It was something of an appropriate opener to the season between City, last season’s champions, and United who finished the Under-18 Premier Division North in second spot, just a single point behind the Blues. However, it was a very youthful line-up fielded by new coach Travis Binnion, containing six Under-16s.
If their pre-kick-off routines – a huddle and collective roar – were to be of any guide then both teams were fired up and primed for this season’s opener.
United were in our new red-and-white kit whilst City were wearing all sky blue.
The colour of the hosts’ shirts contrasted sharply with the leaden skies above the Etihad Campus as the game got under way.