United’s 14-year-old genius scores a brace as Fletcher’s U18s run riot over Middlesbrough

Darren Fletcher’s Manchester United u18s hosted Middlesbrough at Carrington on Saturday morning.

The fixture was their second of the league campaign after opening with a 0-1 win over Everton.

First half

United took the lead in the 23rd minute, Bendito Mantato cut in from the right wing to finish low past the keeper.

The visitors looked to pull one back but Amir Ibragimov was quick to cover and clear off the line.

14-year-old wonderkid dubbed “Kid Messi”, JJ Gabriel, doubled the lead five minutes before the break.

A long ball over the top set Samuel Lusale through into the box to shoot. His effort was blocked but Gabriel was on hand to finish the rebound.

Second half

Middlesbrough’s physicality caused some trouble but United’s talent shone through as the match went on. Middlesbrough put in some heavy challenges in frustration.

Just after the hour mark, Ibragimov made it 3-0 to United.

Lusale played the ball back to the Russian-born starlet at the edge of the box. He curled into the far top right corner, producing a goal of the season contender.

Gabriel then scored his second of the match.

Mantato cut inside from the right wing before laying it off to the young phenomenon. Gabriel quickly shifted onto his left foot and powerfully struck it into the top left corner.

Kai Rooney then rounded out the scoring in the 77th minute after a bit of fortune.

Mantato’s cross was initially deflected towards Rooney, who also had his shot deflected to loop it into the goal.

Ultimately United had too much quality on the day, running out 5-0 winners.

The young Red Devils now turn their attention to the Premier League Cup, where they will meet Brighton on Wednesday.

United: Byrne-Hughes, Overy (Watson 73), McCormack, Mills, Kukonki, Thwaites (Shah 80), Ibragimov (Brown 80), Mantato, Bailey, Lusale (Rooney 73), Gabriel

Unused subs: Heath

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