Taking a leaf out of the first team’s book, United’s reserves ground out a 3-0 win against a competent and evenly matched Plymouth side. The first goal even mirrored Saturday with ROS Dexter Blackstock nipping between a defender and the ‘keeper for a touch on a long ball from defence.

After half-time Dexter doubled the lead, adjusting well after the ‘keeper got a touch to a great cross from Josias Carbon on the right. With 10 minutes to go another impressive youngster, Tom Winters, played a great ball through for Manny Omoyinmi to round the ‘keeper and finish well.

Plymouth threatened all game, shooting wide on a

number of occasions and they also hit the bar. Dave Waterman didn’t do too well on his return from injury and was lucky not to be penalised for at least one of three penalty claims against him, but he was supported well by Rob Lovegrove and Adam Garner. Third year scholar Steve Cant, released by Millwall, did well at left wing back with an eye to bolstering the youth squad.

Jamie Brooks lasted 65 minutes and was full of running throughout, adding a few nice touches as well. ROS Chris Hackett came off at half-time, maybe with a mind to Saturday.

With only a few days left before the Premier transfer window closes, regular visitor Malcolm Elias, now at Southampton, was among a number of scouts present.