Manchester United put a dent in Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes today, whilst improving their top four prospects
Red Devils manager Louis van Gaal entered this week with his future very much on the line after a string of poor performances and results.
But a win at Shrewsbury in the FA Cup on Monday, followed by advancing past FC Midtjylland in the Europa League on Thursday, and now this important win over one of their oldest rivals, has lifted some of the apparent doom and gloom around Old Trafford.
And it was their brightest new striker, Marcus Rashford, who came up trumps once again, following up his double against the Danish side with another two, and an assist, in this game.
Van Gaal made two changes from Thursday, with Marcos Rojo and David De Gea coming back to the starting line up.
For Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal, Danny Welbeck lined up against his former club.
Both sides had chances early on, Nacho Monreal firing straight at De Gea before Memphis Depay aimed a free-kick straight at Petr Cech.
In the 29th minute, the home side were in front. A Guillermo Varela cross from the right was not dealt with, allowing Rashford to fire home.
Three minutes later, Rashford continued his unbelievable start to life in the United first team, nodding in a cross from Jesse Lingard.
Arsenal got back into the game when Welbeck scored from a free-kick from Mesut Ozil. Welbeck, like Rashford, graduated from the Manchester community club, Fletcher Moss Rangers.
Rojo’s comeback from injury was cut short when he was forced off after a collision with Welbeck, replaced by 18-year-old Tim Fosu-Mensah. He became the latest in a line of youngsters making their debuts this season.
Rashford teed up Ander Herrera to make it 3-1, his shot deflected in off Laurent Koscielny.
Welbeck forced a fine save from Spanish keeper De Gea, Ozil fired in the rebound to give Gunners fans hope.
However, Giroud headed a chance over the bar late on, and United held on for an important win.
There was also the slightly humorous sight of LVG theatrically diving to the floor whilst remonstrating with the fourth official. He later apologised for the tumble.
By Steve Osborne                   @BlizzardSteve75
