Three observations as Manchester United see off Omonia in stoppage time

Manchester United's Scottish midfielder Scott McTominay (R) celebrates with Manchester United's English striker Marcus Rashford (L) after scoring their late goal during the UEFA Europa League Group E football match between Manchester United and Omonoia Nicosia, at Old Trafford stadium, in Manchester, north-west England, on October 13, 2022. - Man Utd won the game 1-0. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

Manchester United bossed Omonia at Old Trafford but it was a frustrating night as it took 92 minutes to score a goal.

Despite having more than 30 attempts on goal, it took a goal from substitute Scott McTominay to win the match against a team United should be brushing aside.

Francis Uzoho, Omonia’s Nigerian goalkeeper, deserves a mention for his incredible display between the sticks. He was buzzing at full-time like every other United fan in the stadium.

Without further ado, here are three observations from the game

Manchester United lacking a cutting edge

The result matters more than the performance and we are not yet playing like Erik ten Hag wants his side to play. That will take time, but these lads must learn from tonight because you need to take your opportunities against stronger opposition. It’s one thing dominating proceedings – but it doesn’t mean anything if you are not taking advantage by putting the ball in the net. You could say it has been a recurring theme at United as we struggle to breakdown teams that play a low block.

Marcus Rashford close to top form

Whatever Ten Hag is doing with Rashford behind the scenes, the Englishman looks a player reborn with five goals to his name this season. He didn’t score tonight but he made Uzoho work on several occasions. Rashford will add to his tally for the season with more performances like that.

Ten Hag continues to pick his best team

The Europa League may be a second-rate competition, but you would be wrong to think Ten Hag is underestimating the early stages of the competition. It was another strong starting eleven tonight, yet we still made hard work of the task at hand. The manager is expected to do the same against Sheriff next time out in the Europa League.

More Stories Erik ten Hag Manchester United Marcus Rashford Omonia