Manchester United just about got the job done against relegation strugglers West Bromwich Albion, battling to a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford. WBA boast a strong record at Old Trafford and many had backed the Baggies to serve up more home frustration for Solskjaer’s men. United were desperate for a long-awaited Premier League home win, having gone six matches without a league victory on home soil, having picked up just one point there from a possible 12 so far this campaign, and having hit the back of the net just three times in their previous five league fixtures on home turf. Indeed United struggled once again to break down a side that sat back and defended.
In the end it was only thanks to Ferdandes’ retaken penalty that the Reds came away with their first 3-points of the season from Old Trafford. And the assistance of VAR in overturning the ref’s decision to award WBA a penalty. Former United keeper Sam Johnstone made a string of superb stops to deny his old club, including a splendid save from Fernandes’ initial penalty kick.
In reality United were forced to field a changed side, with Luke Shaw, Jesse Lingard and Phil Jones unable to train on the eve of the match, and Mason Greenwood still returning from illness. Eric Bailly and Marcos Rojo continue to build up fitness.
Fortunately Alex Telles recovered from a positive Covid-19 test, making his Premier League debut. In my view he was the United Man of the Match. He grew into the game during the second-half, being assured in possession, defending strongly and always going forward. A good overall performance, as he focused on trying to break down the stubborn opponents. Both his speculative Scholes–like volleys from corners were unfortunately awry.
It looks like being an interesting season. After successive victories, United are now in the top half of the table for the first time this season, moving up to 9th, with a minus-one goal difference, four points off fourth placed Liverpool, both sides having played 8 games. Spurs and Chelsea, currently first and second respectively, both have a plus 12 goal difference. United are now also above City in the table!
United remain at home to face Istanbul in the Champions League on Tuesday. Then it’s off to Southampton for the Sunday match.
Article contributed by Contributor Kenneth. Comments are appreciated on our Facebook page.