Manchester United Just Managed to Draw with Crystal Palace
Manchester United was able to come home with a point, but it wasn’t enough to get the three points they needed. Despite having Martin Kelly sent off late in the second half, Crystal Palace was able to hold on and keep a point against the Red Devils.
United Needed More
Manchester United have had an inconsistent start to the season, and this draw with Palace was just another example of their struggle to find form. The Red Devils controlled the majority of the possession and took 18 shots on goal, with six of them testing Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, but none of them found the back of the net.
Widely Mixed Performance
Manchester United’s players had a widely mixed performance on the day. Some of United’s players failed to have their usual influence on the game, while others showed some promising signs of life. Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford both worked tirelessly up front, while Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba controlled the central midfield with authority.
David De Gea a Saving Grace
David De Gea was the saving grace for Manchester United throughout the match, with the Spanish goalkeeper making a number of spectacular saves to keep United in the game. His best save came in injury-time, when he denied Palace’s Max Meyer from close range.
Conclusion
Despite the point earned from the game, Manchester United will feel let down by the result. They had the chances to win the game but were unable to capitalize on them. It looks like Manchester United will have to work hard in training to get back to the levels they were at last season.
Tactical Takeaways:
- Crystal Palace were able to defend resolutely despite being down to ten men
- Manchester United need to take more of their chances if they want to win games
- David de Gea was a crucial figure in goal for the Red Devils
