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Manchester United’s away form under Ruben Amorim continues to be a source of encouragement, as Lisandro Martínez’s late winner ensured a 1-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage late on Sunday night.
Martínez who has got a knack for scoring crucial goals on the road, such as we saw in his stunning strike against Liverpool earlier this season. His winner against Fulham was a more fortuitous affair, but no less welcome for United.
The Argentine defender’s goal came in the 83rd minute, as he latched onto a loose ball and tried his luck. The ball looped up off Fulham midfielder Sasa Lukic and dipped into the far, top corner off Bernd Leno’s outstretched hand and the underside of the crossbar.
It was United’s only shot on target, and one of only four attempts they mustered all game. However, they defended resolutely and might have added a second goal had Amad Diallo’s smart finish not been ruled out for a marginal offside.
Fulham, meanwhile, will rue their inability to capitalize on a dominant first-half display. Alex Iwobi was a lively presence on the left flank, and forced a smart save from André Onana. Raúl Jiménez and Emile Smith Rowe also had opportunities, but were thwarted by United’s defense.
As the game wore on, Fulham’s attacking threat diminished, and United began to assert themselves. Martínez’s goal was the culmination of their growing pressure, and sparked jubilant celebrations among the United faithful.
The victory undoubtedly is a welcome boost for Amorim, who has faced numerous challenges since taking the reins at Old Trafford. United’s away form has been a source of comfort, with wins at Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City, as well as this hard-fought victory at Fulham.
While the performance was far from convincing, the result is all that matters for United. They will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures, as they seek to climb the Premier League table.
Fulham, meanwhile, will reflect on a missed opportunity to claim a valuable victory. They remain a tough nut to crack, having lost only two of their previous 15 matches in all competitions. However, they will need to be more clinical in front of goal if they are to achieve their ambitions this season.
The match was not without controversy, as United’s players were incensed by the decision to rule out Diallo’s goal. The youngster’s finish was impressive, but the linesman’s flag was raised, and the decision was upheld by VAR.
Despite the disappointment, United’s players remained focused, and being resolute and unyielding paid off in the end. Martínez’s goal came as a thirst being quenched, and they will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.
As for Fulham, they will look to regroup and refocus ahead of their next match. They have shown firm resilience and determination this season, and they will need to draw on those qualities if they are to achieve their goals.
The match may not have been a thriller, but it was a hard-fought contest that exhibited the tough nature of the Premier League.
