Once the match got under way, it was the Manchester United fans who had more to cheer about in the opening encounters after Joshua Zirkzee’s first-time strike gave them the lead after just 16 minutes.
Known for its electric atmosphere, the sold-out Croke crowd did not disappoint, and Leeds levelled the match against the run of play thanks to the unmarked Brenden Aaronson.
However, the Dublin fans were not treated to a classic with chances at a premium in the second half.
The lack of goalscoring opportunities did not dampen their spirits though, with Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes and summer signing Youri Tielemans’ introductions being met with enthusiastic cheers.
It was also a memorable night for substitute stopper Dermot Mee, who has played for Northern Ireland at underage level and played a key part in the victory after being introduced as a second-half substitute.
