Premier League: United back to winning ways
Southampton 0 - 3 Manchester United
Matthijs de Ligt netted his first goal for Manchester United, helping Erik ten Hag's team secure a crucial Premier League victory over Southampton.
The Red Devils had entered the international break on a low note, following a heavy defeat to Liverpool, and were in dire need of a strong response upon their return.
After a shaky start, United found their rhythm, with Andre Onana’s penalty save from Cameron Archer proving a key moment. Shortly afterwards, they seized the advantage.
Summer signing De Ligt broke the deadlock, expertly heading into the bottom corner from a brilliant cross delivered by Bruno Fernandes.
Just six minutes later, United doubled their advantage when Marcus Rashford scored his first goal of the season, threading a low shot through a crowded box to find the net—his first since March.
The quickfire double appeared to take the wind out of Southampton's sails, allowing United to control the second half with relative ease.
Southampton’s woes deepened late on, as Jack Stephens was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Alejandro Garnacho.
Garnacho, coming on as a substitute, then capped off the win with a powerful finish into the top of the net in stoppage time, sealing a well-deserved victory for United.
Great atmosphere in the United end
There was a fantastic atmosphere in the United away end. The fans are clearly behind the manager and players despite some of the recent defeats.
Opinion: Rashford looked good
Marcus Rashford often receives a lot of criticism, most of which is over the top and unfair. Against Southampton, he looked superb. He threatened the Saints every time he went forward and was unlucky not to have scored a second.
The Manchester United boss would have been very happy with his performance. He will very important for him this season and will play a huge part if United have a successful season.
Opinion: Where next for Southampton?
It has been a miserable return to the Premier League for Southampton as defeat leaves them waiting for their first points of the season.
Manager Russell Martin is sticking steadfastly to the attractive style of football that got them promoted from the Championship, and they should have gained some reward for their excellent start to this game.
The hosts produced some slick build-up play, but that was undone by their inability to make it count in the final third and, at the highest level of English football, failure to be clinical can swiftly be punished. This was proven against The Red Devils.
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) September 14, 2024
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