Manchester United took on Championship side Watford at Old Trafford for their FA Cup’s Third Round fixture.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer promoted quite a few changes in his squad for United’s FA Cup tie. In fact, several less-used players got their chance to impress Ole, such as Donny Van de Beek and outcast Jesse Lingard.
The Red Devils couldn’t have had a better start as Scott McTominay hit the net in the first five minutes of the game. Alex Telles provided a wonder cross from the corner as United’s captain scored a header with a little help from the post.
It looked like it was going to be an easy night for the Red Devils. However, Watford gave them a serious run for their money. Although the Hornets didn’t have much ball possession, they managed to obtain more goal-scoring opportunities than their opponents.
The first half didn’t pack much action, with one of the only memorable moments being Eric Bailly’s injury. The center-back took Henderson’s knee to the head on an unlucky challenge. Although Bailly stepped out of the pitch on his feet, Solskjaer decided not to take any chances and sub him off.
We won’t lie to you, it was a bit of a dull match. Nevertheless, both Hornets and Red Devils had some things to get excited about. Watford’s forward Joao Pedro, recently returned from injury, delivered a wonderful performance. The Brazilian was United’s biggest menace, with Telles sometimes struggling to keep up with his pace.
Moreover, McTominay’s first match as a captain couldn’t have gone better. Not only did he score the match-winner, but he also looked solid as a rock when required to help the defense. Donny Van de Beek also displayed hints of his talent, especially with his unbelievable backheel pass for Juan Mata.
Manchester United will now move on in the FA Cup and continue having a shot at taking home the silverware.
Player ratings
Manchester United: Henderson (6), Williams (6), Bailly (5), Tuanzebe (6), Telles (7), Van de Beek (7), McTominay (8), Mata (7), Lingard (7), James (6), Greenwood (6).
Bench: Maguire (6), Martial (6), Rashford (7), Matic (5).
Watford: Bachmann (6), Navarro (7), Troost-Ekong (6), Sierralta (5), Masina (5), Zinckernagel (6), Hughes (7), Chalobah (6), Sarr (7), Pedro (8), Gray (6).
Bench: Ngakia (6), Sema (6), Wilmot (5), Hungbo (6), Philips (5).
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