[funkdoctorspock]

United was able to secure a close 1-0 win over the Toffee reserves. Glad to see Pique get some playing time. Curious as to why Saha didn't get any mins as it was rumoured he would use this game as a tuneup.

United res 1 Everton res 0

SUBSTITUTE Febian Brandy’s 83rd-minute goal was enough to give United Reserves a winning start to their league programme at Victoria Stadium, Northwich.

The Reds’ diminutive striker reacted rapidly to plant the ball in the net after Everton keeper John Ruddy had blocked Sean Evans’ angled drive. Nevertheless, there was still plenty to admire from the two sides who displayed some splendid fare for the sizeable crowd.

Sean Evans, Fraizer Campbell and Dong all went close for United in the first half while Everton’s Kieran Agard had a goal disallowed for offside early on and Steven Morrison went near with a cracking free-kick.

There was no show from Louis Saha after rumours had circulated that the French international striker, who is returning from injury, would be putting in an appearance.

UNITED: Heaton, Lee, A Eckersley, Chester, Pique (R Eckersley 67), Hewson, S Evans, Gibson, Dong (Brandy 67), Campbell (Barnes 76), Martin.

Subs not used: Zieler.
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