Chorley 4 Man City U-21s 2: Cummins’ overhead kick steals the show
Chorley rounded off their 2026/27 pre-season with an impressive victory over Manchester City’s Under-21s at the Grant Store Victory Park Stadium on Friday night.
Andy Preece's side were significantly better than the display shown at Trafford in midweek, with Harvey Smith, a trialist, Jacob Cummins and Elliot Taylor all on target before the visitors grabbed a late consolation.
The Magpies made the brighter start and were rewarded after 10 minutes. George Horbury marked his return with an inviting cross which was met by Smith, heading smartly into the top corner.
City responded almost immediately, though, levelling four minutes later when Teddie Lamb raced in behind the Chorley defence before calmly slotting beyond the goalkeeper.
Chorley regained the lead on 28 minutes after a trialist was brought down inside the penalty area. Picking himself up, he confidently converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.
Preece's side took control after the break and extended their advantage with the goal of the night. Billy Whitehouse's lofted cross was met by Cummins, who produced a remarkable overhead kick that flew into the top corner to leave the crowd stunned.
Five minutes later, the Magpies added a fourth. Cummins turned provider with a clever pass to Taylor, who raced through on goal before calmly finishing to score his second goal for the club.
Jake Wain pulled one back for City's youngsters six minutes from time, but it proved little more than a consolation as Chorley saw out a deserved victory ahead of next weekend's National League North opener against Chester.