Anthony Martial put on a spectacular display as he scored one and set up another as Man Utd beat Crystal Palace 3-1 at the MCG.
In another high-tempo and quality performance at one of the best pitches in the world, United maintained their 100 per cent pre-season start with Martial once again on target after scoring in both. their previous wins against Melbourne Victory and Liverpool.
The Frenchman took Diogo Dalot’s cross for the first time and finished smartly, with debutant Tyrell Malacia joining in on the build, before playing a key role in Marcus’ second moment. Rashford after half-time thanks to a lovely touch and pass.
Martial then became United’s third man, against a Palace side missing some of their starting XI, with a pass that freed Jadon Sancho at half-time for the first time, from there. The winger’s powerful shot sent the result beyond doubt.
Minutes after a flurry of changes for both sides, Joel Ward headed a consolation for the Eagles, but those substitutions killed both sides’ momentum and Will Fish’s clumsy red card late in the game. was the only remarkable moment for both of them in the closing stages.
United’s only other major disappointment came from the crowd at the MCG, with Harry Maguire’s name booed before kick-off and throughout the first 45 minutes – but the club captain shrugged at the criticism. and nearly scored in the first half 20 meters long. .
Patch Palace outperforms United’s speed attack
Wilfried Zaha, Christian Benteke and Cheikh Doucoure are among the Crystal Palace players forced to stay in England due to various issues, and an underpowered Eagles team has largely been blown away by Manchester United’s speedy attack. at the birthplace of the test crickets.
Martial, Rashford and Sancho were all too lively in front of Patrick Vieira’s defence, with each of United’s three fronts being targeted, while Fred and Scott McTominay played their part in a productive high, provided a defensive screen that led Palace to camp inside their home field. parts of the game.
Ten Hag will be pleased with the way his side operate without the ball, but with that, they have shown signs of confidence and cohesion rarely seen at United in recent years.
This is only pre-season, and Palace are still in the running with staffing issues, but the way United scored their second goal three minutes into the first half in particular was encouraging.
A high ball was cushioned by Martial before passing it to Sancho, who returned his pass inside the box. He then found a well-timed run when Donny van de Beek came in mid-half over his right shoulder, and the Dutchman set up Rashford for a touch and the whole move in just a few minutes. second.
It was Rashford’s second goal in as many games and both he and Martial played with the freedom and form they’ve lacked over the past 12 months.
Vieira’s main positive from Melbourne will be the performances of young winger Malcolm Ebiowei, signed from Derby earlier this month.
He provided Malacia’s problems when running and created chances for Palace before the break, and despite the quality of Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Wilfried Zaha out, could vouch for the manager. his new that he can challenge them for a place in the first team despite not turning 19 until September.
What’s next?
Manchester United will travel to Perth to face Aston Villa on July 23; starts at 10:45 am.
The Crystal Palace players who remain in England will face Gillingham at Priestfield late on Tuesday; kicks off at 7pm, before the match in Australia against Leeds United on Friday; starting at 11.05am.
