Newcastle United youngsters end unwanted 13-game record following late drama & penalty heroics

The match at the University of Bradford Stadium ended 2-2 after 90 minutes after a stoppage time equaliser from substitute Josh Donaldson. Ben Parkinson’s opener for the Young Magpies was cancelled out by Olly Sanderson in the first half before Andy Cook put the hosts in front.

Newcastle went on to win the penalty shootout 4-3 on penalties with 17-year-old goalkeeper Aidan Harris saving spot-kicks from Alex Pattison and Cook. Parkinson, Jay Turner-Cooke, James Huntley and Donaldson converted from the spot while Ellis Stanton was denied.

Harris was Newcastle’s hero against The Bantams to mark a remarkable 12 months for the teenager. He was called up as part of Newcastle’s squad for their Champions League return against AC Milan last September where he was named on the bench for the 0-0 draw at the San Siro.

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Harris also featured in Newcastle’s post-season trip to Australia where he made his first-team debut in the 8-0 friendly defeat to the A-League All-Stars. He went on to sign his first professional contract at the club over the summer.

The shootout win saw Newcastle Under-21s break a long winless streak in the competition that stretched back to 2018. It ends a run of 13 games without a win in the competition as Jack Ross’ side picked up two points for the shootout victory.

Newcastle haven’t won a game inside 90 minutes in the EFL Trophy since beating Grimsby Town 3-2 at Blundell Park almost six years ago. Matty Longstaff, Elias Sorensen and Callum Roberts were among the scorers that evening.

Bradford are the only League Two side in Newcastle’s group this season with the side now facing trips to League One Rotherham United before ending the group stage against Mansfield Town.

Newcastle were without some key players on Tuesday evening with the likes of Alex Murphy, Trevan Sanusi, Leo Shahar and Travis Hernes all away on international duty at youth level.

Newcastle United Under-21s: Aidan Harris, Ciaran Thompson, Cathal Heffernan (c), Charlie McArthur, Dylan Charlton, Ellis Stanton, Anthony Munda (James Huntley 75), Jay Turner-Cooke, Alfie Harrison (Josh Donaldson 60), Johnny Emerson (Guy Bloomer 88), Ben Parkinson.

Subs not used: Adam Harrison, Scott Bailey, Harry Powell, Rory Powell.