Manchester United 5–2 Ipswich Town

The belief was tested early against Ipswich. After a difficult opening-day defeat at Hull, United needed a response—but Ipswich began bravely and deservedly went ahead in the 29th minute. 

Luke Shaw was toasted on the flank and Davis finished after the good work from Abdul Fatawu, and for a few moments the MUSC in Gozo went quiet. We had seen United dominate possession before without making it count; the uneasy glances said it all.

Then Bruno Fernandes took over – and lady luick, I must add. 

Five minutes before half-time, a slip by Núñez allowed Cunha to find the United captain, who drove a left-footed finish home. The roar at the club was immediate and emphatic. It was more than an equaliser: it was the release of all the frustration that had built up since the previous weekend.

United emerged after the break with real purpose. Maguire gave us the lead  – or rather Jacob Greaves’ own goal put us ahead in the 56th minute and the momentum shifted completely. I must admit that I thought that the ball had touched Maguire’s hand but these days I am feeling out of touch with the new interpretations. 

Mimutes later, the same Greaves then brought down Cunha, and Bruno stepped up to convert the penalty in the 61st minute. By then, the chants had returned in full voice: our captain had turned anxiety into celebration.

Bruno completed his hat-trick in the 68th minute, calmly finishing after a crowded move in the penalty area. His performance was leadership, quality and conviction when the team most needed it.

Mbeumo added a fifth in the 82nd minute, lifting the ball over Ipswich goalkeeper Scherpen after another excellent Bruno pass. Ipswich scored a late consolation through Akpom after a defensive error by Martinez, the kind of error that drives managers crazy. 

The final whistle brought a deserved 5–2 victory: United’s first league win of the season, powered by a Bruno hat-trick, an own goal, and Mbeumo’s finish. There are still details to improve—particularly at the back—but this was a reminder of what this side can be when it plays with courage and purpose. A special mention goes to Mainoo who I thought was outstanding on the day and must start when he is fit. 

Everton next and we need to continue improving on the positive second half to get the 3 points on Merseyside….

Numquam Moribimur!