The 1st 60th min was essentially the same, if not for DDG. However, we were much more discipline and at least not gifting goals like the last month or so. In fact, we kept a clean sheet, which was since when? It is painful to call this an achievement so no-one would drop any tears for Ole, something must be done, and Ole must take the blame, although Carrick, the team, must also be responsible.
Only positive point is Sancho, much more confident with the ball and tries to attack with the ball. Not sure it was Carrick or because of management change. VDB is still the invisible man though.
I wouldn't exaggerate how great Sancho was, but what matters is he's starting to look like something - this was a really good step in the right direction, and following on an impressive second half against Watford.
But I do think there were some additional positives.
- De Gea: World class save to keep us in the game midway through the second half
- Actually a really strong defensive performance by Lindelof, especially in the second half. Some good through balls too.
- Rashford and Bruno both looked energised and refocused when they came on. Doubt they'll start on the bench again.
- While not exactly a sterling performance by the midfield, they at least offered a little bit more than usual of the things they
can do well - Fred hounded the ball away from VR on both of our goals, and McTominay actually supplied some nifty incisive passing on a few occasions.
One I can't really get a handle on is Telles. Most every time he plays, you get a combination of enough exquisite crosses and offensive involvements to make you think there might be a real player there, but then he fades out and there is also always quite a few key defensive duels lost. Maybe he just needs a sustained run, I don't know.