Alan Smith put in an outstanding display as United's Reserves registered a stylish first win in four games against Newcastle at Ewen Fields.

Brian McClair and Jim Ryan had seen their side slip to three unfortunate draws in recent weeks, but goals from Michael Barnes, Jamie Mullan and Chris Eagles sealed all three points for United.

Smith gave another energetic 90 minutes littered with boisterous hold-up play and neat touches, while strike partner Dong Fangzhuo set up both goals with clever flicks.

Finding a poor display among United's young side would be a futile task, such was the consistent level of performance throughout the team.

Chris Eagles had already dragged a shot wide when he set up Mullan on the right edge of the area after 14 minutes.

The tricky winger twisted and turned his marker before watching as his left foot shot hit the base of the post and rebounded to safety off Magpies goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek.

Within a minute, though, the veteran Czech goalkeeper was beaten as Dong's slight touch released Barnes, and the Chorley wide man calmly slid the ball inside the far post.

Dong and skipper Kieran Lee both went close with smart snapshots before Mullan stretched United's advantage, slotting past Srnicek after Dong had flicked on Ngalula's pass.