Sheffield United 1, Manchester United 2
Diogo Dalot scored a stunning winner that Manchester United legend Bobby Charlton would have been proud of as the Reds beat Sheffield United.
“Some players got inspiration. It was an extra motivation.” admitted United manager Erik ten Hag after the game.
“The first half was not a good game. You see it often after an international break, especially with us.
“We allowed them to make it their game. We were too direct – no good organisation.
“We made some changes at half time and we kept the ball better and were less direct.
“We controlled the game, made chances, and got a deserved win with a beautiful goal.
United defender Harry Maguire – a former Sheffield United player and now fighting for his place with the Reds – rose up to the emotion of the occasion.
He was man of the match and helped drive the Reds out of a mediocre first half and into a much winning second half.
Embed from Getty ImagesTen Hag added: “He is playing like we want him to play, very proactive out of possession, dominating his opponent, stepping in when necessary and reading the game.
“Good vertical passing and switches – I am happy with his performance.”
There was an emotional tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton as wreaths were laid before the game at Bramall Lane.
Cameron Archer had an early chance saved by Andre Onana as United struggled to create much.
Despite a poor first half from the Reds, it was in-form Scott McTominay who gave United the lead after 28 minutes with a scruffy goal after good work by Bruno Fernandes to lift the ball into him.
The Blades hit back soon afterwards when McTominay handled the ball from James McAtee’s cross and Oli McBurnie levelled the scores after 34 minutes with a well taken goal in off the post.
Bruno Fernandes hit the crossbar with a free kick while Wes Fotheringham denied Rasmus Hojlund a goal with a great save.
Onana saved from Rhian Brewster while Marcus Rashford screwed a shot wide and Sofyan Amrabat also hit the crossbar with a long range effort.
The Reds finally got their winner in the 77th minute when Victor Lindelöf found Dalot with a pull back and the United full back curled in the winner from 25 yards out with his first goal of the season.