Marcus Rashford finally broke his goal drought, netting his first for Manchester United since March, as the Red Devils secured a much-needed 3-0 victory over Southampton.
The match, which was more challenging in the opening stages, saw crucial moments swing in United’s favor, including a key penalty save by Andre Onana.
Cameron Archer’s missed penalty at 0-0 proved to be a turning point as Matthijs de Ligt headed United into the lead just moments later.
Rashford then doubled the advantage with a beautiful curling effort after receiving a well-placed pass from Amad Diallo on the left side of the penalty box, finding the net just four minutes before halftime.
The goal was a significant moment for Rashford, ending his prolonged goal-scoring drought and boosting United’s momentum.
Southampton had Aaron Ramsdale to thank for keeping the scoreline respectable as he produced several vital saves, denying United from extending their lead.
However, despite Ramsdale’s heroics, Southampton’s hopes of a comeback faded when Jack Stephens received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Alejandro Garnacho.
Reduced to 10 men, the Saints struggled to contain United’s attacking flow.
Garnacho made the most of his impact on the game, capping off United’s performance with a late goal in stoppage time. He finished from close range after Diogo Dalot sent a pinpoint low cross into the box, sealing a comfortable victory for Erik ten Hag’s side.
The win marked United’s second league triumph of the season, but Southampton’s struggles continued as they remained stuck at the bottom of the table with just one point to their name.
The match, which looked evenly contested for the first half-hour, saw United take control after Archer’s penalty miss.
Southampton failed to register another shot on target for the remainder of the game, and their defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed as they allowed United to take chances at will.
As the Saints’ resistance crumbled, there was little hope left for those backing Russell Martin’s men to retain their Premier League status.
Post-match, Matthijs de Ligt revealed he believed his substitution was only precautionary due to cramp, but with Lisandro Martinez limping off and Noussair Mazraoui exiting gingerly, United’s defensive injuries are becoming a growing concern.
Harry Maguire’s own lethargic display when he was substituted raised further alarm. By the end of the match, United had to rely on Casemiro to fill in at center back, a sight that undoubtedly triggered flashbacks of past defensive woes for many fans.
Looking ahead, Erik ten Hag will likely use their upcoming League Cup fixture against Barnsley as a chance to rest key players and rotate the squad.
With United’s Europa League campaign on the horizon, including a challenging tie against FC Twente, fixture congestion is about to intensify, making squad depth and fitness even more critical for the weeks to come.
