Leeds United were given a sobering football lesson by a clinical Manchester United at Old Trafford as the Red Devils moved to third in the Premier League and just five points behind leaders Liverpool.
Leeds United Punished by Clinical Manchester United
Manchester United Hit Leeds United for Six
The scoreline, in some ways, does not quite reflect the full story of this game at Old Trafford as Leeds United were given a lesson in clinical finishing by Manchester United. It was that clinical finishing that was the difference in this match. Within three minutes, Scott McTominay had fired the Red Devils into a two-goal lead. His first finish was a superb strike from outside of the box and his second was all about a fine first touch and delightful finish. The game was so open with midfield areas bereft of players and both teams attacking at every opportunity. It certainly was not a game where defensive qualities were on show.
Leeds United Refuse to Change Their Playing Style
Despite the scoreline, Leeds at no point went into their shell. Quite the opposite, in fact, and they deserved more than the two goals that they managed through Liam Cooper on halftime and a fine Stuart Dallas finish that will be one of the contenders for December’s goal of the month competition. Jack Harrison had a huge chance in the final minute to get Leed’s third goal but somehow fired wide of David de Gea’s post. In total there were 42 shots on target throughout the game, according to Sky Sports, and the game was a great advert for the Premier League with great energy from both teams and neither side giving an inch.
For fans of defensive and resolute football, this will have been the antithesis of everything they enjoy but for the purists and the neutral, this was simply a great game of football.
Clinical Manchester United Move Third
Manchester United have moved up to third in the Premier League with this win over Leeds and they also have a game in hand over the teams above them. Whilst some may say Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is on borrowed time at Old Trafford, his side are just five points off the top spot, whereas last season at this stage they were 26 points off the top. That is surely progress that should not be ignored. Liverpool may remain favourites to retain their title but Manchester United have laid down a marker that puts them firmly in the mix.
For Leeds, they will not change how they play and as long as they go out to try and win every game they will pick up enough points across the season to ensure their stay in the Premier League is more than just a one-season affair.
Main Photo
