Manchester United made it 10 consecutive home wins as they beat Manchester City 2-1 in a Manchester derby and after the game Erik ten Hag spoke about his satisfaction of his side’s victory.
Goals from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford helped clinch all three points against the Citizens as ten Hag’s side completed a remarkable turnaround.
Fighting through the pain barrier to win the Manchester derby.
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— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 14, 2023
United’s victory over City now means that the Reds are just one point behind their neighbours in the Premier League table.
Ten Hag was pleased with his how United played in the first half in particular, where United had good chances to open the scoring but they were not taken.
“The first half, we played very well. We defended very well and were proactive. We break quickly, with opportunities we create on the break, so I was really happy at half-time with that. We should be 1-0 up but wasn’t. After half-time, we had to sub Anthony Martial because he had some complaints. It changed the game and we were not proactive any more. Just before I want to change, they score” [via Man Utd].
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— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 14, 2023
He was asked about Fernandes’ equaliser, which caused some debate within the media. The United manager says that he can understand why City would be disappointed about that goal being given.
“If you are the opposition, I can see the team are unhappy with this situation but Bruno was scoring from the back and not in an offside position. Of course, he brings hesitation from the centre-halves, to the opposition, and we take advantage. It’s a difficult situation. It’s a grey area. But, when you see back the approach, Bruno was in an onside position and he scored. I can see on the other side – it confused the backline, it’s clear but, also, that’s the rule. I would not be happy when my team, as well, concede a goal like this so I can see the disappointment on the other side but I can see the other side as well” [via Man Utd].
Next up for ten Hag and his team is an away clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, which kicks off at 8pm UK time on Wednesday night. The game will be shown live on Sky Sports for those in the UK.