- Manchester United beat Liverpool
- Several stars caught the eye
- Champions League qualification confirmed
In one of the most chaotic games of football Manchester United came out on top with a 3-2 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford. A game of two halves saw the hosts dominate in the first half but the visitors come back into proceedings in the second.
Matheus Cunha gave United the lead in the sixth minute, scoring on his return after missing a 2-1 win over Brentord on Monday. Michael Carrick’s men were relentless and found a second in the 14th minute when Benjamin Sesko bundled the ball over the line.
Sesko was unfortunately forced off at half-time and Amad came on in his place. The team’s shape changed and suddenly it was Arne Slot’s Reds who were superior.
They were helped back into the game in the 47th minute. Amad gave the ball away and Dominik Szoboszlai eventually found the bottom corner of Senne Lammens’ net.
A moment of madness from Lammens then allowed Cody Gakpo to equalise in the 56th minute. The Belgian goalkeeper’s poor pass out was pounced on and the Dutchman netted.
But Kobbie Mainoo marked his contract extension by confirming United’s return to Champions League football. He scored a superb 77th minute winner as the Red Devils marched on to three points.
Man Utd 3-2 Liverpool – A Heavenly Display
While the likes of Cunha and Fernandes might get the plaudits, Ayden Heaven was simply outstanding once again. The youngster has recently been handed game time due to Lisandro Martinez’s absence.
Heaven made three clearances, four recoveries, won all five of his ground duels and his one aerial duel. Even going forward he looked confident, driving forward with purpose and looking tidy in possession.
It’s easy to forget the former Arsenal academy gem is only 19. He plays with such maturity that you’d think he’s spent years playing in the United defence.
Man Utd Fans Applaud ‘Brick Wall’ Heaven
United fans were blown away by Heaven’s performance and made sure to highlight it on X. One fan wrote: “Ayden Heaven has been a BRICK WALL.”
Another added: “Ayden Heaven should never forget any reason except resting be dropped form the starting eleven.. He’s been class since forever and he deserves to start always.. Next season is solid defensively already, now let’s hope Yoro can step up too and we are good for ages..
One supporter spoke glowingly: “Never fazed by the occasion. Unassuming in the ‘hard’ work. Brilliant anticipation in key areas. Ayden Heaven is a very rare breed.”
Another added: “Ayden Heaven needs to relax and stop toying with their forwards… my man thinks he’s Maldini.”
One wrote: “Ayden Heaven looks like a bonafide star at the back for Manchester United.”
Heaven made his 17th league appearance of the season and Carrick now has a difficult decision to make. Does he bring Martinez back into the team or persist with the rising star.
