2016 Barclays Premier League 2: Friday U23 Results, Latest Rankings and Schedule

Manchester United held local rivals Manchester City to a 1-1 draw in the Premier League 2 U23 derby at the Etihad Stadium on Friday. Matty Willock scored a superb opener for the Reds, before substitute Brahim Diaz fired back with a stunning set-piece strike for City after the break. 

Earlier, Chelsea thumped London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge. The Blues came out on top 3-1 thanks to goals from Jay Dasilva, Isaac Christie-Davies and Fikayo Tomori. Spurs gained some consolation when Shayon Harrison stroked home a penalty deep into stoppage time.

It was a comfortable win despite a superb performance from Tottenham goalkeeper Tom Glover.

Meanwhile, Spurs’ north London rivals Arsenal outclassed Derby County in a 3-1 win away from home. A Chuba Akpom double added to an early Chris Willock finish.

Not even a Charles Vernam penalty could give Derby much pride after Arsenal dragged them all over the pitch with a quality, pass-and-move display.

Here are the results from Friday’s fixtures:

Here’s what the standings look like:

The Manchester Evening News’ Simon Bajkowski confirmed both teams for the Manchester derby:

Derby night at the Etihad. pic.twitter.com/plFQj1QBgM

— Simon Bajkowski (@spbajko) September 9, 2016

It was Rodney Kongolo who threatened early for the hosts. The 18-year-old midfielder twice went close after mix-ups in the United back four.

Unfortunately for City, Kongolo’s shooting radar was a little off. He blazed over when he really should have scored.

City would soon rue the miss when the young Red Devils took an early lead after Matt Willock finished smartly.

The goal was harsh on City, who had been bossing the ball. In particular, Kongolo and forward Paolo Fernandes were combining well to play quick, intuitive one- and two-touch football in the final third.

Despite their lead, United’s defence was looking overworked at the break. Axel Tuanzebe was trying to cover as best he could, but the away side needed to get to grips with the City …

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