Scott McTominay of Manchester United played a crucial role in securing a 2-1 victory against Chelsea at Old Trafford. His performance relieved the pressure on Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils’ management acknowledged the need for a strong performance. This recognition was especially crucial amid rumors of dressing room issues and 10 losses in 21 games.
Consequently, McTominay scored two goals, and with a goal from Cole Palmer in between, United earned three points. This propelled them back into the top six.
The game went back and forth, with both teams missing opportunities. Chelsea wasted good chances, and McTominay came close to scoring again. However, Palmer beautifully finished into the lower corner just before the first half ended. This equally tied the score.
About the Match: Manchester United vs Chelsea
In the first half, Chelsea had a tough time, facing numerous attacks on their goal by Robert Sanchez. Despite Sanchez making many saves, including one from a penalty by Bruno Fernandes, he couldn’t stop McTominay from scoring.
Moreover, even though Chelsea didn’t play well, they had chances in the first half. However, they often didn’t make good use of them. Simultaneously, things changed when Cole Palmer got a chance to be in a good position for the first time.
Palmer, who was playing at Old Trafford for the first time, skillfully carried the ball near the box. He waited patiently for an opportunity after a smart pass from Mykhailo Mudryk. Consequently, just before halftime, Palmer evened the scores. He gently nudged the ball into the opposite corner from 18 yards.
In the second half, with 20 minutes left, Alejandro Garnacho made an excellent cross to McTominay. This restored United’s lead after a less exciting first half. Furthermore, the home team, meeting Ten Hag’s expectations, had the opportunity to extend their lead.
However, they chose to settle for a meaningful win. In a crucial moment, the Portuguese attempted a penalty with his signature stop-and-start move. Robert Sanchez stopped the weak attempt.
On the other hand, Mykhailo Mudryk had a chance to put Chelsea in the lead. Unfortunately, his shot missed the post.
After 20 minutes, Scott McTominay seized an opportunity following a mistake by Chelsea in their half. He blasted the ball into the bottom corner. Therefore, this gave the hosts the opening goal they deserved.
Player of the Match: McTominay of Manchester United
This season, Manchester United faced challenges under Erik ten Hag. However, one player, Scott McTominay, consistently stepped up. Additionally, McTominay’s five goals in the Premier League played a crucial role.
After a mixed season start, he scored two goals in stoppage time. Making history and saving United from a potential home loss to Brentford.
Furthermore, he scored twice against Chelsea after a poor performance at Newcastle. He also opened the scoring in a close win over Sheffield United.
As the soon-to-be 27-year-old gets ready for another game on Friday. His remarkable efforts are putting United on the brink of a top-four comeback.
Consequently, securing wins against Bournemouth and Bayern Munich on Saturday could lead United to a strong standing in the table. This would prepare them for tough matches against Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
Therefore, McTominay consistently shining as the star of the show brings optimism. There’s hope that Manchester United can overcome these obstacles.
Ice Cole Palmer: Chelsea’s Player
While many were talking about one English player, another player is creating a strong impression for the upcoming summer’s Euros. Afterward, when he changed from playing for Manchester City to playing for Chelsea, there were some questions. However, it turns out he made a great decision.
Moreover, instead of just being another player at Manchester City, Palmer is now becoming the main player at his new club. Additionally, he already scored against City this season and now has a goal against his childhood club. Furthermore, what stands out even more is how well he finishes.
While other players missed their chances, Palmer, the talented kid from Wythenshawe, seemed calm and composed. Therefore, when Andre Onana tried to save the ball, Palmer was already celebrating in the corner.
Furthermore, it’s not just about scoring goals; Palmer is making other impressive plays too. Similarly, in the English national team, which already has talented players like Jude Bellingham, Palmer is rising as a star. Gareth Southgate might find it challenging to ignore him when selecting players for Germany.
Highlights of the Match: Manchester United vs Chelsea
United took 18 shots on goal before halftime. This marks the most Chelsea has faced in one half in the Premier League in 20 years. However, despite many attempts, they only managed to score one goal.
Furthermore, a VAR intervention granted a penalty after Enzo Fernandez stepped on Antony’s foot. Simultaneously, it gives the home side an excellent opportunity to open the scoring. However, Sanchez made a fantastic low save, stopping Bruno Fernandes’ penalty. Unfortunately, the opportunity was missed as Alejandro Garnacho couldn’t score from the rebound.
On the other hand, United’s aggressive attack left gaps for Chelsea to exploit on the counter-attack. Mykhailo Mudryk hit the outside of the post. Raheem Sterling missed a clear chance on goal because Mudryk made a poor pass. Furthermore, Sanchez made another important save from Garnacho’s strong shot. Antony’s goal drought continued as he shot weakly into the arms of the Spanish goalkeeper.
As a result, Chelsea and Sanchez’s defense was finally broken when McTominay scored his fifth goal of the season. This made him United’s top scorer in the Premier League.
Continuing their offensive efforts, United saw Garnacho’s curling effort narrowly miss the target. However, Garnacho played a crucial part in the winning goal. His cross was headed in by McTominay 21 minutes from time.
Despite having a chance for a hat-trick, McTominay missed wide with just Sanchez to beat.
Therefore, United’s missed chances allowed Chelsea an opportunity to tie the game late. Armando Broja’s header hit the crossbar, but Chelsea couldn’t score. Nonetheless, it would have been more than the Blues deserved. Pochettino struggled to turn Chelsea’s young talent into a cohesive unit.
