United Secures Hard-Fought Victory with Standout Performances

Lisandro Martinez achieved a commendable first start in ten months, having finally overcome a knee injury. Meanwhile, Gary Neville expressed particular admiration for Ayden Heaven’s performance during the victory over Newcastle, noting, “We need to suffer all together in the stadium. The game was quite challenging for us. I believe we had a strong first half, but in the second half, we focused on defending and creating opportunities with [Matheus] Cunha. While we faced challenges, it was a solid win. I’ve often commented on games where we played well but didn’t secure the points; today was different—we endured together and managed to claim victory.”

The 19-year-old Heaven had faced difficulties in United’s previous home matches against West Ham and Bournemouth, but delivered a flawless performance against Eddie Howe’s side. His excellence on the ball was accompanied by impressive defensive efforts, as he consistently neutralized threats and executed crucial aerial interventions. Heaven was named Player of the Match, and Neville expressed his admiration, stating, “He [Ayden Heaven] was absolutely outstanding. He was truly brilliant, clearing every header, and rightly received congratulations from Luke Shaw and the coaching staff.”

However, Neville was less favorable in his assessment of head coach Ruben Amorim’s decisions during the match. He noted the team’s good performance in the first half but criticized the substitutions that altered the team’s shape, leading to a more precarious second half. “I thought Manchester United edged the first half, but the substitutions had a bizarre effect on the team’s structure. Nonetheless, they managed to hold on,” he remarked.

Heaven expressed his satisfaction with United finally achieving a clean sheet, their first since defeating Sunderland 2-0 in early October. He emphasized the need to build on this victory to secure a European qualification. “Finally, a clean sheet—it’s something we have been anticipating, and I’m just so happy. Thanks to my teammates for all their support. I’m incredibly proud of the team. As Manchester United, we belong in Europe, and we aim to return there next season, possibly contending for a top-four finish or even the league title. Anything is possible; we must keep striving.”

Dorgu, who scored his first goal for the club, shared his excitement, stating, “It was a great shot. I was pleasantly surprised to score my first goal in this stadium—it was amazing. I focused on what [Ruben Amorim] advised regarding building my confidence, and I believe I performed well today. Seeing the ball drop, I just hit it, aided by my practice in training.”

Following their first home victory in four matches, United now has the opportunity to build momentum as they prepare to face Wolves, who are currently experiencing a historically poor season in the Premier League, with just two points after 17 matches.

Amorim conceded that United was not at their best but emphasized that the win could enhance team spirit and help the squad realize its potential amid a season marked by inconsistency. He stated, “We need to endure together in the stadium. We had opportunities in the second half with transitions, yet it was a commendable win. I’ve often pointed out games where we played well but failed to secure points; today, the situation was reversed. We endured together and achieved victory.

“We’ve spent considerable time together and experienced low moments that can ultimately foster growth within the group. It’s valuable to have experienced players supporting the younger ones, helping the team grasp that we share these challenges. Regardless of whether you’re on the pitch or not, everyone contributes to the game, and I believe we all played our part.”