Manchester United got back to wining ways with a 2-0 victory over Brighton at Old Trafford last night that saw them move into the top four.
Both goals cam in the second half with Cristiano Ronaldo ending a six game goal drought and Bruno Fernandes doubling United’s lead with a stoppage time goal.
Shortly after the first goal Brighton were left struggling after their captain Lewis Dunk was sent off following a VAR review of his foul on Anthony Elanga.
It was a crucial three points for the Red Devils who move back into the top four.
For the seagulls this will be a familiar feeling.
They have now drawn two and lost 12 in 14 away games at Old Trafford – and haven’t won in 20 trips to face either United or City.
United interim manager Ralf Rangnick said: ““The win was very important after three draws and now we need to recover and be in form Elland Road on Sunday.”
When asked about his star man Ronaldo he said: ““It was an outstanding goal. It was important for all of us, but his overall performance was one of the best since I arrived.”
The Portuguese striker reacted on social media after the game encouraging his side to build on the performance.
Meanwhile in Lisbon, Manchester City smoothly grabbed a 5-0 win against Sporting Lisbon as the UEFA Champions League returns.
Ex-Benfica player Bernardo Silva stole the show when he scored the second goal just 17 minutes in before going on to score the fourth 27 minutes later.
Also on the scoresheet was Riyad Mahrez scoring the first goal, with it subjected to a lengthy VAR offside check.
Stockport’s own Phil Foden scored yet another calm, collected goal during what can only be described as a merciless first half.
The side continued where they left off in the second half, with Silva almost getting a hat-trick before the goal was ruled out for offside.
He went on to set up a Raheem Sterling who curled home his sides fifth and final goal.
Sporting must now travel to Manchester for the second leg on Wednesday 16 March.
Pep Guardiola said : “The result is a dream but we can perform better.
“Not just in the Champions League but in the Premier League we always concede few.
Picture credit: Eurasia review and Pixaby
