Manchester United returned to winning ways with an impressive 3-2 comeback win over Roma at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.
The Red Devils went into the game on a nine-match winless streak, and they made the worst possible start against the Giallorossi yesterday.
A defensive lapse gifted Matias Soule the opening goal in the 11th minute. Donyell Malen doubled the lead from the penalty spot soon after.
United could have easily gone 3-0 down before the interval, but right-back Leny Yoro came up with a crucial clearance ahead of Rodrigo Mora.
The second half was a different picture. Bruno Fernandes reduced the deficit from the penalty spot.
He missed his first effort but fortunately scored from the retake.
Matheus Cunha capitalised on a defensive error from Roma’s Leonardo Balerdi to equalise before scoring a stunning winner in the 86th minute.
Cunha was the man of the moment at Old Trafford. He won the penalty to start with before changing the complexion of the game with two late goals.
Club graduate Shea Lacey also earned plenty of plaudits from the fans after a splendid cameo on the right wing, coming off the bench against the Giallorossi.
The 19-year-old replaced Amad Diallo in the 75th minute and played with a positive mindset, winning an impressive three out of four dribbles.
The youngster completed 100 percent of his passes, while winning four out of five duels contested.
He eventually made a big impact with a fine assist for Cunha’s winner. The Brazilian capitalised with a powerful strike to beat the goalkeeper at his near post.
Shortly after the game, Lacey took to Instagram to celebrate the comeback win with the faithful.
He wrote: ‘Until the very end. Thank you Old Trafford.’
Several United teammates were undoubtedly pleased with his sensational cameo, including Cunha, who highlighted his faith in the youngster’s ability.
He commented: ‘It shows how much I believe in you.’
Amad Diallo lacked the cutting edge in his end product against Roma. He was barely an attacking threat in the final third, and Lacey provided an upgrade.
Lacey was more direct in his dazzling cameo and showed why the club rate him highly with a fabulous pass to Cunha to seal the comeback win at home.
Amad has looked short in confidence with the lack of goal contributions, and it appears time for manager Michael Carrick to play Lacey as a starter on the right wing.
United host Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday before the international break.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com