- United dropped two points in a nil-nil draw with lowly Watford at Old Trafford, which could prove to be a decisive setback in the fight for fourth place and Champions league qualification. United started on the front foot from the first minute and could have been a few goals up by halftime if they were more clinical in front of Ben Foster’s goal. The closest they came though was from a low drive by Ronaldo which hit the post and when the latter found the net from a Telles cross, the goal was ruled out for a tight offside position. The second half continued on the same vein of play and it was almost incessant pressure by United, as Watford contented themselves with the point and kept most of their players behind the ball as they soaked the pressure of United. Despite Rangnick made attacking changes to the team during the match, no United player could break the deadlock. At the end of the match, United had 22 attempts to show for their efforts but only three on target. Certainly two points lost in the quest to qualify for Champions League spots next season.
- This was a frustrating afternoon for United. Despite their endeavours, they could not find the winning goal and continues to show the lack of accuracy the team has at the very top. The team is creating chances and at times the combination play was sensational but as the statistics show, United were erratic with their conclusions. Three shots on target during the whole match is not good enough and the blame has to rest on the shoulders of the forwards, particularly on Ronaldo and Fernandes. Both had very good chances to score and missed. I was disappointed that Mata was not given a chance in the last fifteen minutes against a Watford side that by then were defending in their final third of the pitch. Mata was never the quickest and with age he lost a couple more yards of pace but his experience and ability to find room in the tightest of spaces is still there and it could have been utilised to good effect by United today.
- I was pleased to see two very good performances from Matic on his return to starting line up and Wan Bissaka, who started the second match in a row following the mid-week encounter in Madrid. Matic controlled the midfield until he tired out in the last fifteen minutes and was substituted, while Wan Bissaka was excellent in defence as usual and very good going forward. He found a good understanding with Elanga and never gave in to the fight on that right flank. He gets my special mention for this match. Hopefully he can continue in this vein of form.
Looking forward to receiving your thoughts on the Facebook page. GGMU
Article contributed by Contributor Roderick. Comments are appreciated on our Facebook page.