United's youngsters made a disappointing return to FA Premier Academy League action as they were beaten by an experienced and well-drilled Forest outfit at Shirecliffe.

Goalkeeper Sam Andrew took the place of Adam Billard, who has been ruled out for three months with glandular fever, but two goals inside the opening 15 minutes effectively ended the game as a contest.

Prior to the goals United had three half-chances with Slew, Brown and Chappell all coming close.

A change in formation saw the Blades come into the game after that, but Forest increased their lead early in the second-half after United had failed to clear the loose ball from a set-piece.

With the home side playing for pride, Murray became more influential and the hardworking Slew missed a golden chance to give the Blades a glimmer of hope.

After four consecutive corners, United were handed the chance to net a consolation on a plate. Slew freed the energetic Brown and after he was fouled in the penalty area, JAMES lashed home the resulting spot-kick.

Slew, showing great character and belief, hit the woodwork as the Blades finished strongly, but despite a determined second-half showing, Coach Kevin Fogg was disappointed with the manner of the goals conceded that ultimately cost them the game:

"We got better after switching to a straight 4-4-2 with two out and out wingers, but sloppy defending has again cost us.

"Saying that, Harry Maguire was magnificent, as was Connor Brown, who demonstrated good character, whilst on another day Jordan Slew could have had a hat-trick.

"Forest always give us a tough test and that is credit to them, because they play some good football under Nick Marshall."

Blades: Andrew, Brown (O'Kane 80), Pomares, James, Maguire, Darlow, Williams, Murray, Foster (Pennycooke-Morgan 68), Slew, Chappell (Gregory 55).
Unused: Long, Lammy.