DAWSON DELIGHTED WITH DONCASTER THRASHING

DAWSON DELIGHTED WITH DONCASTER THRASHING

Chris Dawson gives his verdict on the Under-21s' 6-0 win over Doncaster...

United midfielder Chris Dawson admitted his delight after playing a starring role in the Under-21s’ comprehensive 6-0 cup win over Doncaster.

Dawson, who captained the side at Elland Road, was influential throughout and got on the score-sheet with a cool second-half finish to make it five from inside the area.

The other goals came from Zac Thompson, Adryan, Noel Hunt and a double from Brian Montenegro on a straightforward evening for Neil Redfearn’s side, who booked their place in the main draw of the Premier League Cup.

"It was a good performance from all the boys, great passing and movement in midfield and I think it was quite comfortable for us in the end," Dawson said.

"Personally, I thought I played quite well today. I could have got a couple more towards the end but I’m really pleased with the result and the performance pretty much from everyone."

Dawson also spoke of how the new signings such as Adryan, Montenegro and Dario Del Fabro have integrated into the Under-21 side and says playing at Elland Road will serve them well.

"It’s good for competition among the boys. It makes us try harder and we’ve all got to play together anyway as team-mates," he said.

"In the last few games we’ve struggled with communication but I thought today we did really well together. It was a really pleasing performance from us all.

"It’s a good experience. There were quite a few there on Monday evening which was quite pleasing so it’s really important for them to get experience inside the grounds."

Dawson made his first-team debut almost 18 months ago - April 2013’s 2-1 defeat at home to Derby County – but has not appeared since after a number of injury problems.

The 20-year-old was involved during pre-season and featured on the bench against Bolton earlier this season, though, and says he is determined to continue knocking on the door with impressive displays.

"It’s been really frustrating, I’ve just got to get on with it and keep my performances high. You never know what could happen," he said.

Dawson also hailed the impact of Redfearn, who he has worked with in both first-team and academy capacities.

"He’s done a great job, especially with the first team," said the youngster. "He’s had a massive influence on me so far in my career and he will do with a lot of the other lads as well.

"He’s an encouraging manager and always looks to support you - he’ll do anything he can to help you out. He’s a really good manager to have around the academy."

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