Manchester United were looking forward to change the tune of the season in the Premier League 2 as they lost to Leicester U23’s on opening day. However, another unfortunate evening was ahead of us as United lost against Liverpool 3-5. A heated evening as several players were involved in fights, with two red cards in the way, each for one side. The game saw a strange debut from United’s Shola Shoretire as he was sent off.
United was caught early on the ball not being able to respond to the three goals scored from Liverpool. Elanga scored one in the first half for United, but another Liverpool goal followed. The second half saw a response from United, but defeat couldn’t be avoided as those two goals scored were as a response after another Liverpool goal early in the second half.
In another problematic evening for the Reserves, here are the player ratings for tonight’s match:
Mastny – An unfortunate serious of events for the unlucky United keeper as the player conceded four goals in the first half. The terrible defending from United didn’t give the player any chances. Awarded Liverpool’s fifth goal. Two brilliant saves in the second half. 6
Bejger – Difficult evening for Bejger tonight as the player had the Liverpool attack come at him. Experience key at this level against a tough opponent like Liverpool. Substituted at the beginning of the second half by Luca Ercolani. 6
Fish – This evening’s captain seemed a bit off tonight and it showed as the defence centre half pairing didn’t work. Difficult evening for the youngster, yet again a lesson to be learned. 6
Bernard – Just like his teammate in the centre-back position, Bernard was caught out of position at times, not helping United’s case. Involved in several heated debates with Liverpool, a typical derby. Much better from him in the second half. 6
Svidersky – While it was a brilliant performance in the opening day against Leicester, Svidersky was quiet against Liverpool and it showed. Difficulties again risen due to being in an inexperienced side. Grew into the game in the second half, brilliant ball for United’s late chances. 7
McCann – At fault in Liverpool’s first goal, problematic in midfield and once again showed that needs a decent pair in midfield. Needs to work in several areas, but we will see more of him in the upcoming weeks. In a more experienced side, he would do much better. Scored a brilliant goal in the 88th minute. Better in the second half. 7
Shoretire – A special evening that should have been a celebration for Shoretire, but the result didn’t let the player celebrate much. A decent performance that couldn’t stand out in a night to forget for the Reserves overall. Sent off as he pushed Clarkson to the ground. 7
Wellens – Problematic evening for Wellens as well. No one’s night and the player was invisible through the game for United. Much better in the second half, but remembered his duties late in the second half. 7
Helm – Again being given attacking duties in a position not so clear about him. Came off injured in the middle of the first half for Hugill. Not the best moment to lose a player through injury. 6
Mejbri – Exceptional runs on the first half, but no end products in the end. Not cautious in the ball when in his own half. A talented player, but once again needs to work on his defensive skills. Another brilliant goal for Mejbri, but definitely should work on calming his nerves and work with the rest. 8
Elanga – United’s best player this evening. Some exceptional runs giving the Liverpool defenders headache. Scored United’s first goal from a close range and on the other hand kept United upfront. Certainly didn’t deserve the atrocious evening United had. What a player! 9
Hugill – Unable to make an impression in his Reserves’ debut. The midfield wasn’t of any help tonight and the player was invisible in the first half. A few good runs in the second half and his style of play was finally showing. Unfortunate. 7
Ercolani – Showed the experience and calmness United needed throughout the game when he came on, but couldn’t help the team avoid a horrific defeat. 7
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