Manchester United secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Aston Villa, thanks to a late goal by super sub Scott McTominay.
Facing fellow Champions League hopefuls, the Red Devils knew they couldn’t afford to lose, especially with Unai Emery’s side holding a higher position in the standings and the possibility of extending their lead over United to 11 points.
United got off to a dream start with Rasmus Hojlund scoring early, but Villa responded strongly, equalizing in the second half through Douglas Luiz. The match hung in the balance until McTominay’s late header sealed the win for United.
Erik ten Hag celebrated his first Premier League away win in charge, and it was also the first time this season that United had managed to win four straight matches in all competitions.
The match saw Raphael Varane replacing the injured Lisandro Martinez in the United starting lineup. Despite the change, Ten Hag kept faith with the rest of the squad that secured a confidence-boosting win against West Ham.
United dominated the early proceedings, with Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho causing problems for Villa’s defense. Hojlund’s goal further added to Villa’s troubles, awakening the hosts from their slumber.
No player has more goals from the bench than Scott McTominay in the Premier League this season ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/3WY3LMGaRC
— Premier League (@premierleague) February 11, 2024
Villa responded with attempts from Jacob Ramsey and Leon Bailey, but it was John McGinn’s thunderous strike that forced a reaction save from United goalkeeper Andre Onana.
Despite Villa’s pressure, United continued to look dangerous, with Rashford and Garnacho posing threats in attack. However, Villa managed to equalize through Luiz in the second half, setting up a tense finale.
Both teams had chances to snatch a late winner, but it was United who ultimately prevailed. McTominay’s decisive header secured all three points for United, despite late attempts from Villa to salvage a draw.
🧁 Senin yang manis. Good night.#MUFC pic.twitter.com/wwSc02YDFK
— Manchester United (@ManUtd_ID) February 12, 2024