Maguire is getting a good reception from the United fans, as most of the subs have. It’s maybe the first time ‘Harry Maguire’ has been chanted repeatedly. Antony was rollocked by Dalot but not by Ten Hag. The crowd approved but he risked ridicule and looked ridiculous by giving the ball away. Never mind that it’s still United 0-0 Sheriff with half-time looming.
This has been typical for United in the Europa League so far. Well on top, loads of possession but little threat on the opposition goal and the frustration is setting in. IF they score one they might go and get three or four, but at the moment it is looking more like another underwhelming 1-0 win rather than a glut of goals.
Next, United will hit the post or the crossbar. It’s been predictable stuff so far – right down to the goalless scoreline. United have been watchable and enterprising but blunt again. Radeljic did well to toe the ball away from Ronaldo when it appeared he had squandered a gilt-edged chance.
Ten Hag is sat down as there is little to impart to the players. United are probing and proactive but they cannot put the ball past the ‘keeper and between the sticks. As I write that, Ten Hag has just sidled over to speak with Antony, who got some treatment.
An apology to Cristiano Ronaldo, he didn’t actually touch that ball. That in itself is maybe a sign of how rusty he is at the moment. The game is developing as expected, so far. Right down to United not scoring. They could do with having a few more sighters to test the ‘keeper and lure Sheriff out of their defensive line, just for the sake of variety.
— Chirag Godara (@iChiragg) October 27, 2022