United are now back in second place, though still 14 points behind City, albeit with a game in hand. It was a game in which the Hammers did not have a single shot on target. Fabianski made at least a couple of superb saves to deny the Reds. Greenwood hit the upright. But in reality it was not an easy match, with United getting the three points only thanks to West Ham’s Craig Dawson heading through his own goal from a Fernandes corner. West Ham played in typical David Moyes fashion, well known by United, defensively, even finding it hard to change their system when a goal down. Ole did not even risk making any substitutions, so tight was the match, which is no good thing considering coming Thursday’s decisive match. This is the first time that this has occurred.
My Man of the Match has to be Luke Shaw who again was excellent at both ends of the pitch and hardly put a foot wrong foot, coordinating with Rashford on the wing admirably. No argument that he was United’s best player for the umpteenth time this season, continuing a fine run of form. He offered width regularly and led the team in recoveries and tackles so much so that his teammates often looked for him. Made an important block towards the end. He has become a key part of this team’s future and a clear contender for the left-back spot for England in the Euros. Statistics show that he won 2/2 tackles, made eight recoveries among his 94 touches, and also made 36 passes in the final third. Said Gary Neville after the match, “He’s on top of his game, Luke Shaw. No panic at all if he’s in a bit of trouble. He’s just really relaxed and moves his way out of a tight corner.”
United’s next League match is a home game on Saturday 3rd April against Brighton. Following the visit to Milan, United must first however visit Leicester on Sunday for a place in the semi-final of the FA Cup.
Article contributed by Contributor Kenneth. Comments are appreciated on our Facebook page.