Derby County’s Under-18s extend their unbeaten start to 2023 to four matches as they drew 1-1 with Manchester United in the Under-18 Premier League - North on Saturday.


Dajaune Brown’s first half strike was cancelled out by an equaliser from United’s Victor Musa late on in an enthralling match at Moor Farm Training Centre.

There were little to no chances early on in the first half. The first came from the visitors as a dangerous corner was cleared off the line by Brown.

Derby grew into the game after around 20 minutes played. The majority of play came down the left flank through Riley Moloney. His dangerous crosses were dealt with well by the United defence.

Cameron Ashia had a low strike saved well by United goalkeeper Harrison, following some resilient midfield play from the young Rams.

A lengthy and threatening attacking spell from Derby finally resulted in a goal with 24 minutes played. Fantastic high pressing forced a mistake from the Manchester United defence. Brown made the most of the gift, and smartly slotted away the opener.

Shortly after, United were forced into an early change. Goalkeeper Elyh Harrison made way for Will Murdock following an injury.

The attacks didn’t stop from the young Rams. On the half hour mark, Brown came very close to netting his and Derby’s second. He made a dangerous run to the near post and narrowly missed the target from a tight angle.

Moloney’s hard work was almost rewarded with a goal, he charged forward at the United defence, but his near post effort was denied by a smart stop.

Sam Segagabo came close to firing in a second. Some excellent football resulted in the forward striking at goal, but his effort narrowly missed the target.

The young Rams started the second half the same as they ended the first. Positive football and high pressing resulted in chances for a second, but none taken.

Carlos Richards started the second half very well, a tricky run forward opened space for a shot 15 yards from goal, but United’s substitute goalkeeper Murdock made a smart stop.

The visitors had the better of the chances towards the end of the game, and with just over ten to play, they had their equaliser. Forward Musa tapped into an empty net after a dangerous break.

The young Rams kept fighting for a second, but it ended in a third consecutive draw in the Under 18s Premier League - North.

Derby County Under-18s travel to Liverpool on Saturday 11th February to attempt to get back to winning ways (12pm kick-off).

Derby County Under-18s: Shattell (GK), Moore, Moloney, Fapetu, Osayande, Hawkins (C), Perry (Osong 70), Ashia, Brown, Richards, Sebagabo.

Substitutes Not Used: Simons, Price, Eames, Agustien.