Football is a cruel game and after defending manfully for 93 mins Hull City were undone when Marcus Rashford scored a tap in from a hopeful Rooney cross. Up until then City were magnificent in defence against a star studded Manchester United and in all honesty deserved a point.
Mike Phelan reverted to his Premier League side with Jake Livermore retaining his place in defence despite Harry Maguire being fit again.
As expected Manchester United came at City from the start but it took them 16 mins to win a corner that came to nothing.
An overzealous Fellaini was booked on 23 mins for a rash challenge. City won a free kick a minute later which Snodgrass put just wide of the right hand post.
Ibrahimovic had a chance on 42 which he pushed wide when well placed.
Hernandez had a chance just before halftime but his shot lacked power and was easily saved by De Gea.
HT Hull City 0-0 Manchester United
Snodgrass had injured himself late in the first half, colliding with a goalpost in an attempt to score. He resumed after a 2 min delay but 3 minutes into the second half was replaced by Maloney.
City seemed able to repulse every United attack and won a free kick just outside United’s box on 71 mins. Maloney took it but it rebounded off the wall to safety.
A free kick by Huddlestone deflected off a defender on 74 and went narrowly wide.
Meyler was booked on 77 mins Pogba had a chance just after but shot 5 metres wide.
Rashford came on to replace Mata and soon had a chance that was well saved by Jakupovic. Another good save followed soon after.
3 minutes of injury time was shown and in the 1st minute David Meyler had a good chance but blazed over when well clear.
A minute later a slip by Elmo allowed Rooney to cross the ball in the box and Rashford was on hand to slot the ball home.
Full time Hull City 0-1 Manchester United.
So a magnificent defensive performance ended in defeat but every one of City’s players can be proud of their efforts especially Curtis Davies who was MOTM.
Still there was one bit of good news, it sounds as if the Allams are finally on the way out. Give Phelan the job, he is tactically superb and get 2 forwards, 2 midfielders and 2 defenders before the transfer deadline closes.
Tony Atkin
27.08.16
