Manchester United keep up great performance despite draw with Leeds
Manchester United failed to take all three points against Leeds United, but good run of form makes fans less apprehensive
In a crucial duel for the pretensions of both teams in this final stretch of the Premier League, Manchester United hosted Leeds United at Old Trafford in a late match for the 9th matchweek of the Premier League.
Manager Erik ten Hag promoted first start to Sabitzer as the big change in the line-up from the 2-1 win against Crystal Palace. The Bayern Munich loanee replaces the suspended Casemiro. Another news was Dalot’s first Premier League start since November.
At the other end, Leeds United had two changes from their defeat against Nottingham Forest. McKennie makes his first start following his loan move from Juventus, while Koch returned in defence.
Leeds United withstood first-half pressure
In the very first minute, Manchester United’s claims of control were shattered due to Gnoto’s early goal. With less than 60 seconds, Bruno Fernandes lost possession and Gnoto plays a one-two with Bamford before drilling a low 20-yard shot beyond De Gea’s.
The visitors had more chances early on, but the Red Devils managed to regain control with 70¨% possession and 11 shots on goal, receiving support from the fans before the break precisely for their attacking display.
Still, it should be noted that Leeds United avoided more dangerous scoring chances in their defensive field and managed to salvage a partial draw before the break.
Manchester United tried hard to draw level, but could not get the win
The start of the second half had a similar script with Leeds United scoring a second goal just three minutes after the break. Man United are unable to clear from a corner and Gnonto feeds Summerville. The ball bounced off Varane and prevented David De Gea’s save.
However, Manchester United were able to turn their attacking power into goals and sought an equaliser. In the 62nd minute, Pellistri immediately involved as he gives chase down the right as he released Dalot on the cross to find Rashford on a header past Meslier.
Eight minutes later, in a lucky move, the ball ricochets for Sancho inside the area after Luke Shaw’s initial attempt. The winger takes a touch, before neatly guiding a shot into the far corner.
The Red Devils managed 29 shots in total and high pressure, occupying the final third from the start against a Leeds United side still in trouble this season, close to the relegation zone. Even though they suffered a lot, they snatched a more important draw that could be crucial to avoid a tragic end to the season.