Newcastle's youngsters conceded four times in the first half at Finch Farm following Jake Doughty's brace and strikes from Charlie Stewart and Jonathan Nsangou.

United's youngsters pulled two goals back in the second-half as Ethan Ndiweni, brother of former Newcastle striker Michael, netted twice in the space of 11 minutes.

Fifteen-year-old trio Muawiya Ghanem, Charlie Robinson and CJ Afumuzor were all handed their debuts at under-18 level but, despite a positive second-half showing, the damage was ultimately done in the opening 45 minutes as Chris Moore's side were condemned to defeat on Merseyside.

Newcastle United Under-18s: Roman Dowell, Jack Patterson, Noah Morgan, Aaron Epia, Luke Gilligan, Kacey Wooster (CJ Afumuzor 90), Ethan Ndiweni, Sammy Pinnington, Alfie Hutchison (Charlie Robinson 83), Matheos Ferreira (Jack Callaghan 62), Alfie Seldon (Muawiya Ghanem 62).

Subs not used: Will Anderson.