Manchester United were desperate to secure this season’s first league win at Old Trafford defeating West Brom on Saturday night. The Baggies, struggling deep down the league tally, delivered a headstrong display, however, yet another controversial penalty call proved to be the difference. Bruno Fernandes was allowed to retake the spot-kick which was converted by the Portuguese to secure all three points for the home side.
Below are the Manchester United players rated in their edgy win against West Brom.
David De Gea: 7
The Spaniard made a couple of smart saves to deny the visitors and was lucky not to concede when Callum Robinson hit the woodwork.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka: 6.5
Could have offered more going forward, but his efforts high up the pitch lacked accuracy on most occasions. Was solid defensively as always with timely tackles and a lot of recoveries.
Victor Lindelof: 7.5
Had some nervy occasions against Karlan Grant and Hal Robson-Kanu, but the Swedish centre-half was spot-on otherwise with routine blocks and interceptions.
Harry Maguire: 7
Maguire, too, was towering defensively similar to his central defensive partner. Lost a few duels though, however, managed to defend the narrow lead to keep a clean sheet and secure the victory.
Alex Telles: 7.5
Had a commendable display down the left-hand flank with persistent crossing and link-up football with Marcus Rashford. Performed his duties at the back by winning duels and making recoveries.
Nemanja Matic: 7
Kept things under control in the middle of the park. Kept the ball rolling but lacked enough vision and creative spark in terms of passing and build-up play.
Fred: 7.5
Worked tirelessly in midfield and was combative against West Brom’s physicality in the centre of the patch. Made way for Scott McTominay late in the match.
Juan Mata: 7.5
Did not have many moments other than earning the penalty when his strike hit Darnell Furlong’s hand inside the box. That’s what was needed to break the deadlock. Made way for Edinson Cavani just over the hour mark.
Bruno Fernandes: 8
Was lucky not to concede a spot-kick at the other end of the pitch before being denied by Sam Johnstone from the spot. But he was allowed to have a retake as Johnstone was off his line and the Portuguese made no mistake this time to make it 1-0 for the hosts.
Marcus Rashford: 7
Had his effort denied spectacularly by Johnstone. Created a number of opportunities from the wide, also cut inside time and again to operate more centrally. Made way for Donny van de Beek late in the match.
Anthony Martial: 6.5
Was denied by Johnstone early on and looked more purposeful when compared to his previous Premier League outings. Worked hard to build up moves from the deep but was not sharp enough to leave an impression
Substitutes
Edinson Cavani: 5.5
Offered little since coming on to replace Juan Mata.
Donny van de Beek: 6
Was calm and composed to see out the lead.
Scott McTominay: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
