Manchester United scrapped to a win over Brighton which was barely deserved.
Bruno Fernandes’ injury time penalty gave us three much-needed points to kickstart our season.
Not many players came out of the match able to say they played strong games from start to finish.
Marcus Rashford scored a dazzling individual goal, but also saw two United goals ruled out because he could not stay onside.
Bruno Fernandes scored the late penalty and provided an assist, but also gave away a spot kick at the other end.
The player who had the most consistent game throughout was probably Nemanja Matic, who provided the assist for United’s first goal.
Matic = wins
Nemanja Matic has now started two games for United this season and the team have won them both.
The match he missed, we lost 3-1. It is not a coincidence. United are simply a better team when he is in it.
Matic made four tackles in midfield and two interceptions, also blocking one shot on goal.
He gave United composure when it was needed, making 66 passes, more than any midfielder on the team.
He will probably get a rest when United face Brighton again in the cup in midweek.
But when the big league game at home to Spurs comes around next Sunday, Matic is a locked in starter.
Fan praise
Here is a look at how fans reacted to Matic’s performance…
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