Manchester United endured a 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday evening despite dominating the fixture for 80 minutes.
Erik ten Hag’s side put former goalkeeper Dean Henderson under severe pressure but somehow failed to find the back of the net.
The Red Devils had numerous first-half opportunities to score – not least when Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes saw efforts hit the bar.
Andre Onana was called into action in the second period, and the Cameroon keeper pulled off a stunning double save to deny the hosts.
Here are five talking points from a frustrating evening in South London.
An abundance of opportunities but no finishing touch
United created multiple openings against the Eagles but couldn’t find that all-important breakthrough.
Garnacho and Fernandes were denied by the woodwork, and Henderson also pulled off a string of saves.
It’s a pity one of those missed opportunities didn’t go in, as the 20-time English champions deserved to win the game on the balance of play.
While it is disappointing that the team couldn’t keep up their recent hot streak in front of goal – it’s also comforting knowing the side is creating chances.
Obviously, the players need to be more clinical, but it’s a positive sign that opportunities are being crafted regularly.
Ten Hag’s style of play is clear to see
The former Ajax manager got his tactics right on the day, particularly in the first half – with his side building up patiently from the back and passing through the midfield, which, in turn, created several opportunities for the forward players.
It was a dominant opening 65 minutes from the Old Trafford outfit, who should have capitalised on their excellent play.
We are yet to see this style shine through consistently during the gaffer’s tenure, but there are clear signs this season.
Naysayers will inevitably bemoan the result, but something is beginning to click for this team, and a visible play style is developing – which is a major positive.
Christian Eriksen again justifies his selection
It was a third start in a week for the Danish playmaker, and he once again took his chance with both hands – delivering a fine performance in midfield alongside Kobbie Mainoo.
The 32-year-old was a constant creative outlet throughout his 76 minutes on the pitch, and it was evident that United missed his vision and clever passing after he was substituted.
It may surprise many that the former Tottenham talisman has been handed a run in the side, with some having already written off his career in Manchester.
However, he deserves credit for reigniting his hopes and reminding everyone that he is still very much a genuine option in the squad.
Andre Onana continues his recent good form
Onana followed up last weekend’s impressive performance with another fine display at Selhurst Park – making crucial interventions for his side and keeping another clean sheet.
The 28-year-old saved a penalty against Southampton a week ago, and he made an incredible double stop to deny Eddie Nketiah and Ismaïla Sarr – when a Palace goal looked almost certain.
It’s nice to see the Cameroon international looking solid and dependable between the sticks.
Hopefully, he can build on this recent good form and put any lingering doubts to bed.
Frustrating result – but a vast improvement on last visit to Selhurst Park
Without a win at this venue since July 2020, United returned a far greater performance than May’s capitulation.
Ten Hag’s troops exuded far greater confidence on the ball and were more compact and controlled proceedings for the most part.
The players fought for each other and, unlike last season’s equivalent, won plenty of their duels.
On another day, the visitors would have come away with a couple of goals and a win. Unfortunately, we are instead talking about missed chances and an underwhelming scoreless draw, which speaks volumes.
As previously mentioned, it is of critical importance that United become more ruthless – and start turning these promising performances into victories.
What did you make of Manchester United’s outing at Palace – did they deserve to win, or was a draw a fair result?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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