Manchester United never seemed to have a tight game, but in the 83rd minute the clock struck and West Ham won a corner kick. Ruben Amorim watched from the touchline as his team seized the advantage in the second period, with both teams dominating. Diogo Dalot was often the brunt of United supporters’ frustrations, becoming the fall man in the much-criticized back three system.
But that was his shining moment, beating home to the Stretford End on Thursday night. However, instead of trying to score a second goal, United began to let the game slip away. Amorim’s forces lacked any semblance of authority as their passing became increasingly capricious, while his changes designed to ensure victory only further disrupted their tempo.
The red flags were clear, and as West Ham slowly progressed into the game, an equalizer looked all but certain. After a West Ham set-piece, Sungutu Magassa silenced Old Trafford when the ball fell perfectly into the box.
Gary Neville complained on Sky Sports: “It’s never safe to let the game flow when you’re 1-0 up. That’s what happened. Amorim’s substitution was meant to end the game.”
Amorim had emphasized intensity and urgency before kick-off, but United were lackluster at best, with West Ham gaining momentum in the closing stages.
The Hammers pressed forward, claimed loose balls and looked quite threatening in attack. Amorim took a risk ahead of the game by placing young talent Aiden Haven at the heart of his defence, following Lenny Yolo’s inconsistent performance against Crystal Palace.
The Portuguese head coach cited tactical reasons for the decision, which exposed the youngster in a difficult match.
United were outclassed by a desperate West Ham team in need of a point.
It was a disappointing result for Amorim’s side, who could have picked up nine points from their last three games but only managed to pick up four points. The Red Devils next face Wolves on Sunday night and will be hoping to get back to winning form before the Christmas period.
