Manchester United shared the spoils against Arsenal at Old Trafford in a spirited performance that finished 1-1 for a very well-deserved point.
The match started predictably as Man Utd ceded possession and territory to form a deep block and repel Arsenal even though it came at the cost of their own threat.
That was until the stroke of half-time when Bruno Fernandes scored a perfect free-kick to send United a goal up against the run of play.
United created even more chances to double their lead but were ultimately undone late on when Declan Rice hit it from the edge of the box to make it 1-1.
United had a strong response and looked more likely to grab the winner but it remained a case of “nearly” as an undermanned side fought to grab a point against Arsenal.
Photo by Alex Livesey - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Livesey – Danehouse/Getty Images
Here’s how the players rated-
Cheered sarcastically by Arsenal fans due to his aimless kicking but improved with some good saves.
Did well on the left of the back three after shaking off an early knock. Cautiously taken off at half-time.
Almost a nightmare start with a mix-up but grew in form as time went on. Crucial last-ditch interventions.
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Started in the central spot and failed to bring any physicality to it.
Not suited to an adventurous wing-back role but far improved in the second half.
Same as Mazraoui but in even worse circumstances since left is not his ideal side. Created Mazraoui’s chance.
Absolutely magic free-kick to give United a shock lead. Can’t be given enough credit for what he drags this team to.
Involved in the nightmare start with De Ligt but fared well afterwards.
No line-breaking passes or calm retention, which is what he was selected for. Overrun easily.
Tried to create something every time he was on the ball with forward runs. Made everything happen.
Got the Rasmus Hojlund experience as he was left to feed off scraps. Almost scored with a slick finish.
Substitutes
Brilliant after coming on as he repelled everything that came his way with positioning and physicality.
Added energy in place of Eriksen when Man Utd most needed it.
Got on the end of two guilt-edged chances to win it but fluffed both. Devoid of confidence.