Marcus Rashford scored a brace as Manchester United beat Chelsea 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.
A stunning free-kick in the second half won the game after Chelsea had equalised his penalty.
Here is a look at five things we learned as we racked up a third successive away win…
Penalty hoodoo temporarily fixed
Penalties have been a pain for United this season. Three separate players have missed, Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial.
Rashford and Martial both missed against Norwich, but last night United’s opener came from the spot.
Marcus Rashford stepped up to score his second penalty from four attempts this season, and his second against Chelsea.
It would be naïve to say United’s penalty problems are fixed, but it was important for Rashford to get back on track after two consecutive misses.
He certainly isn’t afraid, and next time we all might have a bit more confidence when he steps up. This was a step in the right direction, and strong management from Solskjaer to stand by Rashford.
Three at the back may have a short shelf life
United’s personnel at the moment is best suited to playing with three central defenders and the results have been impressive since making the switch.
Chelsea didn’t get a look in during the first half, they didn’t even manage a shot on target until the first hour.
Michy Batshuayi’s goal was a piece of individual brilliance, a long range shot, but United should have closed him down better.
United shifted formation in the second half after the equaliser as he went for the win, moving to four at the back.
That was a tactical change as Solskjaer gambled, it did not detract from the fact United got the shape at the back right to start with.
Despite this, Solskjaer’s decision to move away from it showed that he is not tied to the formation. It could have a short shelf life. Adaptability is key.
United want silverware
Perhaps fearing embarrassment if Chelsea named a strong side and we named a weakened one, Solskjaer called the Blues’ bluff by picking a strong team.
It was a statement of intent, with Marcus Rashford and Harry Maguire both included in the starting XI.
The Carabao Cup is a chance for silverware, and winning a trophy would be absolutely huge for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
On a night where Arsenal and Wolves got knocked out, the competition is opening up a little for us.
United have a decent chance, now into the quarter-finals. The draw will be made on Thursday morning.
Belief is everything
If there is one thing which has prompted more criticism for Marcus Rashford than anything, it has been his set pieces.
Rashford frequently steps up, and misses the target or hits the wall.
To be fair, his self belief has never dwindled. Tonight we saw why. He second goal was a free-kick he had no right to score. It was a truly special striker.
Now there will be expectation of success every time he steps up. Belief is everything, and Rashford’s self-confidence is clear. He will get a few more attempts now.
United’s squad also clearly believe in themselves too. Three wins on the bounce away from home in all competitions show the team are back on track.
Brandon Williams is ready for the Premier League
Doing it away to Partizan is one thing. Succeeding away to Chelsea is another.
Brandon Williams looked at ease against Chelsea, fighting for every ball, going up for every header.
He looks ready for Premier League football, and this match sealed the deal.
It would be a major disappointment if he is not included against Bournemouth at the weekend.
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