Sheffield Wednesday booked their place in the knockout stages of the EFL Trophy after beating Sunderland under-21s 2-0 at Hillsborough on Tuesday night.
Jaden Heskey’s first goal for the club put The Owls ahead inside 20 minutes. Callum Slattery had two attempts saved by Joe Cowan but their lead remained slim at the break.
Substitute Jamal Lowe almost made an instant impact early after half-time but he was denied by an excellent save by Cowan. Later, the visitors thought they had equalised through Trey Ogunsuyi but the offside flag was up.
Barry Bannan smashed in a second goal with 10 minutes remaining to seal the victory for the hosts. After two wins from two, Wednesday advance to the knockout rounds with one group game to still to play against Accrington Stanley.
Here are our player ratings from the game...
1. Connal Trueman 6
Handed his debut. Made a really smart save down to his left to deny Scott just after Wednesday had taken the lead. Didn't have much to do apart from that. Kicking could have been tidier.
2. Sean Fusire 7
His first start of the season. Had been injured in the first part of campaign but got minutes for Zimbabwe on international duty. Bright and breezy here. Delivered some testing crosses. Got the assist for the opener. Made a positive impression. | ugc
3. Ricardo Santos 5
Probably not one of those who was expected to start but the minutes will only help him get into his groove after a long time out. Not entirely convincing in possession but defended okay. Replaced at half-time. | ugc
4. Gabriel Otegbayo 6
Given an opportunity here when many would have expected Bernard or Weaver to play but they were both absent. Steady and gritty. | ugc