United's U18s were unfortunate not to leave Benton with all three points after a hotly disputed equaliser rescued Newcastle a point, despite a competent all-round performance by the Blades.

After forcing the issue in the first-half, Jordan Chappell netted his third goal of the season early in the second period, following a good run by the industrious Slew. Airey scored for the hosts shortly after, despite appearing to be well offside.

The Blades were positive from the off, with Lammy, Gregory and Slew all coming close, as the visitors forced four corners in the opening exchanges.

Matty Darlow came closest to sending United into the break in front, but his header was excellently tipped over.

Newcastle were restricted to a couple of long-range efforts as the Blades defence looked strong throughout the first-half.

The second period began in a similar manner to the first, with Slew and Gregory again prominent in some good passing football.

In the 52nd minute the Blades got the goal their performance had warranted. Slew started the move, before freeing the hard-working CHAPPELL who finished well on the run.

Wilkinson and Murray were dictating proceedings in midfield with the former heading just over on the hour mark.

Three minutes later the hosts levelled in somewhat bizarre circumstances. AIREY appeared well offside and as United stopped and waited for a whistle the Newcastle man coolly slotted the ball past Billard.

The Blades responded immediately but couldn't find a winner, despite the hosts having Spear red-carded following a confrontation with Brown.

Coach Kevin Fogg was full of praise for his young side and is encouraged by the current five-game unbeaten run:

"It was a confident all-round team performance, so really we are slightly disappointed not to win.

"We are very pleased with how things are progressing at the moment, though, and that is evident with our unbeaten run."

Blades: Billard, Brown, Roe, Wilkinson, Darlow, Kennedy, Lammy, Murray, Slew, Gregory, Chappell (Pennycooke-Morgan 78).
Unused: Andrew, James, Ahmadi, Maguire.