United progressed through to the fourth round of the FA Cup after their firm defense and a goal from Juan Mata proved to be good enough against Wolves.
After a boring, stalemate draw in the first game, both teams looked to get onto the score sheet and proceed towards the next round in the FA Cup draw. With United coming off a convincing win against Norwich City in the Premier League, the 13 time premier league holders looked to advance into the next round with a win against Wolves.
The first half reflected the game before as both teams went into halftime scoreless albeit the performance by Wolves and their ball control. With a goal disallowed by VAR for Wolves and with a string of luck, United scored the only goal of the game with Mata being at the end off it from Martial’s ball.
This will certainly augment United’s confidence going into their rival clash against the undefeated Liverpool on Sunday. However, it is not all sunshine and rainbows for United as they’re tormented with immense uncertainty from Rashford’s recent acquainted back injury. Ole’s decision to substitute Rashford certainly backfired and he is uncertain to be played against Liverpool as he limped off the field against Wolves. Rashford is a mere problem United face with United’s injury list now consisting of an extra member.
Nonetheless, the win against Wolves shines brightly in Ole’s favour, however he has still yet to put in a performance whereby United have a tactic played. Counter attacking seems to be his only option and games against Liverpool and City will be interesting to see whether Ole is put under scrutiny of a ‘sacking’ by Woodward or an uplift for his attitude with the players and a long awaited aim to solidify convincing performances.
Imad – 17/01/20
Manchester United 