In a nail-biting encounter against underdog Newport County, Manchester United managed to secure a 4-2 victory and advance to the fifth round of the FA Cup. The match was far from smooth, and United had to reclaim a lead they had carelessly surrendered.
The game kicked off with impressive goals from Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo within the first 13 minutes, providing United with an ideal start. However, complacency set in, allowing the League Two side to stage a comeback.
Bryn Morris’s goal before halftime injected life into Newport, and Will Evans’ equalizer fueled dreams of an upset. The Newport fans could almost taste a replay at Old Trafford, but United’s quality ultimately made the difference.
Antony restored the lead in the 68th minute with a well-guided shot after Luke Shaw’s attempt struck the post. Rasmus Hojlund sealed the victory in added time, allowing the visitors to breathe a sigh of relief.
Goalkeeper & Defence
- Altay Bayindir (5/10): Debut disappointment, caught out and should have commanded the box better.
- Diogo Dalot (7/10): Showed determination and fought hard.
- Raphael Varane (5/10): Struggled against Evans for the equalizer.
- Lisandro Martinez (6/10): Efficient use of the ball, setting up Garnacho’s crossbar hit.
- Luke Shaw (6/10): Tested but quality helped United reassert.
Attack
- Antony (6/10): A paradoxical game, contributing with an assist and a goal despite some clumsiness.
- Rasmus Hojlund (6/10): Improved as the game progressed and made amends for earlier missed chances.
- Alejandro Garnacho (7/10): Consistently dangerous and ready to make things happen.
Subs & Manager
- Scott McTominay (N/A): Added a focal point in attack, paying off for United.
- Willy Kambwala (N/A): Contributed to seeing out the result with a competent cameo.
- Omari Forson (N/A): Made a rare appearance in the 88th minute.
- Harry Maguire (N/A): Returned from a six-week injury layoff in the 89th minute.
- Jonny Evans (N/A): Brought on in the 96th minute.
Manager: Erik ten Hag (5/10)
- Another unconvincing performance, highlighting vulnerability to throwing away leads.
