Manchester United survives impressive comeback from Newport after former dairy worker almost secures the result
Manchester United avoided a humiliating replay against Newport County after second-half goals by Antony and Rasmus Hojlund secured their place in the FA Cup fifth round. The Red Devils let a 2-0 lead slip, but Antony’s decisive tap-in and Hojlund’s injury-time goal sealed the win. Trust the FA Cup to throw up a mad story. Will Evans, who scored for Newport, was working on a farm three years ago before becoming an FA Cup scorer against one of England’s biggest clubs.
Lisandro Martinez and Bruno Fernandes showed leadership by scolding teammates during the match. Martinez confronted goalkeeper Altay Bayindir after a string of mistakes, while Fernandes was furious with Alejandro Garnacho for failing to make a simple pass, allowing Newport to get back into the game. Antony’s first goal contributions of the season were crucial in dragging United through the match, as he had not scored or assisted a goal before this game. Bayindir had a nervy debut, making several sloppy passes and unsettling the back four.
The match also raised questions about where Marcus Rashford fits into the United team, as the front three of Garnacho, Hojlund, and Antony appeared more fluid than any attack featuring Rashford had all season, pointing towards a younger and more dynamic trio that suits the team’s preferred system.
