Manchester United almost suffered another major loss when Dimitri Payet scored with an exceptional free-kick in the second half. But Martial’s effortful tap-in ensured that the fight for FA Cup is still on.
A win was expected from the Red Devils, given the home advantage and how dominant they were.
Louis van Gaal’s men managed to successfully recreate the blunders in the attack which we’ve been witnessing with the sloppy passes and lack of chemistry. Manchester United had 61% possession with 16 goal attempts out of which only 2 were on target. The players found it difficult to get the ball past West Ham’s defenders in the box.
Bastian Schweinsteiger’s return from the injury saw him coming on in the second half making a difference in United’s attack.
The moment of the match was set by the 20-year-old French striker, scoring a leveller and giving Red Devils a chance to fight back in Upton Park for the Semi-Finals of the FA Cup against Slaven Bilic’s side.
PLAYER RATINGS:
David De Gea- 6
The Spaniard denied Antonio’s effort but could’ve kept Payet’s free-kick out of the goal.
Varela- 8
The youngster has fought his way into the starting XI and continued his excellent performance against West Ham as well. His pace and awareness made it tough for The Irons to get past him.
Chris Smalling- 7
Smalling was ready for action against the physically tall and strong Andy Carroll and assured no danger from his part.
Dailey Blind- 5
The Dutch international couldn’t find a way to ease into the game as he got totally prone to committing mistakes. He was also responsible for the free-kick which ended up in the back of the net.
Marcos Rojo- 6
The Argentine defender was persistent in defence and full of fight but wasn;t able to give an effective performance.
Carrick- 6
Playing in his preferred position, the Englishman showed a much better display than he did in his last game but was too slow in passing.
Fellaini- 4
Stupid play from the Belgian in today’s match. Fellaini got booked for a mindless act and didn’t really contribute much to attack. Substituted after being too slow on the ball in the second half.
Herrera- 7
Provided an assist to Martial and played with full determination. The Spanish playmaker also showcased some great touches and passes.
Jesse Lingard- 6
Lingard had a good link-up with Herrera. Provided pace to the attack but missed an early half chance.
Anthony Martial- 8
Scored the leveller running past a couple of players unmarked on Herrera’s pass. The Frenchman offered a consistent threat to the Hammers.
Marcus Rashford- 6
The young forward found it difficult to get his way into the game on his sixth consecutive start. Rashford worked hard throughout the match but not succeeded in providing any real impact.
SUBSTITUTES:
Bastian Schweinsteiger (for Fellaini, 76’)- 6
Memphis (for Rashford, 76’)- 5
