David McGoldrick Shines with Hat-Trick in Barnsley's Victory
Veteran striker David McGoldrick made headlines by scoring a hat-trick for Barnsley, leading them to a 5-2 victory over Manchester United U21s in the Vertu Trophy. In another match, Stevenage also triumphed over Crystal Palace U21s with the same scoreline.
In the night's other fixture, Barnet secured a 3-2 win against Cambridge United, placing them at the top of Southern Group H.
Under the guidance of manager Alex Revell, Stevenage has enjoyed a perfect record in their EFL Trophy matches this season, currently sitting second in League One, just one point behind leaders Cardiff City, with a game in hand.
Lewis Orford played a pivotal role for Stevenage, providing two assists for Phoenix Patterson before scoring the fifth goal of the match at Lamex Stadium. Harry Lee's own goal initially gave the hosts the lead, followed by Jovan Malcolm doubling the advantage in the 24th minute.
Crystal Palace responded with goals from George King and Kaden Rodney, but Patterson scored twice, and Orford added a late goal in added time to seal the victory.
Meanwhile, McGoldrick, 37, celebrated his first goals for Barnsley since August, with Neil Farrugia and Jon Russell also contributing to the score at Oakwell. Jack Fletcher had given Manchester United the lead but was sent off shortly after the hour mark, with Chido Obi scoring the visitors’ other goal.
Barnet staged a comeback against Cambridge after falling behind 2-1. Lee Ndlovu opened the scoring for the Bees, but an own goal by Oliver Hawkins and a strike from Elias Kachunga turned the tide in favor of the U's. Britt Assombalonga equalized on his debut for Barnet, and Emmanuel Osadebe clinched the victory with a goal in the 90th minute, securing the win for Dean Brennan's team.