Manchester United extended their winning streak in the Premier League to three consecutive victories after beating Watford 4-2 at Vicarage Road.
Ashley Young scored a first-half brace to put Manchester United in the lead and Anthony Martial extended it afterwards. Watford came back in the second half. They scored two goals in quick succession through Troy Deeney’s penalty kick and Doucoure’s header. However, Jesse Lingard managed to put things to bed just few minutes afterwards and seal another three points for the Reds.
Ashley Young Is On Fire
This was an incredible night for the 32-year old. On the evening, Young played as a left-wing back in a 3-5-2 formation. However, his performance resembled that of a proper winger. The first goal was a thing of beauty to bury it from the first touch, after Lingard found him on the left-hand side.
And what should be said about the second goal? A free-kick that really reminded everyone at the stadium of David Beckham. It was a perfectly struck shot with a lot of verve, curling into the top corner of Gomes’ goal.
Lukaku Provides For Others
Romelu Lukaku failed to score once again. This was a match in which Man United scored with ease, yet the Belgian was not on the scoresheet. However, he provided an assist for Martial’s goal. It was a lovely lay-off for the Frenchman to pick it up and run past Watford defenders, before scoring into the bottom corner.
Lukaku also had a good game overall. He made two key passes, alongside the assist, and also completed two take-ons. His shooting seemed decent on the night, and was also typically strong in duels against Watford defenders, winning six out of 12. There are positive things from his display tonight, but the goals is what Lukaku needs the most.
Manchester United Conceding Away From Home
This is now becoming an occurrence. Manchester United have conceded in four of the last five away matches in all competitions. The only team not to score in that process were Swansea City in the League Cup and Huddersfield and Watford managed to put two goals past David De Gea.
Of course, it is expected to concede more goals away from Old Trafford. Yet the quality of the teams is not of the highest levels. Only very strong team from those five were Chelsea, while the finish of the Basel match slightly resembled the finish against Watford. Only this time United already had a three-goal lead.
Lingard Taking His Chances
This was a well-rounded high-quality display from the Englishman. Lingard started the match superbly, assisting Young for the opener and then finishing the Hornets off after a great solo run.
It was a match in which Lingard really made an impact. Mourinho will now have to juggle with his attacking-minded players even more. Marcus Rashford only got to play 25 minutes and with Martial and Lingard playing this well, it is not a surprise.
Lingard had another big chance during the match. He also made staggering six key passes and completed all three of his dribbles. Watford simply could not keep up with him tonight.
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