Any updates then?.
Youth Reports
- Thread starter Neil Thomson
- Start date
Just thinking that it should be finished by now.
1-1 final score. Steven Hogg scored the opener and Kazim-Richards equalised all in first half.
feck said:
How did Ruddy do? Could see him signed up if he done well.....
From Rednews. (they have a poster on their forum who appears to go to most reserve games).
Bury Reserves vs. United Reserves, Pontins Holidays League Division One (West) @ Gigg Lane 01/12/2004 KO 1400
United:- Ruddy; Simpson, M. Howard, Hogg, Eckersley; Fox (capt), R. Jones, Gibson; Timm, Calliste, Campbell
Subs:- S. Evans (for Gibson) 55 mins, Marsh (for Timm) 60 mins
Subs not used:- Crockett, Shawcross, Rose
A young United line-up, with an unfamiliar goalkeeper, visited Bury for a 'top of the table clash' in the Pontins League. United are joint top with Oldham (with a game in hand) and Bury are in 3rd place.
A slightly weaker than normal line-up as the senior reserve team play tomorrow night and several 'reserves' are in the squad for the Careless Cup game versus Arsenal. The unfamiliar goalkeeper being John Ruddy who is now with United on his second trial period in a few weeks from Cambridge United. Ruddy is an 18 year old who bares a decent resemblance to a Danish keeper who stood 'betwixt sticks' for United on a few occasions. He's just turned 18 and is 6'3" tall. As a matter of interest he is eligible to participate in the FA Youth Cup this season, based on age, and I don't think that he is Cup-tied although Cambridge United have played 2 ties already. Ruddy has been first choice for the Cambridge first team since Shaun Marshall was injured pre-season so may well have been saved from possible injury in the youth cup ties.
The Bury team also looked to be quite young, their star player seemed to be their number 9, Colin Kazim-Richards, who has made a few first team appearances from the subs bench. He is a big strong, old-fashioned type of centre forward with a good touch and at only 18 has time on his side.
United took the lead after only 10 minutes through Steven Hogg. A corner from the left was headed behind by the Bury defence and the following corner, from the right this time, was only partially cleared. A very fortuitous ricochet fell to Hogg only 5 yards from goal. He lashed the ball into the net with Collinge in the home goal having no chance at all. 0-1.
The home side equalised on 23 minutes in one of very few forays into the United half during the first period. Kazim-Richards received the ball with his back to goal some 20 yards out. He controlled it well and turned expertly before hitting a strong right foot shot just inside of the left hand post with Ruddy well beaten. 1-1.
On 38 minutes Bury threatened to take the lead. A corner from their left caused some consternation and Ruddy must only have got the barest of touches as the ball went behind for a corner on the right. This time Ruddy got nowhere near it as the ball was headed into the net at the far post. Happily the referee had seen some shenanigans in the 6 yard box with Ruddy unfairly impeded so a United freekick was the award.
During the second period neither team created much. The Bury boys did better than they had in the first period but the United performance remained very low key, almost lacklustre. Almost all of them seemed to be working, physically and mentally, at only about 75% of capacity. The Bury boys looked quicker and hungrier and were well worth their point. The Shakers might easily have taken all of the points as on 88 minutes a hopeful through ball was missed by Mark Howard leaving a Bury attacker one on one with Ruddy. The big blond looked very Schmeichel-esque as he blocked the shot.
So, a disappointing performance but a worthwhile point won. I'm not sure how much will have been learned about Ruddy as he had very few saves to make. He looked competent but I'm sure more will have been learned about him in training at Carrington than at Gigg Lane on this cold Wednesday afternoon.
As for man of the match nominations, it's a short shortlist! Richie Jones was tigerish in central midfield and fully earned his yellow card. At least he showed some drive and aggression, others might have followed his lead. Just ahead of Jones, for me, was Frazier Campbell. He ran after everything and could not have been accused of shirking his responsibilities. He is still young and got buffeted about a bit by his markers but he'll be wiser after this, only his second game at this level.
Next match-
Wolves @ Moss Lane, Altrincham. Barclay Premier Reserve League (Nth), Thursday 2nd December 2004. 1900 KO.
Bury Reserves vs. United Reserves, Pontins Holidays League Division One (West) @ Gigg Lane 01/12/2004 KO 1400
United:- Ruddy; Simpson, M. Howard, Hogg, Eckersley; Fox (capt), R. Jones, Gibson; Timm, Calliste, Campbell
Subs:- S. Evans (for Gibson) 55 mins, Marsh (for Timm) 60 mins
Subs not used:- Crockett, Shawcross, Rose
A young United line-up, with an unfamiliar goalkeeper, visited Bury for a 'top of the table clash' in the Pontins League. United are joint top with Oldham (with a game in hand) and Bury are in 3rd place.
A slightly weaker than normal line-up as the senior reserve team play tomorrow night and several 'reserves' are in the squad for the Careless Cup game versus Arsenal. The unfamiliar goalkeeper being John Ruddy who is now with United on his second trial period in a few weeks from Cambridge United. Ruddy is an 18 year old who bares a decent resemblance to a Danish keeper who stood 'betwixt sticks' for United on a few occasions. He's just turned 18 and is 6'3" tall. As a matter of interest he is eligible to participate in the FA Youth Cup this season, based on age, and I don't think that he is Cup-tied although Cambridge United have played 2 ties already. Ruddy has been first choice for the Cambridge first team since Shaun Marshall was injured pre-season so may well have been saved from possible injury in the youth cup ties.
The Bury team also looked to be quite young, their star player seemed to be their number 9, Colin Kazim-Richards, who has made a few first team appearances from the subs bench. He is a big strong, old-fashioned type of centre forward with a good touch and at only 18 has time on his side.
United took the lead after only 10 minutes through Steven Hogg. A corner from the left was headed behind by the Bury defence and the following corner, from the right this time, was only partially cleared. A very fortuitous ricochet fell to Hogg only 5 yards from goal. He lashed the ball into the net with Collinge in the home goal having no chance at all. 0-1.
The home side equalised on 23 minutes in one of very few forays into the United half during the first period. Kazim-Richards received the ball with his back to goal some 20 yards out. He controlled it well and turned expertly before hitting a strong right foot shot just inside of the left hand post with Ruddy well beaten. 1-1.
On 38 minutes Bury threatened to take the lead. A corner from their left caused some consternation and Ruddy must only have got the barest of touches as the ball went behind for a corner on the right. This time Ruddy got nowhere near it as the ball was headed into the net at the far post. Happily the referee had seen some shenanigans in the 6 yard box with Ruddy unfairly impeded so a United freekick was the award.
During the second period neither team created much. The Bury boys did better than they had in the first period but the United performance remained very low key, almost lacklustre. Almost all of them seemed to be working, physically and mentally, at only about 75% of capacity. The Bury boys looked quicker and hungrier and were well worth their point. The Shakers might easily have taken all of the points as on 88 minutes a hopeful through ball was missed by Mark Howard leaving a Bury attacker one on one with Ruddy. The big blond looked very Schmeichel-esque as he blocked the shot.
So, a disappointing performance but a worthwhile point won. I'm not sure how much will have been learned about Ruddy as he had very few saves to make. He looked competent but I'm sure more will have been learned about him in training at Carrington than at Gigg Lane on this cold Wednesday afternoon.
As for man of the match nominations, it's a short shortlist! Richie Jones was tigerish in central midfield and fully earned his yellow card. At least he showed some drive and aggression, others might have followed his lead. Just ahead of Jones, for me, was Frazier Campbell. He ran after everything and could not have been accused of shirking his responsibilities. He is still young and got buffeted about a bit by his markers but he'll be wiser after this, only his second game at this level.
Next match-
Wolves @ Moss Lane, Altrincham. Barclay Premier Reserve League (Nth), Thursday 2nd December 2004. 1900 KO.
MPTutd said:
They do indeed, his real name is Wayne but he's sometimes seen around here under an alias ................ anyone think that they can guess?
Never seen fog at a game like last night...before it was called off they literally couldn't see ten yards in front of them.
Plechazunga said:
It was quite funny listening to Paddy and Steve trying to guess what was going on on the other side of the pitch though.
I was surprised they even started the game.
Anybody hear how Eddie Johnson (the American one) is doing on his trial?
academy v Blackburn
Lost 1-2 after leading 1-0 (J. Evans scored)
Team: Crockett
Simpson J.Evans Shawcross Lee
Mullen Gibson Rose Martin
Burns Moran
Pustinen on for Burns
S.Evans on for Mullen
Heaton unused
Lea unused
Gray on for Moran
Lost 1-2 after leading 1-0 (J. Evans scored)
Team: Crockett
Simpson J.Evans Shawcross Lee
Mullen Gibson Rose Martin
Burns Moran
Pustinen on for Burns
S.Evans on for Mullen
Heaton unused
Lea unused
Gray on for Moran
How is lee martin doing?
Rovers return to haunt rookies
Two late goals gave Blackburn Rovers a 2-1 win over United's under-18s Academy side at Carrington yesterday.
United led from the 12th minute after Jonathan Evans had given them the lead, but Rovers, the group leaders, came back strongly to snatch the points in the closing stages.
Ralph Welch claimed the equaliser in the 81st minute and Luke Jones claimed the winner in the last minute of normal time.
The under-18s meet Stoke City at Newcastle Town's ground next Saturday morning (11am).
United reserves' Barclays League home fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers will have to be re-arranged after Thursday clash was abandoned after Altrincham's Moss Lane had become shrouded in fog.
Barely six minutes of the game had elapsed before referee decided that it was impossible to continue. The players were led from the field and a fifteen-minute deadline imposed for the visibility to improve. The difference was negligible when they reappeared and after consulting with both coaches the referee signalled that the game had been called off.
Amazingly, within ten minutes of the crowd departing the fog had lifted and every corner of the ground was perfectly visible from the main stand. No goals were scored during the brief action that took place.
Ricky Sbragia's team are back in action on Tuesday evening when travel to play Nottingham Forest at City Ground (7pm).
United's Pontin's Holidays League side have a home fixture next Wednesday when they meet Oldham Athletic at Ewen Fields, Hyde (7pm).
Two late goals gave Blackburn Rovers a 2-1 win over United's under-18s Academy side at Carrington yesterday.
United led from the 12th minute after Jonathan Evans had given them the lead, but Rovers, the group leaders, came back strongly to snatch the points in the closing stages.
Ralph Welch claimed the equaliser in the 81st minute and Luke Jones claimed the winner in the last minute of normal time.
The under-18s meet Stoke City at Newcastle Town's ground next Saturday morning (11am).
United reserves' Barclays League home fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers will have to be re-arranged after Thursday clash was abandoned after Altrincham's Moss Lane had become shrouded in fog.
Barely six minutes of the game had elapsed before referee decided that it was impossible to continue. The players were led from the field and a fifteen-minute deadline imposed for the visibility to improve. The difference was negligible when they reappeared and after consulting with both coaches the referee signalled that the game had been called off.
Amazingly, within ten minutes of the crowd departing the fog had lifted and every corner of the ground was perfectly visible from the main stand. No goals were scored during the brief action that took place.
Ricky Sbragia's team are back in action on Tuesday evening when travel to play Nottingham Forest at City Ground (7pm).
United's Pontin's Holidays League side have a home fixture next Wednesday when they meet Oldham Athletic at Ewen Fields, Hyde (7pm).
ruudvantastic said:
The other good bit was before the game, when they awarded the goal of the month to David Jones after a great team build-up...but then a clearly pissed Paddy chips in with, "Aye, but it was a team effort: who will they give the goal to?" "David Jones, obviously" sez Steve..."Oh aye, course..."
Plechazunga said:
Paddy is a legend.
Colin Heath has joined Cambridge on a months loan.
A younger than usual United reserve team (without all those who've gone to Turkey) lost 0:1 at Forest. Goalkeeper Heaton was sent off for handling the ball outside his area.
Pontins game
Taken from Oldhams official homepage:
: MANCHESTER UNITED 3 - 5 LATICS
Just as Fenerbache tamed Manchester United in Turkey on Wednesday night, John Sheridan's Reserve outfit were doing some giant-killing of their own!
Of course, Hyde's Ewen Fields ground didn't compare to the vast Sukru Saracoglu- and Champions League action was a world away from the Pontins League Division 1 (West).
However in the eyes many a Latics fan, a win against their rich neighbour always tastes sweet- wherever it may be!
The first 30 minutes of the match were largely uneventful, both sides trying to warm their legs on a cool evening.
However United were first to get into gear, with Giuseppe Rossi hitting a post after good cross from winger Sean Evans.
On 31 the Italian continued to impress, although could only hit into side netting after breaking through the Latics midfield.
A minute later United broke again, this time Fraizer Richardson finding some time and space although lacking with his end product as he hit straight at Mildenhall.
United were on top at this stage as the Red Devils tried another shot from distance on 33. However this 30-yard effort was comfortable for Mildenhall- who was beginning to break into a sweat!
A minute later United broke the deadlock, Richardson latching onto a through ball and lobbing Mildendhall who was coming out to meet him.
There was just 5 minutes of the half remaining before Latics tried their first attempt a goal, as a Boshell free kick was acrobatically tipped over by their 'keeper.
From the resulting corner United struggled to clear and Chris Lever punished by hitting into the bottom corner!
2nd Half
Spurred on by their late first-half goal, Latics came into the second half rejuvinated.
Sheridan's men immediately piled on the pressure as a good run and cross from Tierney couldn't quite reach the head of Wolfenden.
Latics took control of the game on 55 minutes. Chris Hall picked up a loose ball and pulled the trigger, only for the 'keeper to save having made good ground. However the United stopper could only parry as far as Wolfenden, who cooly passed into the net between two defenders.
Just 3 minutes later Boshell had an excellent shot saved- again the 'keeper needed to be alert when tipping over for the corner.
United's respite was short-lived as Arber headed in the resulting Boshell flag-kick. Again United were punished from the set-piece.
On the hour mark, the reserves were starting to mirror their senior colleagues the previous evening, as Chris Hall made it 4-1. A ball was delivered from half way then delivered to Bonner, who hit from the edge of area. Bonner was unlucky to see his effort deflect off the crossbar, although Hall made no mistake when pouncing on the rebound.
On 63 minutes the game was getting spicier, as Rossi clawed one back after breaking away. Mildenhall came off his line although stood no chance as Rossi cooly slotted home.
The best goal of the match was scored after 67 minutes although unfortunately it was Jamie Mullen for the Reds who found the net. It was one-touch football from the United penalty area which preceeded Mullen's strike. Mildenhall was left with no chance as Mullen cut in from left, putting his effort to right of Latics' new 'keeper for 4-3.
The game swung back in Latics' favour on 71 minutes, as Wolfenden forced it over from 6 yards. The young striker didn't know much about his goal to be fair, as the ball rolled in off him after a collision with the 'keeper. Boshell had cross from left and Hall headed back- Wolfenden then winning the clash.
On 72 minutes Ashley Winn came on for Woolcott.
Just a minute later a good save from Mildenhall on 6 yards mean that Latics' 2-goal cushion remained.
The second substitution followed on 76, as Chris Taylor replaced Mark Bonner. The experienced midfielder had enjoyed a useful workout following a lengthy injury lay-off.
John Sheridan then made his third and final change, introducing Kyle Jacobs for Kelvin Lomax- as Latics shored up their defence.
Latics played the last 8 minutes out comfortably, holding onto their 2-goal margin and recording an impressive 'away' win.
Latics: Mildenhall, Lomax (Jacobs, 82), Beharall, Lever, Arber, Boshell, Wolcott (Winn, 72), Bonner (C Taylor, 76), Tierney, C Hall, Wolfenden.
Subs (not used): Treacy.
Taken from Oldhams official homepage:
: MANCHESTER UNITED 3 - 5 LATICS
Just as Fenerbache tamed Manchester United in Turkey on Wednesday night, John Sheridan's Reserve outfit were doing some giant-killing of their own!
Of course, Hyde's Ewen Fields ground didn't compare to the vast Sukru Saracoglu- and Champions League action was a world away from the Pontins League Division 1 (West).
However in the eyes many a Latics fan, a win against their rich neighbour always tastes sweet- wherever it may be!
The first 30 minutes of the match were largely uneventful, both sides trying to warm their legs on a cool evening.
However United were first to get into gear, with Giuseppe Rossi hitting a post after good cross from winger Sean Evans.
On 31 the Italian continued to impress, although could only hit into side netting after breaking through the Latics midfield.
A minute later United broke again, this time Fraizer Richardson finding some time and space although lacking with his end product as he hit straight at Mildenhall.
United were on top at this stage as the Red Devils tried another shot from distance on 33. However this 30-yard effort was comfortable for Mildenhall- who was beginning to break into a sweat!
A minute later United broke the deadlock, Richardson latching onto a through ball and lobbing Mildendhall who was coming out to meet him.
There was just 5 minutes of the half remaining before Latics tried their first attempt a goal, as a Boshell free kick was acrobatically tipped over by their 'keeper.
From the resulting corner United struggled to clear and Chris Lever punished by hitting into the bottom corner!
2nd Half
Spurred on by their late first-half goal, Latics came into the second half rejuvinated.
Sheridan's men immediately piled on the pressure as a good run and cross from Tierney couldn't quite reach the head of Wolfenden.
Latics took control of the game on 55 minutes. Chris Hall picked up a loose ball and pulled the trigger, only for the 'keeper to save having made good ground. However the United stopper could only parry as far as Wolfenden, who cooly passed into the net between two defenders.
Just 3 minutes later Boshell had an excellent shot saved- again the 'keeper needed to be alert when tipping over for the corner.
United's respite was short-lived as Arber headed in the resulting Boshell flag-kick. Again United were punished from the set-piece.
On the hour mark, the reserves were starting to mirror their senior colleagues the previous evening, as Chris Hall made it 4-1. A ball was delivered from half way then delivered to Bonner, who hit from the edge of area. Bonner was unlucky to see his effort deflect off the crossbar, although Hall made no mistake when pouncing on the rebound.
On 63 minutes the game was getting spicier, as Rossi clawed one back after breaking away. Mildenhall came off his line although stood no chance as Rossi cooly slotted home.
The best goal of the match was scored after 67 minutes although unfortunately it was Jamie Mullen for the Reds who found the net. It was one-touch football from the United penalty area which preceeded Mullen's strike. Mildenhall was left with no chance as Mullen cut in from left, putting his effort to right of Latics' new 'keeper for 4-3.
The game swung back in Latics' favour on 71 minutes, as Wolfenden forced it over from 6 yards. The young striker didn't know much about his goal to be fair, as the ball rolled in off him after a collision with the 'keeper. Boshell had cross from left and Hall headed back- Wolfenden then winning the clash.
On 72 minutes Ashley Winn came on for Woolcott.
Just a minute later a good save from Mildenhall on 6 yards mean that Latics' 2-goal cushion remained.
The second substitution followed on 76, as Chris Taylor replaced Mark Bonner. The experienced midfielder had enjoyed a useful workout following a lengthy injury lay-off.
John Sheridan then made his third and final change, introducing Kyle Jacobs for Kelvin Lomax- as Latics shored up their defence.
Latics played the last 8 minutes out comfortably, holding onto their 2-goal margin and recording an impressive 'away' win.
Latics: Mildenhall, Lomax (Jacobs, 82), Beharall, Lever, Arber, Boshell, Wolcott (Winn, 72), Bonner (C Taylor, 76), Tierney, C Hall, Wolfenden.
Subs (not used): Treacy.
ATHLETIC reserves inflicted Manchester United’s first Pontins League defeat of the season in a remarkable match at Hyde United, writes TONY BUGBY.
Scoreless and uneventful for most of the opening period, the match suddenly exploded into life with all eight goals scored in the space of 38 minutes.
With the fringe players in action at Fenerbahce in the Champions League and the remaining reserves having played at Nottingham Forest the previous night, table-topping United were left to play their youth side.
Second-placed Athletic, by contrast, had plenty of experience in their team in debutant keeper Steve Mildenhall, who made some cracking saves, David Beharall, Mark Arber, Mark Bonner and Danny Boshell.
A delightful lob from striker Fraizer Campbell gave the Reds a 35th minute lead only for that to be cancelled out by central-defender Chris Lever who struck after going up for a corner.
The goal feast began early in the second half when Athletic scored three in a dramatic four-minute spell to take control.
United’s excellent young keeper Lee Crockett did well to foil Chris Hall only for Matty Wolfenden to slot home the rebound.
Arber then looped in a header for the third and Hall scored the fourth with a diving header after Bonner’s drive came back off the crossbar.
United staged a gutsy comeback with goals from Italian wonder kid Guiseppe Rossi and Finnish substitute Jamie Puustinen to reduce the deficit to 4-3.
But Wolfenden sealed victory in the 73rd minute as he appeared at the far post to bundle home a Lomax cross.
Scoreless and uneventful for most of the opening period, the match suddenly exploded into life with all eight goals scored in the space of 38 minutes.
With the fringe players in action at Fenerbahce in the Champions League and the remaining reserves having played at Nottingham Forest the previous night, table-topping United were left to play their youth side.
Second-placed Athletic, by contrast, had plenty of experience in their team in debutant keeper Steve Mildenhall, who made some cracking saves, David Beharall, Mark Arber, Mark Bonner and Danny Boshell.
A delightful lob from striker Fraizer Campbell gave the Reds a 35th minute lead only for that to be cancelled out by central-defender Chris Lever who struck after going up for a corner.
The goal feast began early in the second half when Athletic scored three in a dramatic four-minute spell to take control.
United’s excellent young keeper Lee Crockett did well to foil Chris Hall only for Matty Wolfenden to slot home the rebound.
Arber then looped in a header for the third and Hall scored the fourth with a diving header after Bonner’s drive came back off the crossbar.
United staged a gutsy comeback with goals from Italian wonder kid Guiseppe Rossi and Finnish substitute Jamie Puustinen to reduce the deficit to 4-3.
But Wolfenden sealed victory in the 73rd minute as he appeared at the far post to bundle home a Lomax cross.
United Res 3 Oldham Res 5
RISING United star Giuseppe Rossi was on the scoresheet on Wednesday night, but the Reds reserves surrendered their unbeaten Pontin's League record and top spot in the table at Ewen Fields, Hyde.
United's impressive sequence of eight games without defeat came to an end after Latics had hit them with a three-goal blast in as many minutes early in the second half.
All square at half-time after Fraizer Campbell's opener for United had been scrubbed out by Chris Lever two minutes before the break, it all started to go wrong for the young Reds in the 56th minute when Matthew Wolfenden put the visitors in front.
Goals from Mark Arber and Christopher Hall quickly followed, but then United replied through Rossi and Jami Puustinen to set up a grandstand finish.
Wolfenden grabbed his second of the night in the 71st minute to seal the points and send Latics leapfrogging over United to the top of the table.
UNITED: Crockett, Simpson, Lea, Evans J., Jones R., Gibson, Gray (Mullan, 54), Martin, Campbell (Puustinen, 62), Rossi, Evans S. (Rose, 75).
RISING United star Giuseppe Rossi was on the scoresheet on Wednesday night, but the Reds reserves surrendered their unbeaten Pontin's League record and top spot in the table at Ewen Fields, Hyde.
United's impressive sequence of eight games without defeat came to an end after Latics had hit them with a three-goal blast in as many minutes early in the second half.
All square at half-time after Fraizer Campbell's opener for United had been scrubbed out by Chris Lever two minutes before the break, it all started to go wrong for the young Reds in the 56th minute when Matthew Wolfenden put the visitors in front.
Goals from Mark Arber and Christopher Hall quickly followed, but then United replied through Rossi and Jami Puustinen to set up a grandstand finish.
Wolfenden grabbed his second of the night in the 71st minute to seal the points and send Latics leapfrogging over United to the top of the table.
UNITED: Crockett, Simpson, Lea, Evans J., Jones R., Gibson, Gray (Mullan, 54), Martin, Campbell (Puustinen, 62), Rossi, Evans S. (Rose, 75).
Eddie Johnson is back in the US after training with United: http://fc.dallas.mlsnet.com/MLS/new...1209&content_id=20037&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp
If he ever does decide to test the waters in Europe, Johnson is confident that he won't be out of his depth. He praised the hospitality of the United players, particularly fellow American Jonathan Spector, who chauffeured Johnson to and from training sessions and let Johnson use his home phone to call family and friends. He also noted that there is really no difference between soccer players in Europe and soccer players in the States.
If he ever does decide to test the waters in Europe, Johnson is confident that he won't be out of his depth. He praised the hospitality of the United players, particularly fellow American Jonathan Spector, who chauffeured Johnson to and from training sessions and let Johnson use his home phone to call family and friends. He also noted that there is really no difference between soccer players in Europe and soccer players in the States.
oskarutd said:
I think he mean Jamii Pustinen..
but still
Amid all the talk of Fletch, David Jones, and Ngalula as the big midfield hopefuls, am i the only one to be impressed by young Darron Gibson? Only seen him a couple of times but he ran the show. Still haven't seen Richie jones.
How old is Gibson and what kind of midfielder is he?how is Martin and Brandy playing these days?
I'm not sure...I think he might be 17. He's a big strong lad though, and seems full of driving running, tackling and good quick passing.
Never seen anything of Martin to get excited about yet, and never seen Brandy at all.
Byland is flourishing I hear.
Never seen anything of Martin to get excited about yet, and never seen Brandy at all.
Byland is flourishing I hear.
I've heard alot about Byland but never seen him on the teamsheet.If he exists what kind of player is he?position and potential?btw i am also a big david jones fan and can't work out why fergie doesn't give him a start.I think pique and rossi will make it and Jones has a better chance than eagles and blake etc.
and n'galula is in the rossi and pique catogary.
Plechazunga said:
You're not the only one. I'm not sure how old he is but he's a big strong lad - looks to be a fairly decent passer and I've seen him take a few good free kicks. Looking forward to seeing more of him in the reserves next season.
Uniteds' U18's beat Stoke 4-2, goals by Marsh(2) and Puustinen(2).
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/s..._reserves_united_under18s_4_stoke_city_2.html
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/s..._reserves_united_under18s_4_stoke_city_2.html
Dong The Forgotten Man
Dong holds onto Red dream
Daniel Polden
DONG Fangzhou is Manchester United's forgotten man.
At the age of 18, Dong became the first ever Chinese player to sign for United, completing a move from Champions Dalian Shide for an initial fee of £500,000, and declaring: "It will be a dream to join United."
However, this dream quickly turned into a nightmare for the Under-20 International as the harsh reality of his new future became clear.
While United's other youngsters were travelling to Turkey to play in the Champions League this week, Fangzhou was cutting a lone figure in The Bosuil stadium in Flanders, Belgium. Like many Reds players before him, most notably John O'Shea, Fangzhou was sent on loan to United's feeder club Royal Antwerp in order to gain experience of first-team football in a European League.
Dong's loan-deal was long-term, with the hope that he would break into the Chinese national side and eventually earn enough caps to become eligible for a work-permit in England.
However, in his first season at the club, Antwerp were relegated from the Belgian top-flight, and things went from bad to worse for Dong.
Things have still not improved for him, even though Antwerp currently lie second as they chase a return to the Belgian First Division.
Dong is yet to complete 90 minutes for the club this season, starting only twice and failing so far to hit the target.
The prospect of Dong ever playing in a competitive game for the Reds is becoming increasingly unlikely.
He is the same age as Wayne Rooney, yet the two 19 year-olds are literally miles apart in terms of where they stand in the game.
Despite everything that has happened to him, Dong is refusing to give up, displaying a determination that would be appreciated by the United faithful: "It's difficult sometimes and when I first arrived I was lonely.
"But the thought of one day playing for Manchester United drives me on."
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/s...d/s/139/139973_dong_holds_onto_red_dream.html
Dong holds onto Red dream
Daniel Polden
DONG Fangzhou is Manchester United's forgotten man.
At the age of 18, Dong became the first ever Chinese player to sign for United, completing a move from Champions Dalian Shide for an initial fee of £500,000, and declaring: "It will be a dream to join United."
However, this dream quickly turned into a nightmare for the Under-20 International as the harsh reality of his new future became clear.
While United's other youngsters were travelling to Turkey to play in the Champions League this week, Fangzhou was cutting a lone figure in The Bosuil stadium in Flanders, Belgium. Like many Reds players before him, most notably John O'Shea, Fangzhou was sent on loan to United's feeder club Royal Antwerp in order to gain experience of first-team football in a European League.
Dong's loan-deal was long-term, with the hope that he would break into the Chinese national side and eventually earn enough caps to become eligible for a work-permit in England.
However, in his first season at the club, Antwerp were relegated from the Belgian top-flight, and things went from bad to worse for Dong.
Things have still not improved for him, even though Antwerp currently lie second as they chase a return to the Belgian First Division.
Dong is yet to complete 90 minutes for the club this season, starting only twice and failing so far to hit the target.
The prospect of Dong ever playing in a competitive game for the Reds is becoming increasingly unlikely.
He is the same age as Wayne Rooney, yet the two 19 year-olds are literally miles apart in terms of where they stand in the game.
Despite everything that has happened to him, Dong is refusing to give up, displaying a determination that would be appreciated by the United faithful: "It's difficult sometimes and when I first arrived I was lonely.
"But the thought of one day playing for Manchester United drives me on."
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/s...d/s/139/139973_dong_holds_onto_red_dream.html
Reserves: United under-18s 4 Stoke City 2
UNITED'S under-18s Academy side recovered from an early setback to record an impressive 4-2 win over Stoke City at Lyme Valley Stadium, Newcastle, yesterday.
Defender Danny Hughes gave the Potters a fifth minute lead but the Reds fought back well and were leading by the break.
Phil Marsh grabbed the equaliser in the 36th minute after fine work by Jamie Mullan, but then Stoke missed the chance to regain the lead when Reds' keeper Tom Heaton saved Norbert Zsivoczki's penalty.
Finnish youngster Jami Puustinen put United in front on the stroke of half-time.
Marsh extended United's lead with a spot-kick in the 68th minute and Puustinen claimed his second goal of the game with fine header from Danny Simpson's right-wing cross.
The junior players of United and Stoke City face each other again on Thursday in the FA Youth Cup third round at Ewen Fields, Hyde (7pm).
The reserves are also in cup action on Tuesday when they take on Oldham Athletic in the Manchester Senior Cup at Moss Lane, Altrincham (7pm).
UNITED'S under-18s Academy side recovered from an early setback to record an impressive 4-2 win over Stoke City at Lyme Valley Stadium, Newcastle, yesterday.
Defender Danny Hughes gave the Potters a fifth minute lead but the Reds fought back well and were leading by the break.
Phil Marsh grabbed the equaliser in the 36th minute after fine work by Jamie Mullan, but then Stoke missed the chance to regain the lead when Reds' keeper Tom Heaton saved Norbert Zsivoczki's penalty.
Finnish youngster Jami Puustinen put United in front on the stroke of half-time.
Marsh extended United's lead with a spot-kick in the 68th minute and Puustinen claimed his second goal of the game with fine header from Danny Simpson's right-wing cross.
The junior players of United and Stoke City face each other again on Thursday in the FA Youth Cup third round at Ewen Fields, Hyde (7pm).
The reserves are also in cup action on Tuesday when they take on Oldham Athletic in the Manchester Senior Cup at Moss Lane, Altrincham (7pm).
For those interested in United players family
Tierney loaned to Carlisle
OLDHAM'S teenage defender Marc Tierney has joined Carlisle on loan.
The 19-year-old left back - brother of Manchester United's Paul - will stay with the Conference high-fliers for a month.
Boss Brian Talbot explained: "It would have been unfair not to let him go and I need to find out more about the lad. We will have him monitored and it might give me more confidence when he comes back. He has got better in training and has been working his socks off."
Tierney loaned to Carlisle
OLDHAM'S teenage defender Marc Tierney has joined Carlisle on loan.
The 19-year-old left back - brother of Manchester United's Paul - will stay with the Conference high-fliers for a month.
Boss Brian Talbot explained: "It would have been unfair not to let him go and I need to find out more about the lad. We will have him monitored and it might give me more confidence when he comes back. He has got better in training and has been working his socks off."
Arthur Gomez is on song!
Gambian striker Arthur Gomez, one of the Antwerp three, scored two more goals on Saturday in a 4-0 victory that put United's feeder club back on top of the Belgian second division. Gomez replaced Fangzhou Dong and scored the second and third goals. This makes three goals for Gomez in his last 46 minutes of playing time - he got the winner against ex-league leaders Waregem two weeks ago and was promptly suspended. Remarkably, Dong's six goals and Gomez's three have all being scored after the players have left the bench.
Table
Antwerp 17 11 4 2 29 15 35
Waregem 17 10 3 4 35 20 34
Renaix 17 9 4 4 21 16 31
Geel 17 9 6 2 30 21 29
Roulers 17 8 5 4 22 15 28
Gambian striker Arthur Gomez, one of the Antwerp three, scored two more goals on Saturday in a 4-0 victory that put United's feeder club back on top of the Belgian second division. Gomez replaced Fangzhou Dong and scored the second and third goals. This makes three goals for Gomez in his last 46 minutes of playing time - he got the winner against ex-league leaders Waregem two weeks ago and was promptly suspended. Remarkably, Dong's six goals and Gomez's three have all being scored after the players have left the bench.
Table
Antwerp 17 11 4 2 29 15 35
Waregem 17 10 3 4 35 20 34
Renaix 17 9 4 4 21 16 31
Geel 17 9 6 2 30 21 29
Roulers 17 8 5 4 22 15 28
Pontins cup
Taken from Oldhams official homepage:
: MANCHESTER UNITED 5 - 1 LATICS
Scott Vernon - on target for Latics
Latics took on a strong Mancheter United reserve outfit on Tuesday night, in the Round Robin stage of the Manchester Senior Cup at Altrincham.
Latics started brightly and took the lead with half an hour played. Chris Taylor forced good save from the Red Devils 'keeper Tom Heaton. From the resulting corner a Paul Booth shot was charged down only for Scott Vernon to ram home.
Latics' lead was short lived however as, 8 minutes later, John Spector ran from the half way line with the Latics defence backing off. The American made no mistake, firing past Steve Mildenhall from 18 yards.
United took a grip on the game early in the 2nd half when, with only 47 minutes on clock, Mads Timm slotted home after a scramble in the 6-yard box.
5 minutes later United went 3-1 up when Sylvan Ebanks-Blake side footed home from a left wing cross.
Latics defence was severely weakened when Mark Arber limped off with a hamstring injury after 57 minutes.
Disappointingly on 64 minutes, Kieran Richardson got United's 4th goal. Five minutes later John Eyre, making his first appearance after recovering from hamstring injury, was substituted by Chris Hall.
United got a 5th after 83 minutes when Ebanks-Blake smashed home from close range.
Chris Taylor clipped the United bar in injury time and then Booth headed over from a corner but by then the game was out of Latics' reach.
Latics had impressively beat United in a League clash just the week before. However the Old Trafford boys proved too much for their Lancashire neighbours and recorded a comprehensive 5-1 win.
The second string will now look to regain some form in the League as the face Bury at Boundary Park, on Wednesday January 19th 2005.
Keep checking the site for more reserves news.
Taken from Oldhams official homepage:
: MANCHESTER UNITED 5 - 1 LATICS
Scott Vernon - on target for Latics
Latics took on a strong Mancheter United reserve outfit on Tuesday night, in the Round Robin stage of the Manchester Senior Cup at Altrincham.
Latics started brightly and took the lead with half an hour played. Chris Taylor forced good save from the Red Devils 'keeper Tom Heaton. From the resulting corner a Paul Booth shot was charged down only for Scott Vernon to ram home.
Latics' lead was short lived however as, 8 minutes later, John Spector ran from the half way line with the Latics defence backing off. The American made no mistake, firing past Steve Mildenhall from 18 yards.
United took a grip on the game early in the 2nd half when, with only 47 minutes on clock, Mads Timm slotted home after a scramble in the 6-yard box.
5 minutes later United went 3-1 up when Sylvan Ebanks-Blake side footed home from a left wing cross.
Latics defence was severely weakened when Mark Arber limped off with a hamstring injury after 57 minutes.
Disappointingly on 64 minutes, Kieran Richardson got United's 4th goal. Five minutes later John Eyre, making his first appearance after recovering from hamstring injury, was substituted by Chris Hall.
United got a 5th after 83 minutes when Ebanks-Blake smashed home from close range.
Chris Taylor clipped the United bar in injury time and then Booth headed over from a corner but by then the game was out of Latics' reach.
Latics had impressively beat United in a League clash just the week before. However the Old Trafford boys proved too much for their Lancashire neighbours and recorded a comprehensive 5-1 win.
The second string will now look to regain some form in the League as the face Bury at Boundary Park, on Wednesday January 19th 2005.
Keep checking the site for more reserves news.
Rampant Reds See Off Latics In Senior Cup
Manchester Senior Cup
Manchester United 5
Oldham Athletic 1
Ricky Sbragia's side survived a first-half scare to run out comfortable winners against Oldham Athletic.
When Scott Vernon fired the visitors into the lead after half an hour, a repeat of last week's Pontin's League win over the Reds looked on the cards for the Latics.
But with Sbragia's side reinforced by the return of several first-team fringe players, parity was restored by Jonathon Spector before half-time and from there the Reds never looked back.
Mads Timm put the hosts in front two minutes after the interval, and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake extended the lead six minutes later.
Good work down the right from Chris Eagles allowed Kieran Richardson to end the game as a contest, before Blake grabbed his second seven minutes from time.
Manchester United: Heaton, Picken, Tierney, Spector, McShane, Neumayr, Eagles, D Jones, Ebanks-Blake, Timm, Richardson. Substitutes: Howard, Poole, Hogg, Collett, Calliste.
Oldham Athletic: Mildenhall, Jacobs, Arber, Lever, Booth, Eyre, Boshell, Bonner, Vernon, Wolfenden, C Taylor. Subsitutes: Hall, Tracey, Winn, Barlow, Taylor.
Manchester Senior Cup
Manchester United 5
Oldham Athletic 1
Ricky Sbragia's side survived a first-half scare to run out comfortable winners against Oldham Athletic.
When Scott Vernon fired the visitors into the lead after half an hour, a repeat of last week's Pontin's League win over the Reds looked on the cards for the Latics.
But with Sbragia's side reinforced by the return of several first-team fringe players, parity was restored by Jonathon Spector before half-time and from there the Reds never looked back.
Mads Timm put the hosts in front two minutes after the interval, and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake extended the lead six minutes later.
Good work down the right from Chris Eagles allowed Kieran Richardson to end the game as a contest, before Blake grabbed his second seven minutes from time.
Manchester United: Heaton, Picken, Tierney, Spector, McShane, Neumayr, Eagles, D Jones, Ebanks-Blake, Timm, Richardson. Substitutes: Howard, Poole, Hogg, Collett, Calliste.
Oldham Athletic: Mildenhall, Jacobs, Arber, Lever, Booth, Eyre, Boshell, Bonner, Vernon, Wolfenden, C Taylor. Subsitutes: Hall, Tracey, Winn, Barlow, Taylor.
source man.utd.com
Reds Suffer Youth Cup Defeat To Stoke
FA Youth Cup Third Round
Manchester United 0
Stoke City 1
At Hyde FC's Ewen Fields Stadium
United's Under18's were undone by a series of missed chances and a sheer determination from Stoke City, as the Reds' FA Youth Cup campaign ended at the third round stage on Thursday night.
Stoke's gritty resolve to beat one of the tournament's big names won through as the Reds, watched by manager Sir Alex Ferguson, went down, and out of the Youth Cup, 1-0 at Hyde's Ewen Fields Stadium.
There were high hopes of this year's crop; a group including Giuseppe Rossi and Gerard Pique - both of whom have made first-team appearances this season - and the likes of midfielders Lee Martin and Darron Gibson. But, unfortunately, it wasn't to be.
Francisco Filho's side created a host of chances but, having gone 1-0 down after 20 minutes, the Reds were unable to break down a well-organised Stoke City outfit.
The early goal was United's undoing. Content to then battle, contest every ball and defend their lead at all costs, Stoke resisted all that this Reds side had to offer - with a little fortune as well.
Reds forward Jami Puustinen could have got United off to a fantastic start after just four minutes, but put his shot over the bar. Giuseppe Rossi, meanwhile, closely monitored by a regimented Stoke defence, put a header over the crossbar after ten minutes.
Puustinen again went close in the second half as United piled on the pressure and Stoke became stubbornly entrenched in their own half. The young forward, played in one-on-one with the keeper following a delightful ball from Rossi, dipped a shoulder to fool the keeper but saw his shot frustratingly palmed away for a corner.
Puustinen, having had another shot cleared of the line just minutes earlier, thought he had equalised for United on 72 minutes. Midfielder Phil Marsh fired in a precision cross for Puustinen to head into the top corner, only to glance across and see the linesman's flag raised for offside.
The sense that it wasn't meant to be United's night arrived with just seven minutes remaining. Jamie Mullan, who made two goals in the 4-2 Academy league win over Stoke at the weekend, made a penetrating run down the left flank and pulled back a cross for the much-lauded Rossi. Unfortunately for the talented summer signing from Parma, his shot was straight at the goalkeeper.
It was a disappointing evening for United, but credit most go to Stoke who, having gone 1-0 up, were tactically well-organised; a corner for the Potters in the dying stages saw not one Stoke player in United's penalty area, so eager were the team to claim United's scalp in the prestigious youth tournament.
The Reds can take solace in an energetic performance from midfielder Lee Martin, and the promising passing skills of Darron Gibson in the centre of the park, even if this season's campaign ended much earlier than expected.
Report by Ben Hibbs, at Ewen Fields.
Reds Suffer Youth Cup Defeat To Stoke
FA Youth Cup Third Round
Manchester United 0
Stoke City 1
At Hyde FC's Ewen Fields Stadium
United's Under18's were undone by a series of missed chances and a sheer determination from Stoke City, as the Reds' FA Youth Cup campaign ended at the third round stage on Thursday night.
Stoke's gritty resolve to beat one of the tournament's big names won through as the Reds, watched by manager Sir Alex Ferguson, went down, and out of the Youth Cup, 1-0 at Hyde's Ewen Fields Stadium.
There were high hopes of this year's crop; a group including Giuseppe Rossi and Gerard Pique - both of whom have made first-team appearances this season - and the likes of midfielders Lee Martin and Darron Gibson. But, unfortunately, it wasn't to be.
Francisco Filho's side created a host of chances but, having gone 1-0 down after 20 minutes, the Reds were unable to break down a well-organised Stoke City outfit.
The early goal was United's undoing. Content to then battle, contest every ball and defend their lead at all costs, Stoke resisted all that this Reds side had to offer - with a little fortune as well.
Reds forward Jami Puustinen could have got United off to a fantastic start after just four minutes, but put his shot over the bar. Giuseppe Rossi, meanwhile, closely monitored by a regimented Stoke defence, put a header over the crossbar after ten minutes.
Puustinen again went close in the second half as United piled on the pressure and Stoke became stubbornly entrenched in their own half. The young forward, played in one-on-one with the keeper following a delightful ball from Rossi, dipped a shoulder to fool the keeper but saw his shot frustratingly palmed away for a corner.
Puustinen, having had another shot cleared of the line just minutes earlier, thought he had equalised for United on 72 minutes. Midfielder Phil Marsh fired in a precision cross for Puustinen to head into the top corner, only to glance across and see the linesman's flag raised for offside.
The sense that it wasn't meant to be United's night arrived with just seven minutes remaining. Jamie Mullan, who made two goals in the 4-2 Academy league win over Stoke at the weekend, made a penetrating run down the left flank and pulled back a cross for the much-lauded Rossi. Unfortunately for the talented summer signing from Parma, his shot was straight at the goalkeeper.
It was a disappointing evening for United, but credit most go to Stoke who, having gone 1-0 up, were tactically well-organised; a corner for the Potters in the dying stages saw not one Stoke player in United's penalty area, so eager were the team to claim United's scalp in the prestigious youth tournament.
The Reds can take solace in an energetic performance from midfielder Lee Martin, and the promising passing skills of Darron Gibson in the centre of the park, even if this season's campaign ended much earlier than expected.
Report by Ben Hibbs, at Ewen Fields.
I thought we were unlucky against Stoke. Pique's injury looked a nasty one. Anyone heard how long he'll be out for? I thought he might well have played some part for the 1st team against Exeter or Chelsea......
Paul Tierney has signed for Bradford City on loan until the end of the season. Tierney is a 22yo left back.
Excellent read that. Interesting that a few news names are mentioned, like Gibson.