Getty Images Manchester United avoid upset at League 2 Newport County in FA Cup Manchester United, the twelve-time FA Cup champions, surre...
Getty Images
Manchester United avoid upset at League 2 Newport County in FA Cup
Manchester United, the twelve-time FA Cup champions, surrendered a two-goal advantage before narrowly securing a 4-2 win against Newport County, a fourth-tier Welsh team, at Rodney Parade.
In the 68th minute, Antony found the net for Manchester United, who were the runners-up in the FA Cup last year, after Newport, situated 76 places below United in England's football hierarchy, had managed to equalize from being two goals behind.
"We maintained control of the game, perhaps we slowed down a bit," remarked United manager Erik ten Hag to the BBC. "We had the opportunity to go 3-0 up. Alejandro Garnacho hit the crossbar. Newport posed little threat, really nothing, and then they scored a goal."
Bruno Fernandes, 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, and Rasmus Hojlund also found the net for United. This marked the first time since 1970 (against Northampton Town) that United conceded two goals in an FA Cup match against a fourth-tier side.
Getty Images
"Obviously, it wasn't the ideal result for us. While we got the win we wanted, conceding goals wasn't part of the plan," commented United captain Fernandes.
"We understand that to salvage the season and improve its outlook, winning this trophy is crucial... We are aware of the significance of the FA Cup for our fans, our club, and the country, and it holds importance for us as well. Our aim is to reach the final and emerge victorious."
Despite goals from Bryn Morris and Will Evans, one on either side of halftime, which gave Newport genuine hope of securing a lucrative replay at Old Trafford, Manchester United's superior attacking prowess ultimately prevailed.
Newport manager Graham Coughlan stated to the BBC: "The better team emerged victorious; they were ruthless with their chances. At 2-2, when the ball hit the post and Antony scored, I thought we might be able to force a replay if we could withstand their pressure. However, their quality saw them through in the end."
No comments