U18s: WBA 3 United 0

However, unfortunately for the Reds, moments earlier West Brom midfielder Sam Mantom's stinging long-range effort had caused United keeper Johnstone into an unforced error. The ball slipping through the England youth internationals fingers to complete a frustrating afternoon for the Reds.

The defeat caps a disappointing run for Paul McGuinness' young charges. United came back after Christmas and beat Burnley 5-1 in the FA Youth Cup fourth round, then defeated Stoke 3-2. But losses to Blackburn (3-0) in the Youth Cup fifth round, and a league reverse against Liverpool (1-0) preceded Saturday's defeat to West Brom.

United: Johnstone; Brown, Wootton, McGinty, Fryers; Ajose, Tunnicliffe (W.Keane 30), Pogba (Fornasier 70), Morrison (Lingard 30); Cofie, King.
Sub not used: Massacci