Manchester United 4-2 Sheff United: Host nation come from behind twice to win

Manchester United's chaotic scoring streak continued at Old Trafford, with two come-from-behind wins over a thriving Sheffield United side.

Manchester United captain Fernandes hooked in a cross with a stunning 25-yard pinpoint drive with five minutes remaining, allowing Hojlund to score his first goal since February.

As with Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Coventry, it was ultimately a positive result for coach Erik ten Hag, who was under pressure.

But there are some surprising statistics in their recent results. A total of 27 goals have been scored in the last five games. They have conceded and scored at least two goals in all of them.

From an entertainment perspective, it's sensational. But there was zero sense of structure, and one wonders what new technical director Jason Wilcox made of it after watching his first game in the director's box at Old Trafford since his appointment was confirmed last week. It won't happen.

Ten Hag's side, who had criticized the media the day before the match, calling the coverage of the match against Coventry “embarrassing” and “disgraceful”, were unable to follow up convincingly on the pitch.

Sheffield United, who had not won since February and had played just three league games all season, took the lead twice with goals from Jayden Bogle in the first half and Ben Brereton-Diaz in the second half.

The home side equalized each time thanks to a deft header from Harry Maguire and a penalty from Fernandes.

Manchester United ended up picking up a point and moving back into 6th place.

Fernandes, savior after Onana's mistake

Ten Hag have faced injury and fitness issues within their squad in recent weeks. Goalkeeper Andre Onana was a reliable presence amidst the chaos.

The Cameroonian goalkeeper seems to have forgotten his poor form at the start of the season. His recent performances have been commendable considering he has been behind one of the leakiest defenses in Premier League history in terms of shots allowed. He wasn't able to use his full passing range due to a defense that couldn't push him high, but he generally did well.

But Onana had a moment to forget against Sheffield United. When the ball was passed to Diogo Dalot from inside his own six-yard area, the goalkeeper allowed Jayden Bogle to charge. The 23-year-old's powerful burst brought him into shooting range and he expertly placed his shot into the top corner.

Ten Hag was a lonely figure on the touchline.

Sheffield United fans had fun at the Dutchman's expense, reminding him that wins away from home are rare. To be completely accurate, they haven't won much anywhere this season. The last of their last three wins came at Luton in February.

The kind of damage Manchester United do to themselves is unstoppable and it makes winning games even more difficult than it needs to be.

Maguire leveled the score before the end of the first half when he turned in Alejandro Garnacho's cross, but he fell asleep in his own penalty area, giving Sheffield United their second lead.

Fernandes, who had two goals and one assist, stepped in to save them. His second, a stunning 25-yard drive, was the highlight, but the industry that produced Hoylund's goal also deserves credit.

Overall results aren't the secret to continued success, but after the past few weeks, Ten Hag is probably just grateful to have gotten the win.

A positive night for the Blades, but still a loss

In a season of almost unrelenting gloom at Bramall Lane, this undoubtedly represents one of the high points.

Back in September, the Blades were leading Tottenham until stoppage time, when they lost. In December they drew with Aston Villa.

It is almost certain that they will return to Old Trafford in the Premier League next season, but the memory of that frenetic performance will remain in the hearts of supporters, although it was disappointing that the team could not hold the lead for more than 16 minutes in total. will remain. In the end, he succumbed to Fernandes' talent.

Not surprising. He conceded 92 goals, surpassing Derby's previous record of 89 goals conceded in 38 games in the top flight. Swindon's Premier League record of 100, set in 42 games in the 1993-94 season, may yet be surpassed. They have conceded 26 goals in their last eight games and are not at a level where they can overcome their weaknesses.

Chris Wilder's side will be relegated if they lose against Newcastle on Saturday. Even if they end up with a draw, they are still significantly behind on goal difference, so they are effectively still a loser. But whatever the outcome, a decline is inevitable.

There were positives, too, mainly a string of first-half saves from Wes Foderingham and a mature performance from young midfielder Oliver Arbruster, who is notable as Sheffield United's seventh captain this season.

However, their return to the Championship will be made official soon. And they deserve no less.