By Chris O'Brien
July 22 2004

A young Manchester United 'XI' pulled off an impressive 4-0 victory over a spirited Stalybridge Celtic side. Goals from Howard, Poole, Calliste and Timm secured an easy pre-season friendly victory

A Manchester United 'XI' made up of reserve and youth team players put in an impressive performance to comfortably beat Conference North outfit Stalybridge Celtic 4-0. The emphatic scoreline was a little harsh on the hosts, but United ran riot with goals from Howard, Poole, Calliste and Timm securing an easy pre-season victory for the reserves.

United's youngsters were quick and energetic and started the game very brightly. After only 7 minutes the deadlock was broken with Howard latching onto corner to finish from close-range. Celtic struggled to compete as the Red Devils played some excellent early football, and ten minutes later the lead was doubled courtesy of a powerful low drive from David Poole which found its way under the Stalybridge 'keeper.

The United second-string dominated for the majority of the half and the game was over as a contest moments before the half-time interval. Ramon Calliste, who had been excellent throughout the opening period, smashed the ball through a crowded penalty area and past Celtic shot stopper Dootson to give the visitors a three goal cushion at the break.

As United took their foot of the pedal, Stalybridge Celtic came into the game more in the second-half but failed to break down a resolute defence. With 18 minutes to go substitute Mads Timm, who had been introduced during half-time, rubbed salt into the wounds of the home supporters with the fourth and final goal of the game. The Dane finished proceedings with the goal of the game - a long-range curling effort which found its way into the top corner of the net.

United's superior fitness was evident as they dominated possession in the closing stages. However, Stalybridge continued to play with spirit and managed to keep the score at a respectable level, although the non-league side had been well beaten by the Manchester United youngsters.

Full Time - Stalybridge Celtic 0-4 Manchester United 'XI'

Stalybridge Celtic: Dootson, Bowker, Whealing, Keeling, Pearce, Wharton, Sykes, Barker, O'Shaugnessy, Caldecott
Substitutes: Calcutt, Parr, Connell, German, Nelson, Wager, Connor

Manchester United: Heaton, Picken, Eckersley, Fox, Howard, Neumayr, Poole, Jones, Ebanks-Blake, Calliste, Collett
Substitutes: Heath, Lee, Cooper, Timm, McShane, Djordic