Manchester United beat Watford in style at Old Trafford today to bring the gap to fourth-place Chelsea back to only three points. United have now moved up to 5th place, leapfrogging Spurs and Sheffield United, who both lost points over the weekend.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made six changes following the midweek Europa League draw at Club Brugge, but with just two changes from the team that won at Chelsea on Monday night, Brandon Williams and Eric Bailly dropping to the bench.
Bruno Fernandes won and converted a penalty before the half-time break while Anthony Martial doubled the lead with a superb solo effort in the second half. Mason Greenwood put the icing on the cake with a fierce finish in the 75th minute after good build-up play with Fernandes. United were once again favoured by VAR, Craig Dawson’s equalizer ruled out due to a hand-ball in the build-up.
My Man of the Match was Luke Shaw, who retained his place over Brandon Williams. He was solid at left-back and made some vital clearances at key time, including a terrific goal-saving block to deny Deeney in the third-minute. He was continuously supporting the forwards when on the attack, and was key in the build up to United’s second goal. He even thundered a shot at Foster in the 24th minute. Overall Luke continues to be in-form with another superb defensive showing and with crucial clearances when it mattered.
Next up, the return leg at Old Trafford against Club Brugge on Thursday.
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