Manchester United suffered their sixth defeat of the Premier League campaign after a lacklustre performance against Newcastle United at St James’ Park yesterday.
The Red Devils were dominated by the Magpies from the off and they struggled to gain control over the course of the game. The hosts won by a solitary goal but the margin of defeat could have been wider.
There were a number of stars who failed to turn up for the occasion including Marcus Rashford and Diogo Dalot, but Harry Maguire was one of those who tried to keep the Magpies’ attack at bay.
The €20 million-rated star has been an undisputed starter in the right centre-back role over the past month. Against Wolves, he was efficient at the back with 61 touches, making three vital blocks.
Aside from this, he won three tackles and six duels alongside three clearances. The centre-back also made the most number of interceptions (3) but it was insufficient to deliver a victory in the end.
Antony almost scored a surprise equaliser at the death for the visitors, but the goal was chalked off after Maguire got in the way of the shot from an offside position.
The Red Devils were always anticipated to face a tough challenge at Newcastle on the road, but no one would have have expected the Magpies to dominate the proceedings over 90 minutes.
United had eight attempts on goal compared to the Magpies’ 22 on the night. They restricted the hosts to just four shots on target but they were pegged back in their own half for most of the game.
The defeat sees United drop to seventh in the league standings, four points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa, who have a game in hand against Bournemouth which will be played this afternoon.
Erik ten Hag’s side have no time to ponder over the result and need to refocus with games coming thick and fast. They host Chelsea in the Premier League on Wednesday night.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
