Manchester United got their season off to a winning start thanks to a first-half own-goal courtesy of Kyle Walker.
United started brightly and showed good purpose in possession this afternoon, but there will be some concerns over the lack of firepower on display.
All the pre-match talk was around the decision to omit David de Gea from the matchday squad and Sergio Romero answered all the questions asked of him.
He had an early scare when Christian Eriksen stole in from the corner of the area, but his lifted attempt just didn’t dip quite enough to find the net.
Then it was United’s turn. A purposeful break from Ashley Young on the right wing picked out an unmarked Wayne Rooney.
Everything you wouldn’t expect from the England striker as he took an eternity to compose himself, giving Kyle Walker enough time to nip in from behind and stroke the ball into his own net.
Top finish lad! @kylewalker2 😃😂 https://t.co/hfNgzR9KOo
— Gooner Saadzz (@TheGoonerette) August 8, 2015
The remainder of the half comprised of Schneiderlin and Carrick pressing Pochettino’s side high up the pitch, but with no end result.
The second-half began brightly for the home side, Juan Mata and Memphis Depay really settling into their respective attacking role but there was no real penetration.
Harry Kane was a revelation was the season last year for the London side, but found it difficult this afternoon feeding off scraps.
Defensively, van Gaal’s side were steadier than in pre-season and for the most part were aided by the performance of Romero.
The Argentine goalkeeper made his Premier League debut and there were no signs of hard hands as he collected almost everything that made it’s way into the box.
Schweinsteiger made his competitive debut for the home side on the hour mark and Ander Herrera also got a run out for Memphis Depay, van Gaal keen to alternate between his midfield options.
Overall a good start for United, but there may be business done yet by Ed Woodward before the transfer window closes.
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