PL2 playoff: Harriman-Annous wins penalty converted by Butler-Oyedeji as Arsenal beat Newcastle

Nathan Butler-Oyedeji was on U21 duties on Friday night as Arsenal beat Newcastle United 2-1 to qualify for the quarterfinals of the Premier League 2 playoffs. 

Five days after making his Premier League debut at Ipswich Town, the Nigerian forward was named in the starting lineup as the young Gunners welcomed the Magpies to Meadow Park.

Andre Harriman-Annous also started for Arsenal, while Newcastle United's Trevan Sanusi entered the game as a substitute in stoppage time. 

Arsenal broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when Butler-Oyedeji converted a penalty won by Harriman-Annous, who was brought down inside the box by Cathal Heffernan.

Butler-Oyedejii had a chance to double the advantage but saw his shot saved after cutting inside from the left flank.

Scott Bailey brought Newcastle back on terms within 60 seconds of the restart, scoring his first goal at U21 level with a sensational strike from distance that looped over the Gunners goalkeeper.

With the clock ticking down and extra-time on the horizon, Newcastle were dealt a blow as they gave away another penalty, which Khayon Edwards slotted home in stoppage-time.

While Butler-Oyedeji was replaced in the 73rd minute, Harriman-Annous was in action for 86 minutes. 

In the quarterfinals, Arsenal will face either Manchester City or Liverpool.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: arsenal.com

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