The final score at the Vitality Stadium, which was the Saturday’s lunchtime Premier League game between Bournemouth and Manchester United ended with the Red Devils taking home all three points, after a late goal from birthday boy, Marcus Rashford.
Some might argue, that the final result was not a true reflection of the game, as Bournemouth playing at home at the Vitality Stadium, controlled the game in the first half, as they continued from their previous games, with quick exchange of passes, that proved very difficult for the likes of Paul Pogba, Fred and Matic to cope with.
The Bournemouth players took control of the midfield, putting passes through pocket of spaces to penetrate the United defence, which eventually gave them the opening goal of the game, with a simple tap-in from Wilson as early as in the 11th minutes.
Coach Eddie’s side were the better side in the First Half, as they led Manchester United in all the stats. going into the Second Half.
Manchester United and Jose Mourinho, started the second on a more positive note, as they increased their pressing in the Second Half, forcing Bournemouth to their own system, which we have seen Manchester United do so well each time they are down going into the second half. It worked against Newcastle United, and almost worked against Chelsea, and Juventus, but due to the more experienced players in those teams, they could not come out tops in those games.
I must confess though, and although Manchester United were terrible to watch in the First Half, the changes made by Jose Mourinho taking out Mata and Fred for Rrashford and Herrera, totally changed the game for United, especially in the midfield where they have suffered in the First Half. Herrera even had some chances to put United ahead, put ,missed them all, while Begovic saved some too!
Also, Paul Pogba picked up his game in the second half, as he took over the responsibility, and that sole decision to step up to the play, led to a beautiful assist to Marcus Rashford for the winning goal, after Martial has brought them level in the 35th minutes in the First Half.
Still a lot of work to be done, as Manchester United when they are not defending or trying to stop their opponent from playing, look more vulnerable, and not pleasing to watch….congratulations to Rashford for the birthday goal, and for the three points, as Bournemouth will move on from today’s disappointment, and learn from it.