From Casemiro’s towering header to Bruno Fernandes chasing Premier League history, Old Trafford is buzzing again; Yankee Scores reports…
Manchester United are on the brink of returning to Champions League after beating Brentford 2-1 at Old Trafford.
Clinical First Half
The clinical finishing in the first half and wastefulness from Brentford earned United three points despite a tensed ending courtesy of a Mathias Jensen stunner.
With this result, Manchester United are just two points away from sealing a top 3 finish that will guarantee their return to Champions League.
Michael Carrick, interim boss is now close to his target when he was appointed.
Casemiro Scores Again
A fast start to proceedings had United fans scratching their heads as to how they weren’t in front inside the opening two minutes. Kobbie Mainoo’s incredible solo run teed up Amad Diallo from close range, but the Ivorian’s effort was cleared off the line by Sepp van den Berg.
The hosts didn’t have to wait long to take the lead though. Some uncharacteristically poor set-piece defending from Brentford saw Casemiro head home yet again at the back post to continue his fairy tale ending at Old Trafford.
Casemiro heads Manchester United in front. Credit: X
The Bees responded in positive fashion and could have easily scored a handful of goals if not for a combination of Ayden Heaven, Senne Lammens and Igor Thiago’s finishing costing them.
United reminded them how to be clinical in front of goal just before the break as Fernandes set up Benjamin Sesko to double the lead. It was Fernandes’ 19th Premier League assist of the campaign – one away from the record set by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
Brentford Halve Deficit
Jensen smashed home a brilliant effort from distance in the 87th minute to restore some late hope for the visitors.
The Red Devils held on to the slim lead to move 11 points clear of sixth-placed Brighton. They are now within touching distance of making a Champions League return. Brentford, meanwhile, remain in ninth, two points behind the Seagulls and a spot in next season’s Europa League.
