By Chris O'Brien
January 13 2004

In a game that was a cracking advert for Youth football, the Red Devils progressed to the next round of the Cup with a 2-0 win over arch-rivals Manchester City. Roman Calliste and Craig Flanagan got the goals for United. Lee Martin put in a blinding performance and potentially looks a great player.

Manchester United’s youth team are through to the fifth round of the F.A Youth Cup following a 2-0 victory over bitter rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford.

 

Roman Calliste put the hosts ahead in the first-half, with Craig Flanagan doubling the advantage for United in the second-half. It was a pleasing performance from the youngsters, in a game where manager Brian McClair announced the result was everything.

 

New signing Lee Martin played a blinder, and it would seem United did good business in purchasing him from Wimbledon for £200,000, who are currently struggling financially. This fee may rise to £1,000,000 depending on Martin’s success as a Red Devils, and judging by his display this evening the fee will rise! It will be exciting watching Martin progress through the ranks, and hopefully if he is not rushed through progression, he will become an excellent player.

 

This match was a cracking advert for Youth football, with both sides boosted by the clear passion from the crowd, after all this was a derby! United have beaten one of the teams fancied to win this competition, and will now advance to the next round with every confidence that they can emulate the success of last year and win the F.A Youth Cup.

 

Full Time – Manchester United Youth 2-0 Manchester City Youth