious while Leicester, West Ham and Crystal Palace's young teams suffered defeats.
At Oakwell, Manchester United's Under-21s staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 3-1 win against Barnsley. After a goalless first half, Ethan Ennis initiated the turnaround in the 81st minute, before midfielder Jack Fletcher, son of former United regular Darren, bagged a brace in quick succession, netting in the 85th and 89th minutes.
The match saw a historic moment as 15-year-old Oliver Wilkinson became Barnsley's youngest-ever starter, making his debut at just six months and 27 days old. Another teenager, 18-year-old Wales youth international Vimal Yoganathan, stole the show in the first half, scoring his first senior goals, finding the net twice against former England goalkeeper Tom Heaton.
Elsewhere, EFL newcomers Chesterfield secured a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Manchester City's Under-21s. Will Dickson hit the post with his spot-kick, while Jacob Wright saw his effort saved by Chesterfield goalkeeper Ashton Rinaldo, one of three debutants for the Spireites. Wright, who made a Champions League appearance as a substitute for Erling Haaland last season, had put City ahead in the second half with a spectacular free-kick, before Darren Oldaker equalised with 11 minutes remaining.
The Merseyside derby at Prenton Park witnessed a thrilling late turnaround as Everton's Under-21s overcame Tranmere Rovers 3-1. Josh Davison gave the League Two hosts an early lead in the 11th minute, but Everton fought back with three goals in the final five minutes.
New signing Beto, the Danish international forward on loan from Napoli, levelled the score in the 86th minute, put Everton ahead in stoppage time, and then saw his chipped effort over goalkeeper Joe Murphy finished off by 18-year-old forward Martin Sherif, who had earlier hit the post after the equaliser.
The EFL Trophy continues to provide valuable experience for young players, with the competition offering a platform for development and showcasing the talents of the next generation of footballers.
