Man United U21s draw with National League outfit in friendly honouring former academy player

Manchester United U21s played out a 1-1 draw with National League side Rochdale in a pre-season game at the Crown Oil Arena on Saturday.

The game was played to honour the memory of former United academy graduate and Rochdale legend Joe Thompson, who died in April.

United began the game strongly, dominating possession, but neither side could create goalscoring opportunities.

The hosts eventually created the game’s first clear-cut chance as Emmanuel Dieseruvwe forced goalkeeper Cameron Byrne-Hughes to make a good save with a header from a cross.

United’s first chance of note came in the 30th minute, when Byrne-Hughes’ pass was cleared towards James Scanlon, whose 30-yard attempt landed inches off target.

On 38 minutes, Dale thought they had taken the lead with Dieseruvwe tapping the ball home, but the goal was ruled out due to a foul on Byrne-Hughes.

The National League side made a bright start to the second half by creating two chances, which fell to Dieseruvwe, but he could not convert either.

United took the lead after the hour mark through Ethan Ennis, who received a pass from Scanlon before firing his shot onto the roof of the net.

Sam Mather nearly doubled the young Reds’ lead but was denied by goalkeeper Oliver Whatmuff. Shortly after, Scanlon also rifled his shot over the crossbar.

Dale levelled matters in the 73rd minute, as Adebayo-Rowling scored from the back post. Dieseruvwe scored afterwards, but his effort was ruled out for offside.

Substitute Levi Amantchi almost grabbed the winner for the hosts in the closing stages. He had an effort saved by Byrne-Hughes and had another crash off the underside of the crossbar.

The two teams will meet again in the National League Cup, which will feature a special trophy in honour of Thompson, as will all future meetings of the clubs.

Article written by Henry Thornton .