The Reds were narrowly beaten by a Sheffield United U21s team containing no less than 8 players who had played first team football in the Championship or above recently, including a few of their recent summer acquisitions.

Manager Craige Richardson rotated his team to give players valuable minutes, including a debut for Millie Fugler, who had just recently signed.

The hosts (technically visitors, but hosted the game) had a lot of the ball across the game but the Reds battled throughout. Some brilliant defending and battle restricted the hosts to half chances and long range efforts. One lapse in concentration saw a ball over the top which was finished well by the Sheffield United striker.

The only major issue first half being the Sheffield United defender with a late challenge on Amber Sewell which went unpunished by the referee. It has been reported that our supporters were less than pleased, but it may have also been the smirk after the challenge that caused the issue.

In a game with very few chances, there were certainly some bright parts for the Reds and they nearly fashioned an equaliser at the end.

Ultimately a defeat against a very good side and showed our battling side.

POTM- Summer Reece, who was outstanding throughout, nullifying the Sheffield United winger.

Unit's thoughts- To play like this against a team with so many first teamers was amazing. Not in the spirit of the competition, but we concentrate on the league and go again. Also- I am a fan of tough tackling, but I am not a fan of being happy to hurt someone.