Full Time: Manchester United 2-0 Crystal Palace
Manchester United may have finished outside the top-4 but they managed to end the season on a strong note as their second string side put in a solid effort to put two past Crystal Palace in the penultimate game of their campaign. In what was the last game of the league season, the Red Devils used quite a few youngsters in the first team to keep most of the star players fit for the Europa League final on Thursday.
Youngster Josh Harrop opened the scoring for the hosts with a fine finish after French midfielder Paul Pogba put him through on goal just minutes before doubling United’s lead in the first half. Their goals were enough for the Red Devils to take all three points, even as they fielded their youngest ever squad in the competition. Here’s how the Manchester United players fared against Palace:
Manchester United Player Ratings
Joel Pereria (6)
Was almost caught out from a corner where Benteke should have scored but was solid otherwise.
Timothy Fosu-Mensah (5)
Was caught out of position a few times and also gave away a number of needless fouls in a comfortable game for Manchester United.
Eric Bailly (7)
Put in a solid performance at the back against the likes of the Benteke as he helped his side to a clean sheet in his final game of the season.
Phil Jones (6)
Hardly had anything to do but stuck to his task well to keep Palace away from breaching Manchester United’s defence.
Demetri Mitchell (7)
Did no harm to all the hype that was created around him as he put in a solid and exciting performance for United.
Scott McTominay (6)
Confident on the ball and creative going forward, McTominay displayed maturity way beyond his years in his debut game for the club.
Axel Tuanzebe (6)
Was used in the midfield and he did not disappoint. Put in an assuring performance, dropping deep when needed and connecting the play well in the middle of the park.
Paul Pogba (8)
Put in a stellar performance where he picked up a goal and an assist in the first half of the game. Was subbed off by Mou at half-time to ensure he’s kept fresh for the Europa League final.
Josh Harrop (8)
A dream debut – should sum it up really! Showed great composure and confidence to put his side ahead. Was a constant threat to Palace on the break.
Jesse Lingard (7)
Picked up the assist for Pogba’s goal and put in a solid performance to finish Manchester United’s domestic campaign on a high.
Wayne Rooney (6)
Was decent on and off the ball but failed to have an impact on the scoreline in what could have been his last game at Old Trafford.
Subs
Michael Carrick (6)
Came on at half-time to replace Pogba and did well to hold on to the lead.
Anthony Martial (6)
Should have had more than a goal to his name in the second half and needs to improve his finishing when he starts his next campaign.
Angel Gomes (N/A)
Came in with just a couple of minutes to go to add to the list of Manchester United debutants.