Manchester United hosted Rochdale in the third round of the Carabao Cup tie. They made heavy work of the side who are 17th in the League One right now as the Premier League giants were stretched to the penalty shootout after normal time ended at 1-1.
United lacked impetus in the first half, and the game was played at a slow tempo. Rochdale dug in deep, and they deserved to go in at half time level against Manchester United.
The home team started the second half strongly with the likes of Greenwood and James getting into dangerous positions. Rochdale goalkeeper Sanchez made some impressive saves to keep his side in the game. United conceded with almost their first attack on goal as Wan Bissaka had to clear the ball off the line brilliantly.
Greenwood finally turned United’s domination into a goal as he finished smartly with his left foot in the 67th minute. However, Rochdale continued with their spirited display and 16-year-old Matherson scored from close quarters to bring his side level. The game went into penalties, and everyone scored for United which saved Ole’s blushes for the time being.
Here is how United players fared on the night.
Sergio Romero 7
Didn’t have much to do in the regulation time. Saved an impressive penalty and that turned out to be the difference in the end.
Axel Tuanzebe 7
Had little to do throughout the game but dealt with the few dangers which Rochdale created.
Phil Jones 5
Came off at half time, probably due to injury. Did okayish in the first 45.
Aaron Wan Bissaka 6
Was poor with his final ball and wasn’t able to affect play much in the attacking half. Denied a Rochdale attempt on goal spectacularly.
Marcos Rojo 6
Should have scored through a header. Provided a threat from the left flank and took some decent attempts on goal. Could have been more accurate with his crossing.
Fred 4
Didn’t provide any positive attacking play throughout the game. Misplaced a few passes as well. Scored the penalty, which was his saving grace in a poor performance overall.
Paul Pogba 5
Was often too casual in his approach and missed a sitter in the first half. Surprising that he didn’t take any of the five penalties. Made impressive diagonal passes but never really got out of his second gear.
Tahith Chong 3
Was extremely poor on the flanks and lacked inventiveness or any kind of attacking impetus. Substituted early and it seems likely that he will probably not make it at Manchester United.
Andreas Pereira 4
Could be blamed for the goal which Rochdale scored as Matherson showed more desire to get to the high ball first. Put in a few decent crosses but was poor overall in the attacking third.
Jesse Lingard 3
Still not clear what he provides to this United team or what his best position is. Was hardly able to affect play on the attacking front.
Mason Greenwood 8
The only player who looked a real threat throughout the game. His movement was sharp and took plenty of attempts on goal. Finished well for his goal and scored the penalty as well.
Substitutes
Brandon Williams 6
Did a decent job after coming on.
Daniel James 6.5
Created one or two dangerous chances which were missed by his team-mates. Made an impact after coming on and scored the final penalty.
Juan Mata N/A
Wasn’t involved much after coming on but scored a penalty.
