Manchester United kept their hopes alive in the 3rd Round of the FA Cup Tie courtesy of an early goal from Scott McTominay. The decisive goal helped United beat Aston Villa 1-0 at Old Trafford on Monday.
FA Match Review
McTominay headed in Fred’s curling delivery in the box in the 8th minute to give the hosts a flying start. Steven Gerrard’s Villa responded with brute force from then on. United found it difficult to contain Villa who played the better football. Watkins smashed a shot against the crossbar after capitalising on a mistake by Victor Lindelof. As Villa consistently dominated, De Gea was forced into excellent saves to deny John McGinn and Emi Buendia. Villa forced United into playing largely from counter attack.
Marcus Rashford foiled an incredible chance to double United’s lead just before the 45′ minute mark. Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez did well to tip over Luke Shaw’s piledriver. Villa maintained the pressure on United with their football following the break. Although, Rangnick’s side did regain some control over the game towards the end.
FA Cup – Match Analysis
The victory was a sigh of relief for United Boss Ralf Rangnick. Consequently, the game also reflected on the how much work needs to be done if United are to challenge for silverware. Steven Gerrard, would be more hurt from his team’s inability to capitalise on their opportunites; than from the badgering from the Red Devil Fans. Rangnick’s tactic of abandoning his famed 4-2-2-2 formation; Gegenpressing received heavy criticism.
Bruno Fernandes led the United side on Monday with Harry Maguire and Cristiano Ronaldo ruled out with injuries. Victor Lindelof; A change from the weekend loss to Wolverhampton, made the biggest howler of the night. Made a terrible hash of playing a simple long punt forward by Mings back to De Gea. It allowed Watkins to pounce on the opportunity only to get shot back off the cross-bar. United’s inability to hold the game was utterly visible in the first 20 minutes of the second half. It seemed inevitable that Villa would equalise. Nonetheless, De Gea and VAR disallowed any opportunity for Villa to equalise.
But the game could be described with United’s Luck and Villa’s wastefulness.
What Next?
Manchester United-The 12 time FA Cup Champions, have drawn up against second-tier Middlesbrough in the next round of the FA Cup. Meanwhile for Aston Villa, they have a chance for vendetta as they host United in the Premier League on Saturday.
