It is easy to see why Ruben Amorim has developed a love-hate relationship with his players after a 97th-minute Bruno Fernandes penalty controversially earned Manchester United’s first win of the season. The result should not have been in doubt but poor finishing and defending meant the hosts had to rely on the referee, Sam Barrott, to visit the pitchside monitor and overturn his own decision.
Josh Cullen’s own goal gave United a deserved lead they should have built on but Lyle Foster and Jaidon Anthony were twice allowed to equalise either side of Bryan Mbeumo scoring United’s second in 11 chaotic second-half minutes. The match was heading for a draw until it was belatedly judged that Anthony had pulled down Amad Diallo and the United captain did the rest to send Old Trafford wild, while Burnley fumed. But once again, as at Grimsby in the Carabao Cup, Amorim did not watch the penalty.
Things should have been far easier for United. There was an early intensity here as the supporters inspired the players and vice versa. The aggression on and off the field was designed to intimidate Burnley, and it had the potential to work. United had all the possession in the initial stages, and looked sharper in mind and foot than at Grimsby as they attempted to play through the visitors, creating numerous half chances without testing goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.
