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It was a candy ending to Manchester United’s disappointing Premier League season as they defeated Brighton and Hove Albion 2-0 on the Amex Stadium this afternoon.
But once more, it was an understated efficiency from Man United, with Erik ten Hag’s staff wanting despondent all through.
With simply 45% possession and 11 photographs in comparison with Brighton’s 17, United’s clear goalscoring alternatives had been few and much between, significantly throughout the first half after they appeared to lack any attacking creativity.
Within the later phases of the second half, they lastly got here to life, capitalising on some errors by the house aspect to carve out an unlikely victory.
Regardless of his transient cameo, it was Rasmus Hojlund who drove United’s assault.
Making simply 19 touches after approaching within the sixtieth minute, the Danish striker proved that you just don’t want a whole lot of time on the ball as a way to make a recreation altering affect.
Hojlund confirmed respectable physicality, profitable two out of three aerial duels in addition to 5 of his six floor duels. He additionally tracked again to make one deal with, serving to United to maintain a clear sheet.
Finishing eight out of 12 passes for a 67% accuracy, the 21 yr previous made one key go as effectively.
Hojlund’s first standout second got here simply 13 minutes into his cameo. When Casemiro lobbed the ball upfield from close to the midway line, Hojlund tapped the ball to Diogo Dalot, who was in a position to end simply at hand United a late lead.
Within the 88th minute, it was Hojlund’s time to shine. After a fast one-two with Christian Eriksen, he dribbled previous Billy Gilmour and Igor Julio and slotted the ball into the again of the web to seal United’s win.
Apart from his spectacular objective, Hojlund’s dribbling didn’t falter all through the match. He accomplished all 4 of his tried dribbles.
Provided that that is the second consecutive match the place he’s scored off the bench following Wednesday’s 3-2 win over Newcastle United, it appears clear that some relaxation is what Hojlund wanted as a way to get again to his most interesting type.
With 10 Premier League objectives this season, he has confirmed his price in addition to how harmful he could be when at the most effective of his recreation.
In the end, Hojlund could play a vital position within the FA Cup closing subsequent Saturday ought to United have the ability to pull off an unlikely shock in opposition to title favourites Manchester Metropolis. With the suitable administration, Hojlund might craft a vivid future for himself at Outdated Trafford.
(Stats by way of Sofascore)
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