Chelsea have the notable advantage going into the second leg, but the scoreline perhaps flattered the visitors, with City more than matching their opposition.
Chelsea clearly settled into the game quicker than City and soon struck. Tammy Abraham produced a wonderfully executed strike from the right which nestled into the top corner. Haug in the City goal had no chance.
But City replied almost instantly through Buckley-Ricketts. Barker collected the ball just into the Chelsea half and darted into space before sliding the ball through to the striker, who slotted away with ease.
They could have completed a remarkable turnaround later when Bryan fizzed a pass through to Nemane. His deflected effort drew a fine save out of Bradley Collins.
However, Chelsea, who were physical and efficient for large spells, regained the lead in the 20th minute and again Abraham was the source. Haug saved well initially from a corner but the winger was left unmarked on the second phases and converted with an acrobatic attempt.
City struggled to penetrate a stubborn and well-organised Chelsea side in the first half, but began the second half with a new lease of life. A higher tempo and a more aggressive approach led to a host of openings. In the 55th minute, Garcia and Celina combined to great effect, with the latter’s sidefooted finish forcing Collins into a good stop.
The trend continued as City continued to pile on the pressure, dominating in most senses and playing with more purpose. Celina and Barker worked an opening on the left, which led to the winger getting in behind and squaring for Garcia, whose effort went agonisingly wide. Collins was rooted to the spot.
Then came a series of chances for Wilcox’s side in quick succession. First Nemane weaved into the area with a nutmeg but lashed high and wide. The wave of attacks was maintained, this time Kean Bryan pressed exceptionally to win the ball back, yet with a promising route to goal, he fired off target. The midfielder’s reaction said it all.
Pablo Maffeo powered his way through on the right, and after a penalty appeal was refuted by the referee, maintained his composure and saw a dangerous effort cleared off the line by an on-rushing Chelsea defender.
There was time for another commendable save from Collins to thwart Barker before Chelsea rubbed salt in the wounds. Dominic Solanke punished City’s slack passing by adding a third and hitting the inevitable sucker punch.
The Young Blues have reasons aplenty to be pleased with what they produced on the pitch, and they certainly proved to be worthy of taking on the current holders, even with a few notable absentees. But for many squandered chances, City would have at least levelled matters. Still, City are very much in the tie and will look to rattle Chelsea early on when the second leg comes around.
On a final note, there was a great, lively atmosphere around the ground as over 6,000 fans packed in to support the youngsters. The North Stand, with its safe-standing section, really got behind the boys and belted out many chants and songs. Maybe a glimpse of what to come.
