Manchester United moved one more step closer to challenge the “incredible” Manchester City side this season with a 2-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion. The Baggies tried to come out of their usual defensive style of gameplay and showed some attacking instincts, notching up a goal via a strike from the veteran midfielder Gareth Barry in the later stages of the match. However, it proved futile for his side as the Red Devils walked away with all three points, courtesy of goals scored by Romelu Lukaku and Jesse Lingard.
The Belgian striker will be more than relieved to be back among the goals after some sort of a goal drought and lead his team to another victory. Lingard, on the other hand, has been in good form of late and netted his fourth goal in the last five matches to show for his efforts.
West Bromwich Albion, however, will not be happy about the result as it pushes them deeper down the league table with a possibility of getting relegated looming large over them.
Manchester United Player Rated and Slated
David De Gea (6)-
Was prudent as usual and made his best effort to keep a clean sheet. The goal scored, however, did not help his cause.
Antonio Valencia (7)-
Did well to see the opposition attackers cause no harm. His injury, for which he had to be substituted, is going to be a huge blow for Mourinho for sure.
Phil Jones (7)-
Played with absolute grit and kept the opposition attackers quite. Complemented his partner Smalling well.
Chris Smalling (7)-
Helped his side to hold on to their one-goal lead and kept his side out of harm’s way. The goal, however, was not an example of solid defending on his part.
Ashley Young (6)-
Another gritty performance from the veteran midfielder in the left back position. Looks like Luke Shaw is in for some serious competition.
Nemanja Matic (7)-
Solid as ever in the midfield and kept Krychowiak and Barry under careful watch. Well complemented the attackers by constantly threading delightful passes into the opposition half.
Ander Herrera (6)-
Did not look as good as he should have been alongside Matic. Lost possession of the ball quite a few times in the match, giving away the advantage to the opposition.
Juan Mata (7)-
Looked good with his dribbling and cunning wizardry. Provided the assist that led to Jesse Lingard’s goal.
Jesse Lingard (8)-
Played to the best of his abilities, linking up with the others and scored the all-important second goal that proved to be the deciding factor in the end.
Marcus Rashford (8)-
Made a big impact on the game, bamboozling the opposition defence with his shrewd footwork. Provided the assist for Lukaku’s opener.
Romelu Lukaku (7)-
Lack of pace has been detrimental for him but he stuck to his job and scored a goal to lead his side to a much-needed victory.
Substitutes-
Marcos Rojo (5)-
Was a disappointing effort from the Argentine as he came on for Valencia in the 66th minute.
Anthony Martial-
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Scott McTominay-
Played too little to warrant a rating.
