United needed to stop the rot and they’re doing just that here. Another goal would ease nerves and put the game to bed. They’ve been the better side throughout, but it’s worth noting that Spurs have been very average. Solskjaer’s formation change is paying dividends, though.
This team might look like a defensive one on a teamsheet and with seven defensively-minded players it’s probably a fair accusation, but that goal is why it can work. The defence has been secure so far, as good as they’ve been all season, and even if there’s only three attackers on the pitch they all belong in the world-class category. It’s been a tepid game but at some point Fernandes, Cavani and Ronaldo were going to find a special moment.
I mused pre-match where the service would come from if Fernandes did not come up with something from nothing but he has there and so did Ronaldo. That was a magnificent goal and United’s approach play should not be forgotten there. They were patient and kept probing until the opening emerged.
United deserve the lead. They have looked much more cohesive and the formation has been completely justified. Withdrawing Fernandes has worked and the wing-backs have been supportive.
United have had more periods of controlling play than most might have imagined. They have more of an edge up front with Cavani starting and Tottenham’s defence seems detached from most of the front six and their back four have been so narrow when United cross into their territory, so Shaw and Wan-Bissaka are getting a lot of space. Both have performed decently up until now.
Goaaaaaal Edison cavani…what a great assist from CR7 ♥️? pic.twitter.com/wspsp72Ocn
— #Anoti-Bigdave??? (@Bigdave_zaddy) October 30, 2021