Newcastle United and Crystal Palace both booked their places in the knockout stages of the EFL Trophy with their under-21 sides, but Brighton & Hove Albion endured a night to forget. The EFL Trophy progress of the two Premier League academies was confirmed on Tuesday, while the Seagulls were eliminated in emphatic fashion.
Newcastle Edge Past Rotherham
At Rotherham United, Kyran Thompson scored the only goal of the game in the 34th minute to give Newcastle Under-21s a 1-0 win in Northern Group C. The result eliminates the Millers and ensures the Magpies will advance alongside group leaders Bradford City. Newcastle’s young side produced a disciplined performance to claim all three points at a League Two venue, with Thompson’s first-half strike proving decisive.
Palace Win at Newport
Crystal Palace Under-21s secured their own passage with a 2-1 victory at Newport County in Southern Group E. David Angibeaud netted the winner as the Eagles joined Plymouth Argyle in guaranteeing their progress from the group. The match was a tight affair, but Palace’s ability to find a second goal proved the difference against their League Two hosts.
Brighton Thrashed by Cambridge
There was no such joy for Brighton & Hove Albion Under-21s, who were beaten 6-0 at League One side Cambridge United in Southern Group G. The Seagulls’ cause was not helped when over-age player Ben Barclay was sent off for deliberate handball in the first half. Isaac Heath converted the resulting penalty, and Cambridge took full advantage of the numerical difference by adding five more goals in the following half-hour.
Callum Stead scored twice for the U’s, who made it three wins from three in the competition to clinch top spot in the group and end Brighton’s hopes of advancing. The heavy defeat leaves Brighton’s campaign in tatters, while Cambridge march on with a perfect record.
Doncaster Dump Out Rochdale and Liverpool
In Tuesday’s other game, Doncaster Rovers won 4-1 at Rochdale in Northern Group H. The result eliminates both Rochdale and Liverpool Under-21s, who can now finish no higher than third in the pool. Doncaster’s convincing away win adds further intrigue to the group, with progression to the knockout phase now confirmed for Nigel Clough’s side.
The EFL Trophy, officially known as the Jersey Mike’s Trophy for sponsorship reasons, continues to provide a platform for Premier League academy sides to test themselves against senior opposition from the lower leagues. Newcastle and Crystal Palace will be pleased to have navigated the group stage, while Brighton will reflect on a chastening evening at Cambridge.
