Manchester United’s latest acquisition Alexis Sanchez shone on his debut as Jose Mourinho’s side won 4-0 against Yeovil Town
Manchester United progressed to the fifth round of the FA Cup, after they defeated League Two side Yeovil Town 4-0 at the Huish Park on Friday night.
After a frenetic start to the game, United took some time to settle in and the first breakthrough came five minutes from half-time through Marcus Rashford. Ander Herrera then doubled United’s advantage after the break, before substitutes Jesse Lingard and Romelu Lukaku added the icing on the cake with two late goals.
It was a professional display from Jose Mourinho’s side in the Portuguese’s 100th match in-charge, against the Glovers who gave a very good account of themselves on the night. The result meant Manchester United progressed to the fifth round of the FA Cup for the fifth time in the last six seasons.
FT – Yeovil 0 #MUFC 4.
Goals from @MarcusRashford, @AnderHerrera, @JesseLingard and @RomeluLukaku9 see us safely into the #FACup fifth round! pic.twitter.com/0fNbHskKia
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 26, 2018
And here’s how we rated the performances of the United stars at the Huish Park.
Sergio Romero – 6/10
Easy stop to deny Jordan Green early in the game. Was alert when called upon, but did not look all that assured at times, especially when he parried a straight-forward free-kick.
Matteo Darmian – 5/10
The Italian full-back was handed a very rare start at right-back, but he failed to make the most of it. Troubled by Green and Ryan Dickson on his flank and looked susceptible against pace.
Victor Lindelof – 6/10
Another player who was making a rare appearance, Lindelof was tested at times by Francois Zoko and Sam Surridge, but stuck to his task well. Won his headers and tackles on most occasions, but did give away some needless fouls.
Marcos Rojo – 6/10
The Argentine was on the receiving end of a strong challenge from Zoko very early in the game and was up for the physical battle ever since. Did look nervy on occasions, but managed to see out the game with a clean sheet. Got the assist for Lukaku’s goal with a pinpoint cross after a surging run into the box.
Luke Shaw – 7/10
Returning to the line-up in place of Ashley Young, the former Southampton man put in another solid and reliable display at left-back. Got forward well regularly and had a shot blocked brilliantly by Nathan Smith in the second period. Defended solidly and was the steadiest of the back four for United.
Michael Carrick – 7.5/10
After a long time spent out on the sidelines due to a heart condition, the club captain returned to action on Friday night. Did what he does best as he kept things ticking for United with his array of passes to get his team forward. Aware of his defensive duties as well. Solid return for the veteran.
Playing this pass first time when under pressure by 2 players. Just another day at office for @carras16 pic.twitter.com/dt4icfnlBn
— Captain Curious (@pushkarp99) January 26, 2018
Ander Herrera – 6.5/10
Made his 150th appearance for the Red Devils, got into good positions in the final third early on, but the final ball was lacking. Pressed well throughout and got his second goal in his second visit to the Huish Park, with a well-struck left-footed shot.
Juan Mata – 6/10
Starting on the right side, one would have expected the Spaniard to turn on his creativity against a lower league opponent, but it wasn’t to be. However, kept it simple, moved well and linked up nicely at times with Alexis, without really producing a standout moment of quality. Scored from an offside position, before being taken off.
Scott McTominay – 6/10
Starting as United’s No.10, the academy graduate forced a good save from the Yeovil goalkeeper halfway through the first half. Showed good energy levels and was up for the physical battle, but did lose the ball in the midfield on a number of occasions. Booked late in the game.
Alexis Sanchez – 8/10
United’s new no.7 made his much-anticipated debut for the club, starting on the left wing. Scrappy start, misplacing a few passes, but slowly started to grow in influence and his class was on display. Drove United forward, created chances, forced a save from a free-kick before playing Rashford in for the goal.
Got the assist for Herrera’s goal as well with a neat pass. It wasn’t the most memorable of the debuts, but the Chilean gave a taste of what to expect and the United fans will be very pleased with what they saw from their new man.
Alexis Sanchez's chances created (6)
Every other Man United an Yeovil player's combined chances created (6)
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) January 26, 2018
Marcus Rashford – 7/10
Given the responsibility of leading the line against Yeovil, Rashford offered very little in terms of hold up play early in the game. However, showed great alertness to pounce on the opportunity to score the opener, breaking a 10-game goal drought. Was a bright influence after the break as well, and did come close to scoring a couple more times.
Substitutes
Romelu Lukaku – 6.5/10
On for Mata just after the hour mark. Took his goal very well late in the game to make it 4-0.
Jesse Lingard – 6.5/10
Came on to replace Alexis. Missed a chance, but scored another spectacular goal. His love affair with the cup competitions continues.
Angel Gomes – N/A
Late substitute for Rashford. Hit the side netting after a sharp run.
