At Old Trafford, Manchester United overcame a late deficit to defeat Brentford and relieve manager Erik ten Hag’s burden.
Ethan Pinnock’s questionable injury-time header put United behind at halftime as Matthijs de Ligt was off the field receiving treatment for a head wound.
However, Alejandro Garnacho put an end to the home team’s 316-minute goal drought in the Premier League at the beginning of the second half by masterfully finishing a cross from Marcus Rashford on his first attempt.
In the 62nd minute, Rasmus Hojlund, a striker for the home team, secured victory by using the outside of his boot to latch onto Bruno Fernandes’ incredible flicked pass. He then coolly chipped the ball over Brentford goalie Mark Flekken, who slid out to block it.
It wasn’t quite as thrilling as it was when Brentford’s chances of a first victory in this stadium since 1937 were dashed 12 months ago by Scott McTominay’s injury-time double.
But perhaps this victory holds greater significance for Ten Hag.
Although United began the game in the 14th position, any outcome other than success would feed criticism of Ten Hag ahead of Thursday’s Europa League trip to Fenerbahce, the Dutchman accused the media of fabricating “fairytales and lies” over his position.
