3-2 at home to Newcastle

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The mood around Manchester United was lifted last night by 3 goals, some positive performances, glimmers of comebacks from injury, a win and a stirring post-match speech by manager Erik Ten Hag.

Erik didn't look, sound or act like a manager in danger of losing his job. My gut tells me that INEOS are going to back him to clear out a lot of players, encourage youth and bring in a few first team quality players.

Playing with a false 9, United looked solid and Newcastle looked a little bewildered and unsure of how to deal with the way the reds had set up. Fernandes was back from injury and buzzing around everywhere. Amad Diallo looked sharp and determined to make a mark. McTominay brought energy while Amrabat was solid.

United deservedly took the lead through a Kobbie Mainoo goal. The youngster found himself unmarked by the penalty spot following a Diallo run. He remained composed to slot the ball home.


Newcastle equalized shortly after half-time through Anthony Gordon. It was an impressive finish, latching on to a driven cross to leave Onana with no chance.

Diallo put United ahead on 57 minutes. A Bruno corner was half cleared to Diallo who was lurking unmarked towards the far end of the penalty box. He absolutely leathered it through a group of players for a stunning goal. What a hit.


Newcastle looked dangerous on the break. Amrabat dug deep to match 3 Newcastle players running through on goal, stretching out to block a shot. Onana saved well while one-on-one and earlier in the game, Casemiro headed clear from the goal-line. 

United played well though and had the luxury of bringing on Rashford, Hojlund and Martinez in a triple substitution. Within 2-minutes, the Dane had accepted a Fernandes pass, turned and taken on two defenders to shoot across the keeper and score.


After great despair, United have generated a positive vibe to take into the final match of the season, away to Brighton. Newcastle were disappointing. Eddie Howe looked flat at the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Erik Ten Hag cajoled players and supporters with a stirring speech in the centre circle. United will head to Wembley with a little more hope than we have held in previous weeks.

Could we?





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