Manchester United faced their first defeat of the 2018/19 Premier League season in their second outing only. The Red Devils travelled to the Amex Stadium to take on Brighton and Hove Albion, who came from a defeat at the hands of Watford in their first match this term. It was expected to be a tough away fixture for the runners-up from the last season, but a loss was not really on anyone’s radar here.
Both the teams started shakily and squandered a few chances to get in the lead. However, the Seagulls drew first blood through Glenn Murray in the 25th minute. Shane Duffy doubled the lead in the 27th minute as conundrum loomed large in the Manchester United defence from a corner. The final nail in United’s coffin was pinned down by Pascal Groß from the spot as David De Gea almost made the save, but the ball went in after hitting his leg.
Jose Mourinho’s men struggled throughout the match and lacked the winning instinct. After Romelu Lukaku put them back in the fray with a well-taken header to make it 2-1 in the 34th minute, no one took the responsibility of getting them to fight back. A consolation penalty in the 95th minute from Paul Pogba was too little too late to steal a point for the Red Devils from the match.
This is how the Manchester United players are rated in their disappointing draw against Brighton and Hove Albion.
David De Gea: 5
Had a forgettable outing. Could have saved the penalty but it was not his day by far.
Ashley Young: 4
Was caught wrong-footed quite a few times in an unfamiliar position. Could not contain the opposition attackers.
Eric Bailly: 6
Looked like the only positive defender in the Manchester United lineup.
Victor Lindelof: 5
Was nowhere near his performance from the first match. Lacked agility.
Luke Shaw: 5
A flop performance from the Englishman as far as defending is concerned. However, it was his deflected shot from which Lukaku scored the goal.
Paul Pogba: 6
Failed to influence the overall result with his dominating ball play. Scored from the spot but it was too late for a fightback.
Juan Mata: 5
Was not found in the right positions in the first half. Was substituted at halftime.
Andreas Pereira: 5
An off day for the Brazilian as he looked out of sorts. Was also substituted during halftime.
Fred: 5
Needs to work a lot more on his game and get into positions more often to announce himself on the biggest stage.
Anthony Martial: 6
Made a few brilliant runs but lacked the end product.
Romelu Lukaku: 7
Played really well but it was not his day. Missed an excellent opportunity in the early minutes of the match.
Substitutes
Marcus Rashford: 6
Came on at halftime but failed to make an impact. Looked good on occasions.
Jesse Lingard: 5
Looked completely out of touch and could not live up to the expectations.
Marouane Fellaini: 6
Showed a positive attitude and earned a penalty for his side in the dying hours of the match.
