Manchester United secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Newcastle after Patrick Dorgu’s first-half strike proved to be the difference despite an onslaught from the visitors
Manchester United climbed to fifth in the Premier League table following a 1-0 victory over Newcastle, thanks to a tactical switch by Ruben Amorim.
The Red Devils spent much of the second half on the back foot, putting up a staunch defensive effort to maintain their lead established before half-time.
The solitary goal came from an unexpected source. Patrick Dorgu capitalised on a partially cleared long throw, volleying it first-time with his left foot into the bottom corner from 16 yards out.
Here are the player ratings from the Daily Star Sport.
Senne Lammens: Made a solid save from Guimaraes in the first half and remained steady as Newcastle ramped up the pressure after the break. 7.
Diogo Dalot: Returned to his familiar right-back role and pushed forward in the second half. Was tested by Gordon and had to track back with Hall as United looked to secure their lead. 6.
Ayden Heaven: Starting ahead of Yoro was a vote of confidence from Amorim, and he performed well against Woltemade. His confidence seems to be returning after a period out of action. 8.
Lisandro Martinez: Won a header against Woltemade in the first half and rediscovered his passing form. Led the team as captain on his return and defended admirably. 8.
Luke Shaw: Made his first start at left-back in 18 months. Had a few shaky moments but overall coped well, successfully dealing with Murphy in the second half. 7.
Manuel Ugarte: A Cruyff turn in the first half epitomised the confidence with which United were playing. While still not exceptional in possession, he fought hard when off the ball. 6.
Casemiro: His substitution early in the second half was unexpected. Missed a promising chance and struggled to control the game after half-time. 6.
Patrick Dorgu: Scored his goal superbly and his confidence visibly soared afterwards. Worked hard defensively and continued to pose a threat on the attack. His best performance for United yet. 8.
Mason Mount: Set the pace with excellent pressing in the first half and some impressive link-up play. His potential injury would be a significant loss. 7.
Matheus Cunha: Energetic in the first half but found it difficult to impact the game in the second half. 7.
Benjamin Sesko: A marked improvement from recent performances. Struck the bar with his final touch of the game, held the ball well in the first half and appeared stronger. 7.
Substitutes:
Jack Fletcher: Initially taken aback by the speed and physicality of the match but adapted well. Made one good pass to set Dorgu up against Miley. 6.
Leny Yoro: Demonstrated good reading of the game at right-back and contributed to a solid defensive performance. 7.
Joshua Zirkzee: Saw little of the ball as United fell back. 6.
Tyrell Malacia: Didn’t have enough time to make an impact.
Tyler Fredricson: Didn’t have enough time to make an impact.
Unused substitutes: Bayindir, T Fletcher, Mantato, Lacey.
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