Despite making two substitute appearances for the youngsters, this was his first start since August 2012.
Taylor has twice ruptured his cruciate ligament and made it through the 90-minute barrier.
Dead ball specialist
United have been desperate for quality in dead-ball situations since Taylor was injured, with Jack Colback failing to bring the quality the ex-Wigan midfielder produced.
But I think it is taking a risk throwing him into the heat of White Hart Lane after only one 90 minute reserve appearance.
He scored from a penalty, with Haris Vuckic and Dan Barlaser scoring the other two in a comfortable win over nine-man Brighton, who had Rea and Danny Pappoe sent off.
Ryan Taylor: “I’ve had a chat with the manager.
“I’d love to go to Tottenham.
“I’d love to get involved, even if it does mean I have to pay a couple more (reserve) games.
“It would just be nice to get back involved.
“It’s something I’ve needed – it’s a long time since I’ve played 90 minutes.
“Now I can at least declare myself available and look to push on.
“I like to take pens – I was always going to take it.
“That feeling of putting the ball in the net is like no other. It’s a moment of joy. It was nice to do it again.
“But it wasn’t about the goal – it’s about helping the young lads and getting through the 90 minutes. To get the goal was a nice touch.”