So in the end it was alright on the night. A bizarre own goal, a rare penalty miss from Fernandes (he had previously scored 10 out of 10 from the spot for the Red Devils, but didn’t the keeper move before the ball was hit!), at least two shots cleared off the line, and a disallowed Fernandes goal. But United did not allow their heads to drop and with four minutes remaining the Portuguese finally beat the Magpies keeper with a thumping finish, before Aaron Wan-Bissaka, with his first for the club, and Rashford ensured United’s second win of the season.
There were quite a number of positives. Captain Maguire’s performance, considering his recent problems and being sent off for England in mid week. He scored a goal, great defending and led by example. Wan-Bissaka, on his 50th appearance for the club, produced an equally thunderous finish from the right. Dan James looked much more comfortable playing on the left and probed time and again. De Gea’s great save, at 1-1 from Callum Wilson’s side-footer was breathtaking.
My Man of the Match would be Marcus Rashford. He led the line as the lone striker and not only slotted in a well deserved goal, but also provided the assist for the 2nd and 3rd. His run into the box earned United the penalty. He dropped back well and provided some bursting ball-carrying runs forward.
Said Ole after the match, “The season started for us today”. Fingers now crossed for United’s visit to France on Tuesday.
Article contributed by Contributor Kenneth. Comments are appreciated on our Facebook page.