JJ Gabriel shines as Man United's U18s beat Stoke City
Substitute JJ Gabriel starred as Manchester United U18s beat Stoke City 4-0 in the U18 Premier League North at Carrington Training Centre on Friday evening.
Ryan Liu could have scored the opening goal for Stoke in the first minute, but goalkeeper Cameron Byrne-Hughes did well to deny him.
United’s first chance fell to striker Victor Musa, whose effort was saved by goalkeeper Ben Chivers. The home side took the lead in the 15th minute, with James Overy orchestrating the attack.
The right-back exchanged passes with Amir Ibragimov, made a solo run, and picked out Musa, who scored with a one-time finish.
Four minutes before the hour mark, Musa doubled United’s advantage from the penalty spot, sending Chivers the wrong way after Dante Plunkett was brought down.
Gabriel came on after the hour mark, replacing Ibragimov. Jayce Fitzgerald also came on for Jim Thwaites.
Man United scored their third goal in the 83rd minute, thanks to the brilliant Gabriel.
The winger received the ball, cut onto his right foot and fired a powerful shot from outside the area. The ball came off the crossbar and deflected off a Stoke player into the net.
Deep into the final minutes of the game, Gabriel eventually registered his name on the scoresheet, curling the ball home with a low shot from inside the area.
The 14-year-old forward has now registered three goals in the league this season, having scored a brace on his debut against Leeds United last month.
Man United host Sunderland in their final fixture of the season next Saturday at Carrington Training Centre.
Adam Lawrence’s side are set to finish in second position. They trail league leaders Manchester City by four points heading into the final game of the season.
Article written by Henry Thornton .