Dorgu’s Volley Ends United’s Home Drought in Boxing Day Victory
Table of Contents
A stunning strike from Patrick Dorgu secured a vital 1-0 victory for Manchester United against Newcastle United on Friday, ending a two-month wait for a home win. The win, achieved despite the absence of seven first-team players including Bruno Fernandes, provides a much-needed boost for manager Ruben Amorim’s side.
The match, the Premier League’s sole fixture on Boxing Day, saw United rally despite a challenging team sheet. Amorim’s tactical adjustments, beginning with a back four, proved crucial in securing the triumph.
Dorgu Shines in Unexpected Role
Dorgu, deployed as a makeshift right winger, delivered a performance that belied his recent struggles with confidence. A source close to the manager revealed last month that the coaching staff had observed “anxiety” in the player whenever he touched the ball. However, those concerns were absent on Friday evening, as Dorgu’s spectacular volley secured all three points.
The Denmark international’s impact extended beyond the goal, with impressive defensive contributions helping United secure only their second clean sheet of the season. “He was an all-action display,” noted one observer.
Newcastle Pushed Hard at Old Trafford
Despite United’s victory, Newcastle proved a formidable opponent. Lewis Hall came close to leveling the score, striking the crossbar in a period of sustained pressure. Eddie Howe’s side, however, ultimately tasted disappointment on the road.
The match also marked the return of Lisandro Martínez to the starting lineup, with the defender wearing the captain’s armband in his first start in 327 days. Another alteration saw Casemiro go close with an early header, while Newcastle initially struggled to adapt to Amorim’s revised approach.
Late Drama and a Crucial Goal
The decisive moment arrived when a throw-in from Diogo Dalot found its way to Dorgu, who unleashed a crisp volley that beat Aaron Ramsdale, despite the goalkeeper getting a touch. While Ramsdale subsequently thwarted further attempts from United, the damage had been done.
The second half saw a change in momentum, with Newcastle controlling possession for extended periods. A penalty appeal for handball against Martínez was ultimately waved away after a VAR review.
A late substitution saw Jack Fletcher, son of former United favorite Darren, make his home debut. The game concluded with Amorim’s side defending resolutely against a determined Newcastle attack, with Lewis Miley firing wide in stoppage time. The victory provides a significant lift for Manchester United as they navigate a challenging period.
