Luton Town 1-2 Man United: 4 Wins in a Row!
In Saturday’s embargoed press conference, Erik ten Hag described his team as one that hasn’t yet turned the corner, but are back in the race for top four. Something that is a minimum requirement at Manchester United.
Today’s opponents, Luton Town haven’t hosted a League fixture against United for 32 years. A special occasion to behold for previous and new generations. Also one that may garner a few more nerves than usual. Most importantly, it was a chance for the away side to close the gap further on Tottenham Hotspur who were defeated 2-1 against Wolves. Another positive result following their momentous victory against Aston Villa was imperative.
Rob Edwards’ side endured the worst possible start to a game just 37 seconds in as Rasmus Højlund took full advantage of an Amari’i Bell’s miss hit back pass. Quite the uncharacteristic mistake that only made his side’s wound deeper once Alejandro Garnacho’s wayward strike was effectively rerouted for Højlund’s second goal in less than ten minutes. 6 goals in six successive league games.
Those in Kenilworth Road seemed destined to witness a footballing massacre score wise, last seen in Brighton’s dismantling of Sheffield United earlier that day, but fortunes were to flip in an instant. It was as if Luton had finally awoken from their sleep paralysis, in turn re energising their home support. Carlton Morris provided a much needed push forward as his goal back seemingly unsettled the entire Manchester United team who suddenly were being beaten physically and mentally no matter the duel. A theme that continued into the second half.
Games tend to open up when one team defends and another chases that illusive equaliser. Luton’s desire for more in turn presented golden transitional opportunities for those in red and white. Bruno Fernandes first had his strike sensationally blocked by an on loan Sambi Lokonga from Arsenal, and later in the proceedings Garnacho squandered another game clinching 1v1, with Thomas Kaminski getting all ball.
The Hatters enjoyed 59% of possession, also playing 130 more passes (517) than their “superior counterparts” which was pretty much their story of dominance. Ross Barkley’s looping header caused a late scare for Andre Onana and his defensive unit late on, only to clank off the wrong side of Manchester United’s temporary cross bar for said evening.
While the Red Devils walked away relatively unscathed once more, Luke Shaw seemed to have sustained an injury of sorts which will be revealed in depth once scans are completed and assessed. Erik ten Hag stated post match that it was not a knock. Far more serious than that based on initial assumptions. Luckily enough, his side will have the time to rest in preparation for an inconsistent Fulham team who on Saturday were beaten by Aston Villa, Manchester United’s opponents prior to this fixture.
The question that continues to be asked by many is how sustainable these performances will end up being moving forward? No doubt about it, stories can pivot much like turning a books page, but for now, focusing on results based form, there is a stark difference in comparison to the beginning of this campaign. Something that must continue to trend upwards.
How did you assess the game and each team’s performance? Have your say in the comment section, and feel free to follow my accounts on X, TikTok, and YouTube where I’ll be providing extra Man Utd content and updates. Provided the time, also check out my piece on the Africa Cup of Nations 2023 which ended not too long ago by clicking here.
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