Manchester United fell to an agonising 2-1 defeat at Brighton on Saturday, with a 95th-minute winner from Joao Pedro proving fatal.
It was a bitter pill for Erik ten Hag’s side, who had enjoyed an opening-day victory against Fulham at Old Trafford.
United played well – but they will be disappointed to come away with nothing – especially losing so late on and having a goal ruled out by VAR at a crucial juncture.
We look at five talking points from the defeat on the south coast.
Lacking a clinical cutting-edge
For all of the Red’s good play in the first half, the Seagulls held the lead at the interval through Danny Welbeck.
In truth, it perfectly illustrated the difference between the teams, with Welbeck finishing his side’s only big chance.
In contrast, United should have taken the lead after 13 minutes through Amad Diallo following a pristine Diogo Dalot delivery, but the Ivorian blazed his volley wide.
It was not for a lack of trying, with the 20-time English champions attempting 11 shots on goal. But, with only two finding the target, the final third issues are evident.
For those who spent time bemoaning Ramsus Hojlund throughout last season, his presence is lacking at the head of the front line.
Reasons to be positive in defeat
Make no mistake, United played well on the day and deserved more. They were solid, well structured and looked to have a clear game plan.
There was a sense of purpose and energy about the team that starkly contrasted to last season.
I certainly wouldn’t be too disheartened because, on another day, the result would have gone the way of the Old Trafford outfit.
There were enough positive signs to make me feel optimistic about the direction we are heading in.
Defensive lapses prove costly
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the match was the defensive errors that led to Albion scoring both of their goals – as these mistakes were utterly avoidable.
Both strikes came from slack marking, with the defence completely switching off.
Hopefully, it’s just a matter of players getting back up to full fitness and ironing out some kinks.
But, it is still very worrying to see individual and collective errors directly leading to goals.
Rashford looks low on confidence
It was another disappointing afternoon for homegrown forward Marcus Rashford, who, after a bright enough start, faded in the second period before being withdrawn.
It certainly feels like a critical campaign for the England star, and given his poor form last season, one wonders how long more Ten Hag will continue to show faith in the 26-year-old.
The away fans called for Alejandro Garnacho‘s introduction, and it was surprising that Rashford lasted as long as he did.
We can only hope the Wythenshawe lad can turn things around sooner rather than later.
A mixed bag for Amad Diallo
It was somewhat of a varied afternoon for Amad – who was mourning the very recent loss of his stepmother.
The winger should have opened the scoring but failed to trouble the goalkeeper with a gilt-edged opportunity.
However, the Ivorian persevered and was always a threat down that right-hand flank – cutting inside to nab a brilliant equaliser for his team in the second half.
The 22-year-old was a continuous outlet for Ten Hag’s men – and will no doubt look to continue his impressive start to the season in the hope of making the right-wing spot his own on a more long-term basis.
What did you make of the game? Were United unlucky against Brighton, or did they not do enough to get a result?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our social channels.
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