The instinctive boos from some home supporters was natural, just as umpire Simon Hooper blew his final whistle at Old Trafford on Sunday. Manchester United fans have seen Reuben Amorim lose eight times in 13 home matches since becoming head coach. During that period, there will also be just four wins and two draws.
However, the sound of the boos was quickly overwhelmed by enthusiastic applause. All four corners of the Dream Theater showed their appreciation after very encouraging 97 minutes of football. United failed to score for the 12th in Amorim’s 43 outings, but this wasn’t the kind of defeat they had last season.
Some players looked devastated and exhausted. Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Matheus Cunha collapsed to the floor.
Bruno Fernandez and Amado had to fall, but Brian Mbemo and Benjamin Sesco had to put their hands on their laps as they let the air out of breath.
The Arsenal player’s responses further said. From the writer’s point of view at the bottom edge of Stretford, Gabriel Magalges cried in peace as he fell to his lap.
The gunners fled with it, and they knew it.
United’s 22 shots, nine of which came into the box, made up for the best tally in their Premier League match against Arsenal, as they scored 25 in the infamous 8-2 victory in August 2011.
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David Raya had to make more saves this weekend than other Premier League goalkeepers.
United won’t be in 15th place this time. They probably won’t be challenging for Champions League qualification either.
But the combination of the excitement reaction from the stands and the animated aftermath of the pitch created a lively picture.
The Red Devils are goalkeepers and midfielders, moving away from turning improved campaigns (not high ceilings) into successful campaigns.
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However, losses are losses. Another bad outcome at Fulham on Sunday will make Arsenal’s performance easier to forget.
Burnley at Home continues. Carabao Cup is stuck between them in their second tie with Blundell Park League 2 club Grimsby Town.
Hopes for Arsenal’s victory at Old Trafford may have strengthened the positive reaction to United’s show.
However, Amorim’s side is expected to enter the first international break of the season behind three victories to advance the campaign.
