Match report for Man Utd Under 21s v Arsenal at Old Trafford

But the Reds weren’t down for long, with captain Gore leading by example to carry the ball all the way from his own box to the final third, before releasing Mejia in behind the Arsenal defence. Mejia connected with Gore’s pass with a stretching volley back across goal, beating Gunners goalkeeper Hubert Graczyk to draw United level.

Just after the half-hour mark the visitors almost restored their lead when Mauro Bandeira was found by Lino Sousa’s low cross, but the Arsenal midfielder fired his effort over the bar from close range.

But as half-time approached, it was the Reds who were on top. Following a powerful run and blocked shot from Omari Forson, the ball fell to winger Williams, who flashed an effort narrowly wide of the Gunners’ goal.

Harrison was once more called into action at the end of the first half, saving well from Sagoe Jr after the winger was sent through on goal. The stop from the United goalkeeper ensured the sides went in level at the break.