Manchester United never appeared to have the match sewn up, as the clock struck the 83rd minute and West Ham secured a corner. Ruben Amorim had observed from the touchline as his team grabbed the advantage in the second period, having been the superior outfit of the two sides. Diogo Dalot frequently bears the brunt of United supporters’ frustrations, becoming the fall guy in the much-maligned three-at-the-back system.
Yet on Thursday night, it was his moment to shine – smashing home in front of the Stretford End. But rather than pressing for a second goal, United began to allow the match to slip away from them. Amorim’s men lacked any semblance of authority as their passing became increasingly wayward, whilst his changes – designed to secure the victory – merely disrupted their tempo even more.
The danger signals were evident and the leveller seemed almost certain as West Ham gradually imposed themselves on proceedings. Soungoutou Magassa hushed Old Trafford when the ball fell perfectly for him inside the box following a West Ham set-piece.
“When you’re 1-0 up and you let a game drift you’re never really safe. That’s what has happened. Amorim’s substitutions were intended to see this game out,” Gary Neville complained on Sky Sports.
Amorim had emphasised intensity and urgency before kick-off – yet United were lacklustre at best, with West Ham the team gaining momentum in the dying stages.
The Hammers pressed forward, claimed loose balls, and appeared considerably more threatening in attack. Amorim took a risk ahead of the match, placing young talent Ayden Heaven at the core of his defence after Leny Yoro’s shaky performance against Crystal Palace.
The Portuguese head coach cited tactical reasons for his decision, but it left the youngster exposed during a tricky fixture.
United were outpaced and outperformed by a desperate West Ham side in need of points.
It’s been a disappointing run for Amorim’s team, securing just four points from a possible nine in their last three matches. The Red Devils face Wolves next on Sunday evening, with hopes of returning to their winning form before the Christmas period.