Manchester United started the first half strong but was unable to find a breakthrough. Watford did not give De Gea much to worry about but, they were sturdy in defence and did not let United score.
Cristiano Ronaldo came closest to scoring in the 4th minute as he struck the inside of the post after meeting a cross from the right. A few minutes later, Cristiano’s Portuguese counterpart, Bruno Fernandes, came close after Elanga slipped him a pass, but he could not beat the onrushing Ben Foster.
The Red Devils tried multiple times to penetrate Watford’s defence but they stood strong and did not concede. Although Watford started the 2nd half on the front foot, United gradually dominated the game but to no avail. Watford conceded 47 goals this season, 3rd most in the league, but was rock solid against The Reds.
Multiple United forwards pushed hard for a goal, but most of them were half-chances and barely troubled keeper, Ben Foster. United had 15+ shots in the game, but only two were on target. Substitutes Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, and Jadon Sancho brought some fresh energy but failed to make the most of it. The hosts had plenty of opportunities to find the net, but Ronaldo, Fernandes, and Elanga were all guilty of misfiring. This could prove costly for them in the top-4 race, as Arsenal are only two points behind them with three games in hand.
United have little hope of finishing in the top 4 if they continue to stumble against inferior opposition. At this rate, they will just have to hope that other teams are unable to take advantage.
