Manchester United’s under-21 side pulled off a thrilling comeback to beat Barnsley in the EFL Trophy.
An EFL Trophy clash between Barnsley and Manchester United’s under-21 side at a rainy Oakwell would not be many people’s idea of an exciting football match to watch.
And for sure, Barnsley fans will be cursing after seeing their side blow a two-goal lead. For the Manchester United fans who made the trip and could be heard throughout the second half, the decision to watch the game was a smart one.
United’s future stars bounced back from a dispiriting first half where they were the better side, and eradicated the mistakes in the second 45. A late comeback saw the team score three goals in six minutes at the end of the game to seal a remarkable turnaround.
Jacob Devaney’s family connection
There was a notable family connection between Manchester United and Barnsley on the night, involving youngster Jacob Devaney, a starter for the Red Devils in midfield.
Devaney’s dad Martin is the Barnsley assistant manager, who watched on as his son helped inflict another home defeat on the League One side.
Jacob Devaney was a key part of United’s under-18s title winning side last season, with the 17-year-old playing 22 of 24 matches, more than any other player.
His progress was praised after the game by Barnsley boss Darrell Clarke, who told The Chronicle: “It’s a proud moment for Martin. His son is doing fantastic at Man United. But trust me no one wanted to win more than him.”
Clarke expressed his disappointment at the loss, adding: “There were promising performances but we let ourselves down in the second half and certainly the last 15 minutes.
“I felt it coming. We were carrying one other two passengers. It has to be learning experience because football is ruthless.”
Devaney signed a professional contract in the summer, and he was pictured training with the first team late last season.
He played all 90 minutes in the victory, completing 93 per cent of his passes, and winning four duels.
Jack Fletcher impresses in front of his dad
There was another family connection at Oakwell on Tuesday night, with Jack Fletcher scoring a stunning brace to equalise and then win the game.
His dad Darren Fletcher was in the stands, part of United’s travelling party along with head of academy Nick Cox.
The former United midfielder has taken more of an active academy role since the Ineos restructure.
He saw son Jack Fletcher produce his best game for the United academy since joining the club from rivals City in 2023.
It was a standout performance from the substitute, who was part of United’s summer tour squad, showing why he is so highly rated.
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