In a crucial match at Turf Moor, Manchester United managed to break their three-game losing streak by defeating Burnley 1-0.
Jonny Evans played a pivotal role, setting up Bruno Fernandes for a spectacular volleyed winner and relieving some of the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag.
Evans, making his first start for Manchester United in over eight years, delivered a precise pass to Fernandes with his left foot, setting up the crucial goal just before halftime (45).
This was after Evans himself had a goal disallowed for offside by VAR earlier in the match. Fernandes’ stunning strike provided the breakthrough after a tense first half.
Burnley showed early promise, with Zeki Amdouni testing Manchester United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana, who made an impressive save, and hitting the post.
Despite Fernandes also having a chance stopped by Burnley’s James Trafford, Manchester United struggled to assert themselves.
However, Burnley failed to recover from the setback, and Manchester United, while not at their best, secured a much-needed away win after conceding multiple goals in their previous three matches.
Evans’ inclusion in the lineup raised questions, but the experienced central defender delivered a solid performance that boosted Ten Hag following a challenging week.
Erik ten Hag had described this match as a must-win for Manchester United after a series of disappointing defeats. There were signs of improvement as they managed to regain possession from Burnley in their half early in the game, and Fernandes tested Trafford.
Burnley initially shrugged off their early mistakes and dominated the game. Onana, who had faced criticism, redeemed himself with a diving save from Amdouni’s header and then saw the Swiss forward hit the post.
Evans appeared to have scored for Manchester United with a header from Sergio Reguilon’s corner, but VAR disallowed it, citing an offside position by Rasmus Hojlund, who was impeding Burnley’s goalkeeper Trafford.
Despite VAR drama, Manchester United stayed focused, and Evans delivered a moment of brilliance by assisting Fernandes for a superb volley just before half-time. It was Evans’ first Premier League assist for United since February 2013 when he set up Wayne Rooney.
Burnley’s threat waned in the second half, and Manchester United had chances to extend their lead on the break but lacked the finishing touch. Despite some nervy moments, they held on to secure the win.
The victory moves Manchester United up to eighth in the Premier League, while Burnley remains at the bottom and continues to search for their first Premier League win since their promotion.
