Our young Gunners secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Newcastle United in the Premier League 2 on Friday, showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess. The match at Mangata Developments Stadium was a tense affair, with the team's determination paying off in the dying moments of the game.
The opening 45 minutes saw a lively display of attacking football. Theo Julienne's early foul on the edge of the box set up a free-kick opportunity for Demiane Agustien, whose shot narrowly missed the target. The highlight of the first half was a seamless team move, with Marli Salmon's pinpoint cross-field pass finding Marcell Washington's impeccable touch. Washington's control set up Brando Bailey-Joseph for a powerful volley, but Aidan Harris was equal to the task, parrying the shot behind.
Evan Mooney, a January signing, made an impact with a solo run in the first half, beating two defenders before unleashing a shot from 18 yards. Although it didn't trouble the goalkeeper, it showcased Mooney's skill and determination.
The second half saw a moment of drama as Michael Mills, a substitute, struck the post with a powerful shot. The Magpies' pressure continued, but our defense held firm. The turning point came late in the game when Matheos Ferreira was sent off for a late challenge on Callan Hamill, reducing our team to ten players.
With the contest seemingly heading for a goalless draw, the young Gunners' resilience shone through. Andre Harriman-Annous was brought down inside the box in injury time, and he stepped up to take the penalty. Despite his initial attempt being saved, Harriman-Annous showed composure, heading home the rebound to secure the victory.
Looking ahead, our under-21s will face Reading in the Premier League 2 on Monday, February 23. The match at Mangata Developments Stadium promises to be another challenging encounter, and the team will look to build on this impressive victory.
TEAM NEWS: Arsenal XI - Setford, Hamill (Ogunnaike 83), Washington, Salmon (Dixon 45), Clarke, Ibrahim (Ferdinand 56), Bailey-Joseph (Zecevic John 61), Julienne, Mooney, Agustien, Harriman-Annous. Subs unused: Porter.
Newcastle XI - Harris, Miley, Watts, Pivas, Thompson, Finneran, Fitzgerald (Palmer 73), Bailey, Ferreira, Munda (Yildiz 87), Seung-Soo (Mills 45). Subs unused: Taylor, Moran. Copyright 2026 The Arsenal Football Club Limited. All rights reserved.
