Hull City 2 Man United 0
Like most Manchester United supporters, I looked forward to the start of the season with optimism.
The opening minutes saw United control possession, but the tempo was slow and there was little penetration. Hull gradually grew into the game and began creating chances, forcing Lammens into a couple of fine saves before United eventually conceded twice from set pieces.
It was a frustrating way to fall behind. The marking was all over the place. I hope I was mistaken, but it appeared that Maguire was marking Mazraoui, while Shaw lost his man far too easily.
Although I felt the match could still be turned around, I was surprised by the decision to introduce Rashford at half-time. Personally, I would have brought on the young and energetic Lacey on the wing to inject some pace into the attack. Unfortunately, Rashford’s runs failed to change the rhythm of the game. United looked sluggish throughout, losing most of the 50-50 battles and struggling to gain any control in midfield.
I was also puzzled that Kobbie Mainoo did not start if he was fit enough to play. We desperately need his qualities in the middle of the park. He is the type of player who helps the team tick and brings much-needed balance to the midfield.
Sadly, United rarely threatened in the second half. Although the Hull goalkeeper was forced into a couple of saves, the home side always looked comfortable. It was a lethargic display that lacked creativity, urgency and intensity.
With only one game played, there is still plenty of time to recover, but the match against Ipswich already feels significant. I believe that 20 points from the opening 10 matches would provide a strong platform for the season. United are already three points behind that target, but there remains ample time to make up the ground.
As for individual performances, none of the outfield players deserve more than a 5 out of 10. Lammens was the clear exception, producing several excellent saves and doing everything possible to keep United in the match despite the defensive shortcomings in front of him.
It was certainly not what we had hoped for at the Gozo branch of MUSC Malta. The place was packed, but we all left feeling disappointed at the final whistle. United need to inject far more energy, urgency and tempo into their next performance. Anything less than a victory will not be good enough if this team genuinely wants to demonstrate that it is ready to compete with the Premier League’s top clubs.
Numquam Moribimur!