United Beyond Manchester

In a tight, testy match, Manchester United grabbed another late win to go 4 straight games unbeaten in the Premier League. Goals from Hojlund and McTominay inched United ever closer to the top 4 spot that is needed for Erik Ten Hag and the club as a whole. Let’s dive into the action.

First Half Analysis

Manchester United started well and created the first real chances of the match. From the beginning, it was clear that United had found something targeting Harry Maguire on corner kicks. In the 17th minute, Maguire latched onto a header off the corner from Bruno Fernandes and dropped it at the feet of Rasmus Hojlund. Hojlund, in his current form, was never going to miss the opportunity and placed the ball between the legs of Emi Martinez to put United up 1-0. After the goal, the rest of the half was littered with Villa chances. The opponents found something in playing the ball wide to Alex Moreno and getting it back into midfielders who were making runs in the space between Dalot and Varane. Onana was forced into 2 saves, including one off of a blistered strike from John McGinn. United held on and defended well, though, and entered the half up 1-0.

2nd Half Analysis

Within 3 minutes of the start of the second half, Villa created their best chance of the game. Ollie Watkins found himself right in front of goal but he hit it right at Onana. Rashford continued to be United’s liveliest player going forward, beating players down the line and creating shooting opportunities for himself and others. Villa got their reward for being the aggressors in the 67th minute when United couldn’t get the ball cleared. A weak clearance popped back out to Leon Bailey who whipped it in for Douglas Luiz to redirect on goal. In the 72nd minute, Scott McTominay replaced Marcus Rashford to play in a second striker-type role. After moments of shakiness and near fragility, McTominay repaid Ten Hag’s faith in him with yet another big goal to put United back up 2-1 in the 85th minute. A beautiful delivery from Diogo Dalot allowed the Scotsman to smash a header past Martinez who had no chance.

Player of the Match

The goal scorers, Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund, both could have won this honor. However, my Player of the Match award goes to Diogo Dalot. Dalot defended well all game when he was needed and was excellent going forward. His delivery for McTominay’s winner could not have been any better. Dalot’s form will need to continue for United to keep pushing towards the top 4.

Looking Ahead

United’s big win today put them within 5 points of the top 4. A trip to Luton Town next weekend will provide both a great opportunity and a test. Luton has been surging as of late outside of a slip against Sheffield United this weekend. This is the type of game United will need to win to continue the push for a Champions League spot.