Manchester United stretched manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer‘s perfect start to five games as they saw off Reading in the third round of the FA Cup with a 2-0 win.
Juan Mata, from the penalty spot, and Romelu Lukaku got the goals as United ground out a victory despite a sub-par display.
Here’s a look at how the players fared.
STARTING XI
Sergio Romero 8 – Romero actually had more saves to make than his opposite number, and did so with aplomb, keeping Reading out with some excellent saves.
Diogo Dalot 7 – Some of his crossing was disappointing given his reputation, but he provided an attacking threat and stood up well defensively, though he was caught out of position at times.
Matteo Darmian 7 – Playing in a back two rather than a back three, Darmian showed his versatility, looking solid as United kept a second straight clean sheet.
Phil Jones 8 – Not only a mistake-free display, but a genuinely composed and commanding performance from Phil Jones.
Ashley Young 7 – Good defensively and going forward, denied an assist only thanks to a poor finish from Marouane Fellaini after an enterprising run from the United captain.
Scott McTominay 7 – Solid defensively, breaking up Reading’s passing play and providing an extra presence in the box when needed. Offered little on the ball, perhaps an indicator of the sort of player he’ll be in the future.
Fred 6 – Struggled at times to keep United in control of the game and serve as a midfield anchor, though some of his passing was crisp and penetrating.
Andreas Pereira 6 – Gave away the ball too easily, contributing to a sloppy performance in general from United. His defensive work was at least up to scratch.
Juan Mata 7 – Won and converted a penalty and on occasion his typical incisive passing was on display.
Romelu Lukaku 8 – A goal for the third consecutive game – Lukaku hasn’t been on a scoring run like this since March. Given the way he rounded the keeper to score, it seems the Belgian’s confidence is back.
Alexis Sanchez 8 – Two assists in two appearances under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, only the second time he’s had assists in consecutive games during his short United career. Worrying that he went off with a knock.
SUBSTITUTES
Tahith Chong 6 – Showed flashes of his skill and pace, but also misplaced a few passes and was at times not on the same wavelength as his team-mates. An uneventful, though popular, debut.
Marouane Fellaini 5 – Should have made it 3-0, producing a tame shot straight at the goalkeeper from barely five yards out after being set up by Young. Provided his usual defensive solidity.
Marcus Rashford 6 – Missed a glorious chance to score right at the end, rounding the keeper but then losing the ball and slipping trying to keep control.
