Harry Maguire emerged as the hero as Manchester United secured their first home Premier League win since mid-January with a 3–2 victory over Ipswich Town, despite being reduced to 10 men.
The Red Devils continued their ongoing habit of starting games poorly as Jaden Philogene capitalised on a calamitous defensive mix-up between Patrick Dorgu and Andre Onana to tap into an empty net, giving the visitors an early lead - a dream start at Old Trafford for the Tractor Boys.
Midway through the half, Ipswich captain Sam Morsy inadvertently helped level proceedings, nodding a curling free-kick from Bruno Fernandes into his own net.
Matthijs de Ligt put United ahead shortly after with a second goal in quick succession for the Reds. Maguire, who was a constant aerial threat on the night, connected with another of Fernandes’ free kicks but his well-placed header was initially saved by Ipswich’s January signing, goalkeeper Alex Palmer. However, de Ligt was on hand to smash the rebound into the roof of the net.
Despite going ahead, it was far from straightforward for United from then on in. Matters took a dramatic turn when Patrick Dorgu was sent off just before halftime for a reckless challenge on Omari Hutchinson, leaving United a man down.
While the visitors sensed an opportunity, a defensive lapse allowed a loose ball from Philogene to evade everyone - including an out-of-position Onana - resulting in another goal for Ipswich.
Maguire was stepped up to make the difference for United shortly after half-time, as yet another Fernandes set-piece wreaked havoc in the Ipswich box. The Portuguese playmaker delivered a dangerous corner into the box, which Maguire expertly guided beyond Palmer with a well-placed header to bail his team out.
Despite late Ipswich pressure, United saw out a much-needed win - here are the player ratings.
- Manchester United Player Ratings (3-4-2-1)
Andre Onana - 3
Another game to forget for the Cameroonian goalkeeper. Was caught up in the mix-up with Dorgu that allowed Philogene to open the scoring and later watched helplessly as the winger’s tame delivery into the box drifted past him.
With such costly mistakes becoming all too frequent, a summer move for a new number one might be inevitable.
Leny Yoro - 7
One of the Frenchman's most promising displays in a United shirt to date. The defender was solid at the back and showed remarkable composure in possession. The 19-year-old is expected to have a bright future at Old Trafford.
Harry Maguire - 8
Neutralised former Manchester City striker Liam Delap, limiting him to few chances with dominant defending. Won everything in the air, composed in possession and of course, netted the decisive goal with a top-class header. A brilliant performance from the Englishman.
Matthijs de Ligt - 7
Generally solid defensively, although did lose Delap in the build-up to Philogene's goal. Made no mistake from close range to smash in United's second goal, and his second for the club since making the move from Bayern Munich in the summer.
Diogo Dalot - 5
It was another below-par performance from the 25-year-old, who has struggled to find form under Amorim. Initially deployed as a right wing-back before switching to the left flank following Dorgu’s dismissal, Dalot offered little in attack and was, at times, careless in possession.
Manuel Ugarte - 6
A dependable performance. Though not particularly eye-catching, the Uruguayan midfielder did the dirty work for the Reds in the middle of the park providing balance and defensive discipline, complementing the more attack-minded Bruno Fernandes.
Patrick Dorgu - 3
Has to take some of the blame as he passed the ball beyond the onrushing Onana to put Philogene's opener on a plate. Was rightly sent off by referee Darren England after a poor challenge on Hutchinson, which brought an end to a disastrous home Premier League debut for the 20-year-old.
Joshua Zirkzee - 7
Showcased flashes of quality as he linked play effectively in one of the two number 10 roles. Was forced to lead the line for the Reds after Rasmus Hojlund was substituted, despite proving in recent weeks he looks most effective playing deeper in Amorim's system.
Alejandro Garnacho - 6
Was unfortunate to be hooked off by Amorim following Dorgu's sending off and did not take it well, storming straight down the tunnel.
Looked threatening at times but failed to make a significant impact.
Rasmus Højlund - 4
Another underwhelming display from the Dane. The 22-year-old only touched the ball 12 times before being withdrawn in the 66th minute and failed to threaten the Ipswich backline throughout the contest.
With Højlund's poor form continuing, fans are beginning to question whether it is only a matter of time before exciting youngster Chido Obi is given the nod by Amorim up front, after recently making his debut against Tottenham Hotspur.
Substitutes
Noussair Mazraoui - 6
Was disciplined defensively when he came on and helped contribute to some attacks.
Casemiro - 6
Shored up United's midfield. Made some important tackles and interceptions but was loose with his passing at times.