Manchester United survived an onslaught of Aston Villa – including two disallowed goals – as Scott McTominay’s first goal proved enough to send Ralf Rangnick’s side into the FA Cup fourth round.
United, who were without the injured Cristiano Ronaldo, took the lead just eight minutes into the match as Fred sent in a perfect cross one inch from the right and McTominay headed in behind Emiliano Martinez from close range.
Villa was celebrating what he thought was a draw just five minutes into the second half when Ezri Konsa headed a free kick on the surface of the goal for Danny Ings who took home from close range.
But after a lengthy review of the VAR, including Michael Oliver controlling the monitor, it was canceled after Jacob Ramsey was convicted of blocking Edinson Cavani.
The frustration continued for Villa as Ings saw the interrupted celebrations once again as he passed De Gea and cut the ball over De Gea for Watkins to touch home, only to see the offside flag rise for the initial signing run. summer.
It was the story of the match for Steven Gerrard’s side, who, despite the initial setback, reacted well by falling behind on McTominay’s opening header.
They went all out but scored when John McGinn’s long-range shot was held out by David de Gea before Ollie Watkins rocked the crossbar after turning Victor Lindelof on the inside as the hosts entered half-time with the advantage intact.
After the goals disallowed, Villa continued to push for a late draw but it didn’t turn out to be their night as United survived a terrible fright to reach the fourth round, where Middlesbrough will play.
More flattering united to deceive again
Oliver Yew of Sky Sport:
“It was a job done for Manchester United, but only fair!
“Steven Gerrard will be left scratching his head on the bus to get home from Old Trafford, wondering how his team didn’t get something out of this fun FA Cup draw.
“Villa was by far the best team when they went through Manchester United over and over again, just as the Wolves did in their Old Trafford Premier League win a week ago when Ralf Rangnick’s team failures reappeared. in the last weeks .
“McTominay and Fred may have teamed up for what turned out to be United’s winning goal in the early stages, but several times United were invaded in the middle of the park as Villa built up pressure on the hosts.
“The frustrations of the home fans were evident when the passes went astray and Villa continued to dominate the game and, on a different day, Gerrard’s men would have their reward.
“However, it had to be United’s day as they held out for a much needed win to ease the pressure on Rangnick slightly.”
Will Coutinho prove the difference for Villa?
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
The best moments of the Premier League by Philippe Coutinho.
Despite the defeat at Old Trafford, it was a great week for Villa with Philippe Coutinho putting the finishing touches on his transfer on loan from Barcelona.
The former Liverpool forward has completed medical examinations and is currently in France completing the paperwork for his work permit.
On Wednesday he will join his new teammates to take part in his first training session and will be ready to play in Saturday’s Premier League match against United.
Gerrard hopes his former Liverpool team-mate can make a difference when his side clash with United again, this time at Villa Park and live. Sky Sports.
What’s next?
Live: FNS
Saturday 15 January at 17:00
Manchester United will visit Aston Villa in the Premier League next Saturday at 5.30pm, live on Sky Sports Premier League.
