The Cowgate-born midfielder sent the hosts ahead in emphatic fashion during the opening stages, firing the ball into the roof of the net from Alfie Harrison's pass, while Kieran Trippier and Matt Targett, the latter making his first competitive outing since sustaining a hamstring injury in November, also featured in the first-half at Whitley Park.

However, United's second-string were delivered a late blow as Timur Tutierov's header saw the spoils shared on Tyneside, with Munda frustrated not to prevail against their Black Cats counterparts.

The 18-year-old, who joined United's Academy as a nine-year-old, told newcastleunited.com: "I knew Alfie would find me in behind so I made the run knowing I'd get the ball and then, when I'm in on goal, I'm confident in what I can do and I was able to put it into the back of the net.

"Conceding late on in the game is disappointing when you don't win the game. We didn't lose but we always wanted to get the win. That was our aim.

"Knowing how big the game is, you always want to come away with three points but the lads will reflect and then we'll have our eyes on the next game (against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday), wanting a reaction from today."

Munda has enjoyed a positive pre-season campaign, making his first-team bow for Eddie Howe's side during a 2-0 win against Hull City last month before making his maiden outing at St. James' Park during the Magpies' Sela Cup triumph against Stade Brestois.

The central midfielder, who signed his first professional contract last month, is keen to build on his senior experiences with his boyhood club and as well as progress further in the fledgling stages of his career.

"Playing with the under-21s last season has helped me get to the standard of those at under-21 level," Munda added. "Going into the new season, I do think those experiences have helped me and I can push on from that.

"It was a proud moment for me and my family to make my first-team debut for Newcastle United. It's something I've always wanted to do since I first came to the club's Academy and something I've been looking to do.

"Now, it's time to kick on. That's just the start and I have more stuff to do.

"It was a great opportunity to play for the first team. I look up to the likes of Joelinton and Joe Willock but, at the end of the day, I want to try and surpass them and make my own place in the first-team squad."