Coach Lee Duxbury was delighted by the display of Latics reserves who lost 2-1 last night to Manchester United in the Manchester Senior Cup at Stalybridge.

It took a breathtaking goal from Frederico Macheda for the Reds, whose side also included Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown and Anderson, to edge an absorbing cup-tie.

Latics even had the temerity to take the lead early in the second half through a header from Joe Jacobson.

Duxbury said: "I was very pleased with our performance apart from the two goals we conceded.

"It was disappointing to let in a goal so soon after taking the lead. Keeper Josh Ollerenshaw held up his hands and admitted it was his fault for the first goal and we failed to close down Macheda for the second.

"Apart from that, I was pleased as the lads were discliplined and concentrated for 90 minutes, apart from the first goal, against a team containing world-class players.

"The professionals looked after the young kids and they organised things on the pitch.

"We had three scholars in our side and it was great experience for them."

Latics also operated a 4-5-1 system which differed from the usual 4-4-2 to try and stifle United .

Duxbury said: "As we were playing Manchester United, and because of the individuals they have, I thought it was important we had a solid platform which is why we went with that formation.

"It frustrated them to such an extent that they kept giving the ball away which was a compliment."

The system Latics played left second-year scholar Andy Crompton as the lone front man and he led the line like a seasoned professional against a defence containing England internationals Ferdinand and Brown.