Wasteful Chelsea U21s lose to Shrewsbury Town in EFL Trophy opener despite Mheuka’s goal

Chelsea U21 lost 3-1 to League One side Shrewsbury Town in their opening EFL Trophy fixture at Croud Meadow on Tuesday evening.

The Blues dominated in the early stages and were rewarded for their endeavours when Shim Mheuka opened the scoring inside 10 minutes, converting Kian Best’s low cross.

Four minutes later, the hosts restored parity as Tommy McDermott’s shot deflected off a defender and looped into the top corner.

Chelsea were denied a chance to regain their lead by goalkeeper Elyh Harrison, who was quick to come off the line to prevent Richard Olise from scoring.

Olise was denied again by Harrison when he received a cut-back from Kavuma-McQueen and fired a low shot, which was saved by the Manchester United loanee.

Shrewsbury then had two consecutive chances, which fell to Captain John Marquis, with his first effort flying off the post and the other hitting the woodwork.

Just before half-time, goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina produced a brilliant save to preserve the scoreline.

Chelsea started the second half as the better side and came close to taking the lead through Kavuma-McQueen, whose attempt crashed off the crossbar.

Mheuka thought he had put the Blues ahead when he tapped Kavuma-McQueen’s cross into the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Shrewsbury went ahead against the run of play in the 65th minute following a defensive error, which allowed Isaac England to set up Marquis for the goal.

Will Boyle sealed the victory for Michael Appleton’s side after 72 minutes, guiding Sam Clucas’ corner beyond Slonina’s reach.

Chelsea’s next EFL Trophy fixture is at Northampton Town on September 23. They are back in Premier League 2 action on Friday when they face Aston Villa.