Arsenal U18: Gnabry’s Stunner Sinks Newcastle

Arsenal youth team secured three points with the help of Gnabry’s stunning strike nine minutes from the stoppage time.

He was the goalscoring hero against Fulham in the FA Youth Cup just four days previously, but on Saturday Austin Lipman had the unusual experience of going in goal following an injury to Josh Vickers during the 1-0 victory over Newcastle United in the U18 League.

The goal has a touch of Robert Pires in it. After some neatly exchanged passes, Gnabry took a steady touch before firing his shot to the top corner. Alex Iwobi should also be given some credit as he was involved in the build-up play that led to the goal.

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Despite the fact that Anthony Jeffrey was missing through injury and Chuba Akpom and Kristoffer Olsson were rested, this was still a strong Arsenal line-up, containing the likes of Gnabry, Hector Bellerin, Hayden and Zach Fagan. Substitute Jordan Brown, making his first appearance at this level since the turn of the year, was a lively presence following his introduction, striking the crossbar with an acrobatic effort having previously come close to doubling his side’s advantage with an effort from distance.

Arsenal also gave playing time to Renny Smith, who is on a trial from Chelsea came on right-back in the second-half, although the youngster didn’t provide the best showcase of his ability. It is expected that several further players will trial with the club at this level in the near future in order to boost the number of players signed on scholarship deals next summer.

Arsenal’s victory was largely deserved, although the tempo of their passing did drop considerably in the second half, and they were fortunate not to be punished when Isaac Hayden dwelled on the ball for too long.