David Allasan was on target during the second half as the Iron's Under-18 side experienced a game of two halves against their Sheffield Wednesday counterparts.
The Category 2 academy Owls provided a tough challenge for United (Category 3) at West Street, Winterton on Friday morning as they continued to gear up for the new league season in their latest pre-season test.
Two of the visiting side's goals came from 25 yards, while Allasan's goal came following a well-worked set-piece, which the frontman finished well.
The Iron were three goals down at half-time, and Dawson said Wednesday the 'stronger, more dominant' team in the opening period.
"We got the players in at half-time and sorted out the problems, and I felt in the second-half we started very well and were on the front foot. We created a few chances. Again, we weren't as clinical as we'd like to be. We got a consolation goal later on in the game," Dawson added.
"It's a learning curve for the lads, in that when things aren't going well in the game they need to stay focused, organised and in the game until you can change that momentum. We have to learn from it, keep working hard and focus on the next match."