A win yesterday would've took Manchester United to the 3rd spot in the PL table, but a last-gasp 96th minute equaliser by Obafemi gave a massive blow to Manchester United's ambition to finish inside the top 4.
United were almost there to finish 3rd after Martial's goal in the 23rd minute gave them a 2-1 lead, but a shocking second half performance and a good fight back by the Saints resulted in the draw, which more or less felt like a defeat to the players and the fans as well.
A busy start from the Saints led to them taking the lead in the 12th minute due to some awful carelessness from Pogba, but United hit back as Anthony Martial tees up Marcus Rashford to make in 1-1 after just 8 minutes of conceding the first goal.
A brilliant solo goal from Martial assisted by Bruno just 2 and a half minutes later took the hosts to a 2-1 lead, which also marked 50th goal for Manchester United by the Frenchman. The only french player after Eric Cantona to score 50+ goals, what a company to be in.
United had lots of chances to slot in the 3rd goal and have a good cushioned 2 goal lead, but they failed to capitalize on their chances and Obafemi scored right at the very end, leaving the Red's fifth in the table.
Tired legs and fatigue may have cost us.
Paul pogba's mistake led to the opening goal, wherein he just did not look over his shoulder, was dispossessed by 3 of Saint's players and they scored. Again a few minutes later he was dispossessed the same way. He just looked tired, even though his ball was crucial for United's first goal, but the Frenchman was not his usual.
Bruno too was kept quiet by the Saint's midfielders completely closing down the channel between Matic and the creative midfielders. Bruno even on his worst day in EPL gave one assist which takes his tally to 7. Most assists for Manchester United this season and he's only played like 11 matches. A phenomenal talent.
Martial on Fire
This is Anthony Martial's 8th goal since Bruno came in and again the partnership is turning into something to be vary of for the opponents. With 1 goal and 1 assist Martial can be judged to be the Man of the Match. He was very much in the game, winning tackles, making them runs, scoring goals, assisting a few. He has really been on a song since the restart and no has 21 goals this season. Once considered aloof, the Frenchman has found much needed tenacity.
The Second half drama
Manchester United went into half time with greatest of confidence thinking of scoring a goal or two and putting this match to bed. But credit to the Saints, the way they fought showed that they had a belief of getting something from this game.
The goal was visibly coming and everyone could see it the way they played, 7 shots and 3 on target compared to United's 3 shots and 1 on target in the second half. Manchester United seemed to just switch off from their game and allowed the opposition to play in. The constant high press did not allow United any rhythm in the second half whatsoever, it could've been worse for United but a brilliant save by David off Redmond kept them into the game. A head injury to Brandon and United had to defend the last corner with just 10 players did not help their cause.
We cannot always rely on Pogba and Bruno, they are going to have off days and as a team we should find a solution for them. Bruno had a comparatively quiet evening and so did Pogba, we'll should be ready for days like these and come out even stronger.
The way Southampton played in that second half, they deserved a draw and the result can be judged to be fair for both the teams.
Rotation is Important
Team rotation is utmost important now because, this technically would be season defining week for Ole and his team. With Chelsea lurking behind for the FA cup final on Sunday, Crystal palace just 2 days before on Friday, a busy busy week and a week where results matter the most.
Manchester United need to rotate and keep the players fresh. But I don't think Ole has the quality he needs on the bench, and he's compelled to start the same 11. The whole team post 60 mins looked tired and fatigued against a quick, pacy Southampton. Matic needs rest, he cannot play every 2 days.
But the fixtures and the importance of those fixtures might compel Ole to play the same starting 11. Let's hope we can cruise home safely with a champions league spot under our belt. Because this team deserves it after 18 unbeaten games and the hard-work they've put in which can visibly be seen. They look like lads enjoying football.
What's Next
Manchester United face Crystal Palace at Selhurst park. A must win game. In fact every game has become a must win game to finish into the top 4.
With Manchester City ban being upheld, the race has become even more competitive with just 2 places and almost 4 teams competing for it.
If Manchester United win all their remaining games, the last one being against Leicester, they still can finish 3rd/4th. Chelsea has the most challenging fixtures of the remaining three, one against the champions and one against wolves.
It could all come down to the final match Manchester United vs Leicester City. It would be the most fitting end to a season full of ups and downs for all the teams.
I hope you're enjoying reading these blogs.
Stay Tuned! Stay safe!
Adios! Cheers!
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