The Iron Under-18s played out a 1-1 draw with Mansfield Town on Tuesday afternoon in the EFL Youth Alliance League, with Tyrell Sellars-Fleming netting United’s only goal of the game.
It took Scunthorpe just 22 minutes to go ahead in Nottinghamshire, as Harry Elliott-Bell advanced forward well down the left flank, digging out a cross to the back post that was eventually bundled home by Sellars-Fleming.
Harrison Poulter almost made it two with a sharp turn and shot from just inside the area, before Charley Strouther also went close with a low-drive during the opening 45 minutes.
As the second half began, the ever-threatening duo of Poulter and Sellars-Fleming again tested the Mansfield backline, as they both came close to scoring in the opening stages of the half.
Josh Robertson’s tenacity in midfield was proving pivotal in shutting down any potential Town counter attacks, with the game still teetering on a knife edge heading into the final twenty minutes.
Strouther again came close after cutting in to shoot with just minutes remaining, but the game finished level and the points were forced to be shared at the RH Academy.
Professional Development Phase Coach Rob Watson reflected on a strong performance on the road following the full-time whistle, commending his side's commitment across the 90 minutes.
"The boys competed really well today and more than matched a tough Mansfield side away from home," he began.
"We had some really good chances to grab the win throughout the second half but it was probably one of those games where each side dominated one half respectively.
"It was good to watch two good sides in a competitive match-up and I thought our boys, especially at times in the second half really dug in to help one another, which is something we encourage throughout the academy.
"We’ll get ready and go again against Burton at the weekend, which should be another good test for the lads all in all."
The Iron Under-18s return to action against Burton Albion in the EFL Youth Alliance League on Saturday morning at Appleby Frodingham. Kick-off is set for 11:00 GMT.
IRON: Oxborough; Pike, Young, Cunningham (Burden-Whittleton, 55); Elliott-Bell (Larkin, 67), Robertson, Abraham, Lewis, Strouther; Sellars-Fleming, Poulter.
SUB NOT USED: Murtaugh.