Manchester United’s beleaguered manager Erik ten Hag breathed a sigh of relief as his team secured a much-needed 3-0 victory over Southampton at St. Mary’s Stadium. The win, United’s second of the season, eased the pressure on Ten Hag, who had come under intense scrutiny following back-to-back defeats to Brighton and Liverpool.
The match started with Southampton dominating possession and creating several early chances. However, United goalkeeper Andre Onana proved to be a formidable barrier, saving a penalty from Cameron Archer in the 15th minute. This crucial save proved to be a turning point in the game, as United seized the momentum and took control of the match.
Just two minutes after Onana’s heroics, Matthijs de Ligt opened the scoring for United. The Dutch defender, who had endured a difficult week with the Netherlands national team, rose above the Southampton defense to head home a Bruno Fernandes cross. Marcus Rashford doubled United’s lead in the 41st minute with a curling strike from outside the box, ending his six-month goal drought.
Southampton’s woes deepened in the second half when captain Jack Stephens was sent off for a reckless challenge on Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine winger then added insult to injury by scoring United’s third goal in stoppage time, sealing the victory for the visitors.
The win lifted United to eighth in the Premier League standings, while Southampton remained without a point after four games. Ten Hag’s team will now face Leicester City at home on Thursday, while Southampton will travel to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.
