---

September 14, 2024

Manchester United Boost Spirits with Comfortable Win Over 10-Man Southampton – EPL

Manchester United relieved manager Erik ten Hag by securing a 3-0 victory at Southampton on Saturday, thanks to goals from Matthijs de Ligt, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho.

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

Manchester United offered much-needed relief to manager Erik ten Hag with a 3-0 victory at Southampton on Saturday, with goals coming from Matthijs de Ligt, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho. Despite the final scoreline, United faced significant pressure early in the match, and things could have unfolded quite differently had Andre Onana not stepped up to save Cameron Archer’s penalty when the game was still tied at 0-0. De Ligt’s opening goal marked his first for the club. It was pivotal in shifting the momentum just before halftime, while Rashford’s Rashford’s long-awaited goal, his first in six months, added to the visitor’s confidence. The situation for Southampton worsened when captain Jack Stephens was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Garnacho, who ultimately sealed the victory with a goal in stoppage time, further highlighting the home side’s struggles.

Southampton still needs a point after four matches returning to the Premier League as they struggle to find their footing in the competitive league. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s second-season victory boosts their confidence and propels them to eighth place in the standings. This result reflects United’s growing momentum as it seeks to improve its position after a challenging start to the campaign.

Ten Hag began the season under considerable scrutiny, having recently undergone an internal review of his position in May. This assessment followed a disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season, which raised questions about his management and tactics. The pressure was palpable as he sought to prove himself and demonstrate that he could lead the team to a more robust performance in the current campaign.

Consecutive losses to Brighton and Liverpool before the international break heightened the pressure on the Dutchman, and the Red Devils had to rely on some fortune during the early moments at St. Mary’s.

After Casemiro’s dismal performance in the 3-0 loss to Liverpool, Ten Hag placed him on the bench. Meanwhile, new signing Manuel Ugarte also had to bide his time for his debut, coming on as a substitute in the second half.

United continued to struggle to assert control in midfield during the opening quarter and were grateful for Onana’s penalty save, which proved to be a pivotal moment in the match.

Southampton’s Southampton’s return to the top flight has been characterized by a missed opportunity to capitalize on several promising build-up plays.

Teenager Tyler Dibling made a notable impression in his first Premier League start, using his skill to draw Diogo Dalot into a reckless challenge within the penalty area.

However, Archer’s penalty lacked confidence, and Onana could deflect the shot before effortlessly gathering the striker’s follow-up header on the second attempt.

Just two minutes later, United took the lead when De Ligt moved past a challenging week with the Dutch national team to score his first goal for the club.

Ronald Koeman substituted the former Bayern Munich center-back at halftime after mistakes contributed to two German goals in a 2-2 Nations League draw in Amsterdam.

De Ligt rose to De Ligt gained recognition at Ajax under Ten Hag, who was vindicated in his decision to start the 25-year-old over Harry Maguire.

A quick corner caught Southampton off guard, and Bruno Fernandes’ cross found De Ligt perfectly, allowing him to head the ball into the bottom corner.

A quick corner caught Southampton off guard, and Bruno Fernandes’ cross accurately found De Ligt, who headed it into the bottom corner. 

To enhance their chances of survival, the Saints signed Aaron Ramsdale from Arsenal on the final day of the transfer window, and the England goalkeeper at least managed to limit the scoreline.

Rashford’s crucial goal was briefly postponed by a brilliant save from Ramsdale near his post. 

However, Rashford finally ended his goal drought since March in the 41st minute, as his low shot from outside the box curled into the far corner.

Ramsdale thwarted De Ligt’sLigt’s attempt for a second goal just before halftime, as United was poised to dominate. 

However, the second half was much more subdued. The visitors managed to keep Southampton at a distance until the home side’s frustration boiled over.

Stephens’ reckless lunge caught Garnacho on the knee, and he was justly punished with a straight red card.

The Argentine added to Southampton’s misery with a powerful finish from Dalot’s cross in the 96th minute.