Manchester United beat Brentford 1-0 at Old Trafford to leapfrog Tottenham into fourth place in the Premier League.
Brentford offered very little by way of attacking endeavour, and United cashed in when Marcel Sabitzer headed to Marcus Rashford, who cushioned a volley into the net for a first-half lead.
Antony and Rashford tried their luck in the second half, but Brentford held firm. Still, Erik ten Hag’s side ultimately won the game, with Rashford’s 27th-minute strike the difference between the two sides.
Dom Smith was at Old Trafford to rate the United players...
David De Gea — 7
Saved well from Kevin Schade by smothering well. Other than that, had little to do besides claim crosses.
Diogo Dalot — 7
Started ahead of Aaron Wan-Bisakka, who has been ill. Justified his selection with a positive display. Put Antony in behind the Brentford defence a couple of times.
Lisandro Martinez — 7
Good on the ball and decent in the air despite his lack of height. Played well.
Raphael Varane — 6
Dealt with what little Brentford threw at him comfortably enough.
Luke Shaw — 6
Only got 36 minutes before being taken off on his 250th United appearance as a precaution after he was holding his hamstring. Tough luck.
Marcel Sabitzer — 7
Assisted Rashford smartly for the goal and was generally tidy in possession. A smart signing.
Scott McTominay — 5
Booked early on. Not a particularly promising performance from the Scot.
Antony — 8
Didn’t find the net, but deserved to. Twisted defenders this way and that. Always willing to have a go.
Bruno Fernandes — 6
It’s a trope for a reason: he really does like to spend a lot of time complaining to referees. An off-night for one of United’s most capable players.
Jadon Sancho — 5
Quiet again from a man still yet to fully ingratiate himself with the Red Devils faithful.
Marcus Rashford — 8
Magnificent, mercurial performance from a player who has scored more Premier League goals than anyone else since the World Cup. Ran at defenders with purpose and didn’t hesistate to shoot. Scored the game’s only goal.
Subs:
Tyrell Malacia (Shaw, 37’) — 7
A really mature and positive display from the first-half substitute. Didn’t turn back to his centre-backs when he had possession. Looked ahead of him and either played or ran forward..
Fred (Sabitzer, 71’) — 6
No frills, no spills.
Anthony Martial (Sancho, 71’) — 6
United fans will be pleased to see him back. Didn’t really get into the game.
Victor Lindelof (Antony, 86’) — N/A
Subs not used: Butland, Maguire, Weghorst, Pellistri, Wan-Bissaka
