Midfielder Scott McTominay came on as a substitute and scored a late goal to help Man Utd beat host Aston Villa 2-1 in round 24 of the Premier League.
McTominay is worthy of being called Man Utd's new super sub, as he has scored or assisted in each of his last three matches since coming on. His goal this time brought the home team three points, in a match considered "six points". Coach Erik ten Hag's team reduced the gap with fifth-placed Aston Villa to five points, with 14 rounds left in the season.
McTominay and Garnacho embrace Man Utd fans celebrating the winning goal after a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park, Birmingham, round 24 of the Premier League on the evening of February 11, 2024. Photo: PA
In the 86th minute, midfielder Kobbie Mainoo broke free down the right, received a high pass from centre-back Raphael Varane, then laid it back for defender Diogo Dalot to cross in. McTominay, who is 1.93m tall, rushed in and pressed Matty Cash, before heading the ball past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. This was his third goal after the 85th minute in the Premier League this season, and his fourth as a substitute, stats that no one else has bettered.
McTominay continues to lead the Man Utd scoring charts in the Premier League this season, with seven goals. However, striker Rasmus Hojlund is improving his performance, having scored in all five of his last Premier League games. Whether Man Utd can compete for the Top 4 or not will depend largely on Hojlund's form in the coming time.
Hojlund scored his first Premier League goal with a volley in a 3-2 win over Aston Villa at Old Trafford on December 26. This time, he continued to cause sadness for the Villa Park team. In the 17th minute, Bruno Fernandes kicked a corner from the right for Harry Maguire to jump the highest and head the ball towards the goal. The ball flew right to where Hojlund was waiting, for the 21-year-old striker to connect between the legs of goalkeeper Martinez, opening the score.
Hojlund (left) celebrates the opening goal with Garnacho. Photo: Reuters
Maguire was outstanding, not only with his assist, but also with seven successful aerial duels. The 31-year-old centre-back scored points when England manager Gareth Southgate was in attendance. However, every time the cameras panned to Southgate, the Villa Park stands erupted in whistles. He won the League Cup with Aston Villa in 1996 as a player, but insisted on leaving in 2001.
Villa Park spectators also enjoyed the joy of the goal, when midfielder Douglas Luiz scored from close range to equalize 1-1 in the 67th minute, from a pass from Leon Bailey on the right. After the ball entered the net, Luiz shook his shoulders repeatedly in celebration right in front of goalkeeper Andre Onana.
Douglas Luiz (No. 6) equalized 1-1 for Aston Villa. Photo: Reuters
However, McTominay's moment of brilliance left Luiz with little joy. After the Scottish midfielder scored the decisive goal, coach Unai Emery screamed and kicked forward. At the same time, McTominay, Hojlund and Garnacho ran into the away crowd to hug each other in celebration.
Man Utd have won four games in a row in all competitions and can improve their record with games against Luton, Fulham and Nottingham Forest in their next three games. They then play the Manchester derby against Man City on 3 March.
Xuan Binh
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