Patrick Dorgu scored a brilliant volley as Manchester United beat Newcastle 1-0 to move up to fifth in the Premier League table and a number of stars caught the eye
Manchester United climbed to fifth in the Premier League standings following a 1-0 victory over Newcastle, thanks to a tactical switch by Ruben Amorim. Despite being under pressure for much of the second half, United managed to maintain their narrow lead for more than an hour.
The solitary goal came from an unexpected avenue. Patrick Dorgu capitalised on a partially cleared long throw, volleying it into the bottom corner from just inside the Newcastle box to score what proved to be the winner. United also hit the woodwork through Benjamin Sesko, but saw their opponents do the same when Lewis Hall went close.
In the end, a significant rearguard action was required. United haven’t been known for their clean sheets this season so this will have felt all the more significant.
Now it’s time for Amorim’s side to take their win forward and get a run of results after some unlikely heroes stepped up. Here are our player ratings after The Red Devils dug deep.
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Senne Lammens – 7
Made a solid save from Bruno Guimaraes in the first half and remained steady as Newcastle ramped up the pressure after the break.
Diogo Dalot – 6
Returned to his familiar right-back role and joined the attack in the second half. He was tested by Anthony Gordon and had to track back to contain Lewis Hall as United aimed to preserve their lead.
Ayden Heaven – 7
Starting Heaven ahead of Leny Yoro was a vote of confidence from Amorim and he performed well against Nick Woltemade. His confidence seems to be returning after a period out of action.
Lisandro Martinez – 8
Won a header against Woltemade in the first half and rediscovered his passing form. Named captain upon his return and defended admirably.
Luke Shaw – 6
His first start at left-back in 18 months after an extended spell as one of Amorim’s three centre-backs. Had a few shaky moments but overall coped well and managed to keep Jacob Murphy at bay in the second half.
Manuel Ugarte – 6
His Cruyff turn in the first half epitomised the confidence with which United were playing. Although his possession play could still improve, he fought hard when not in control of the ball.
Casemiro – 6
The Brazilian’s substitution early in the second half was unexpected. He missed a promising opportunity early on and failed to dominate the game post-interval.
Patrick Dorgu – 8
Scored his goal in some style and his confidence visibly soared afterwards. He was diligent in defence and continued to pose a threat when attacking. His best performance for United yet.
Mason Mount – 7
Once again, he set the pace with excellent pressing in the first half and some great link-up play. If he’s now out injured, as feared, it would be a significant loss.
Matheus Cunha – 7
He was dynamic in the first half but struggled to make as much of an impact after the break.
Benjamin Sesko – 7
A marked improvement from recent performances. He hit the bar with his last touch of the game but held the ball well in the first half and appeared stronger.
Substitutes:.
Jack Fletcher – 6
Initially taken aback by the game’s speed and physicality, but he adjusted well. He made one good pass to put Dorgu behind Miley.
Leny Yoro – 7
Demonstrated good game-reading skills at right-back and contributed to a solid defensive effort.
Joshua Zirkzee – 6
Saw little of the ball as United fell back.
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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