Jonny Howson secured United reserves a deserved win against Hartlepool United at Elland Road on Wednesday afternoon.

Howson bagged the winner three minutes from time to complete a spirited comeback by Neil Thompson's side.

After dominating the first half - Filipe Da Costa caused Pools all manner of problems and was unfortunate to see a well-placed effort come back off the inside of the post - the visitors took the lead on 66 minutes, courtesy of a controversial penalty decision.

Tom Lees was adjudged to have brought down David Foley and Michael Rae stepped up to convert the spot-kick.

The goal was harsh on a United side who had enjoyed the better of proceedings, but the equaliser also came in controversial fashion 10 minutes from time. A penalty, awarded for handball, angered the Hartlepool defence, but Da Costa capitalised when he smashed home the penalty to level matters.

Moments later, Stefan Connor was denied by visiting goalkeeper Arran Lee-Barrett, but the winner came on 87 minutes when Howson ghosted in at the far post to convert a Ben Parker free-kick.

The game ended on a sour note, though, when Hartlepool midfielder Stephen Turnbull sparked a mass melee after taking a needless kick at Da Costa in the final minute of the game.

The game also marked the return of Shaun Derry from a heel injury - the midfielder made his first start of the year - and he came through the full 90 minutes. He also came close to scoring a rare goal at the start of the second half when he headed a Howson corner narrowly wide.

The downside for United was the loss of Scott Gardner early in the game with injury. Gardner, who has only just returned from injury, limped out of the action on 21 minutes.

United: Edwards, Gardner (Wilkinson 21), Lees, Madden, Parker, Weston, Howson, Derry, Bayly, Da Costa, Ameobi (Connor 81). Subs (not used): Rothery, Hotchkiss, Wilkinson, Cartman.