Sir Alex Ferguson’s fledglings faltered as Manchester United were beaten 2-1 at Old Trafford by Chelsea in the first leg of their semi final in the FA Youth Cup.
In fact the Reds were lucky to still be in with a shout as Chelsea, with better finishing, could have been out of sight with a place in the final already secured.
Chelsea created a number of chances in the opening half, but only had a slender 1-0 advantage to show for their efforts.
That was a 14th minute goal from Amin Affane, a shot low to the left of keeper Jonathan Sutherland.
United did come close, however, as a 30-yard free kick from Gyliano van Velsen hit the upright.
James Wilson equalised for United somewhat against the run of play midway through the second half after punishing poor defensive play from the visitors.
Chelsea won the game through a terrific goal fromIslam Feruz who won the ball in midfield and advanced forward firing home a drive from 25 yards low to the right of Sutherland.
The visitors would have won by a wider margin but for a fine save from Sutherland to deny Alex Kiwomya.