Manchester United have managed to get back to winning ways with a hard-fought victory over Newcastle United.
It’s been a dreary end to a terrible season for Manchester United but the last game at Old Trafford of the campaign at least ended in cheers rather than floods, both of tears and of rain.
A spirited and exciting match against Newcastle ended 3-2 to Erik ten Hag’s side with Kobbie Maino and Amad grabbing goals either side of an Anthony Gordon equaliser before Rasmus Hojlund added a third.
Lewis Hall scored a late screamer to make the final minutes nervy but United managed to hold on for the three points.
Here’s how the players rated.
Andre Onana – 7
Two crucial saves to keep United in the lead at 2-1 which ensured the three points and dependable when claiming crosses or dangerous passes into his box.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 6
Given a hard time by Anthony Gordon, though he did win his fair share of duels. Gifted Isak a great opportunity after overrunning the ball and presenting a two-on-one chance to the Magpies but otherwise steady.
Casemiro – 7
It’s been a difficult few games for Casemiro after his mistakes against Crystal Palace and Arsenal but he had been playing well at centre-back beforehand and returned to that against Newcastle.
There was a bizarre piece of play when he ran out and lost the ball with a lazy pass which left the defence exposed. But elsewhere there were several perfectly timed blocks and challenges as well as one clearance off the line.
Jonny Evans – 6
A quietly comfortable game which is a compliment given he was up against Isak.
Diogo Dalot – 5
Got caught inside as Newcastle came down his flank to set up the leveller. Not much impact going forward.
Kobbie Mainoo – 7
Kobbie Mainoo enjoyed one of his best games in months with a mobile partner alongside him who allowed him to get forward and influence the game.
Excellent movement to find space in the box and a confident stroke into the net for the opener.
Sofyan Amrabat – 7
With two last-gasp, goal-saving challenges, constant battling and a balancing effect in midfield, Sofyan Amrabat showed why he might have deserved some more chances in the team during his loan stint.
It was his best display in a United shirt, yet, multiple occasions of miss control that allowed Newcastle to charge through on goal – one for which he was lucky not to give away a penalty and another for the equaliser – was a reminder of why opportunities have been few and far between.
Amad – 8
Created the opening goal with a mazy run and scored the second with a clean, thumping strike. Amad found himself in good areas, especially on corners, all game and got his reward with the great goal.
Lively and hard-working on the right throughout and has already surpassed Antony’s goal contributions in the league. Should have been given more starts this season.
Scott McTominay – 6
Though his lack of technical proficiency on the ball remains noticeable, Scott McTominay’s sheer presence, energy and urgency just make United a more active and dangerous team.
Should have thrown himself at a beautiful Fernandes cross into the box, though.
Alejandro Garnacho – 7
Signs of fatigue are beginning to show in his 36th start in success but Alejandro Garnacho remains a willing runner always looking to beat defenders and provide a threat.
The winger was a bag of tricks and provided several exciting moments.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
Back with a vengeance and gave more proof, as if it was needed, that he’s United’s best and most important player. A driving force going forward and involved in everything positive, including two of the goals.
Playing in a false-9 suited Bruno Fernandes as it allowed him to move deep and dictate play, with several nonchalantly great lofted passes over the top for the wingers to latch on to.
Substitutes
Lisandro Martinez – 6
Made his third long-awaited return of the season and was immediately back into making uncompromising challenges and winning balls.
Marcus Rashford – 5
A threat with his few touches on the ball.
Rasmus Hojlund – 7
A fantastic, crucial third goal with his first touches on the ball. Rasmus Hojlund held off a challenge and found the bottom corner with a precise striker. A much-needed confidence booster.
Could have done better with a late counter-attack, though.
Christian Eriksen – 5
Kept hold of possession late on.