In a heartfelt tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson, the Stretford End chorused, “Every single one of us loves Alex Ferguson,” just two days after the passing of his beloved wife, Cathy. Although Sir Alex was absent, the tributes from the fans in the stands and the performance on the pitch would have surely warmed his heart.
Manchester United brought an end to a disheartening losing streak and avoided breaking unwanted records dating back to the era when Neville Chamberlain assumed office at No. 10 Downing Street. The team successfully averted a third successive home defeat, a feat not seen since October 1962, and a third successive home league defeat, last witnessed in February 1979. Brentford did not secure their first victory at Old Trafford since 1937.
In a mere four minutes, Manchester United ascended from 13th place in the Premier League table to the top half. While it may not be their intended final position, this win could serve as a crucial catalyst. Throughout the afternoon, manager Erik ten Hag appeared more agitated than ever in the technical area, anxiously checking his watch as time dwindled away. The Brentford fans taunted him with chants of “You’re getting sacked in the morning,” a prophecy that did not materialize.
As the game concluded and Bruno Fernandes lofted the ball into the area for one last time, Ten Hag celebrated with passion. United, basking in the joy of their first home league victory in six weeks, embarked on a victory lap of sorts at full-time. In the press box, the Brentford analysts buried their heads in their laptops. Despite Manchester United’s numerous last-minute goals over the past three decades, this was the first time they had been trailing beyond the 90th minute only to emerge victorious.
Scott McTominay’s header, which found the back of the net, released the tension that had been building all afternoon. Victor Lindelof expressed his frustration toward Jonny Evans and later directed it at any teammate within earshot. Diogo Dalot displayed his dismay at a slow-moving ball girl. Mason Mount, on the ball, signaled to Dalot to underlap, but when he eventually did, the ball never reached him.
Mount, wearing the ‘curse’ of the number seven, endured another disappointing day. The £60 million signing is still awaiting his first assist or goal in the Premier League and Champions League. Earlier in the day, the £40 million James Maddison inspired Tottenham to yet another victory. Regardless of the positional concerns United may have faced with Maddison, it appears they may have recruited the wrong English playmaker.
Marcus Rashford, their compatriot, had another trying day. With just one goal in 10 appearances for United this season, Rashford’s struggles continue, and his removal in the 63rd minute received almost as much applause as Alejandro Garnacho’s entrance. Rashford garnered groans for his reluctance to engage in challenges once again.