Patrick Dorgu scored his first goal for Manchester United as the club edged Newcastle 1-0 in a Premier League clash at Old Trafford on Friday, giving fans a festive lift.
The 21-year-old winger struck a 15-metre left-foot volley midway through the first half, securing United’s first home victory in four league games and moving the team above Liverpool into fifth place.
“It was a good hit. I didn't know I could do that," Dorgu said after the match.
United were without captain Bruno Fernandes, while several first-team regulars missed out due to injury or Africa Cup of Nations duty. Manager Ruben Amorim fielded an unusual back-four formation, yet it was a contest where Newcastle threatened to take control, particularly in the second half.
Mason Mount’s half-time withdrawal through injury further hampered United, with the visitors creating several chances. Lewis Hall saw a long-range effort hit the bar in the 62nd minute, and Anthony Gordon squandered another opportunity moments later. Joelinton’s late piledriver was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
United’s own attacking chances were limited. Diogo Dalot fired over from close range, but Dorgu’s strike proved decisive, giving the Red Devils a hard-fought win.
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Amorim will be encouraged by the composure shown by his young squad in maintaining the slender lead. Five academy players featured in the matchday squad, with England under-19 midfielder Jack Fletcher, son of former United player Darren Fletcher, introduced in the second half. Twenty-year-olds Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro and Tyler Fredricson also played key roles during the final 45 minutes.
Newcastle remain in 11th place, six points behind United, after a poor December in which they have won just one of five league matches.
“Second half was a lot better than the first from our perspective, but we didn't do enough," Newcastle coach Eddie Howe said. “I felt if we scored we could go on and win the game but it didn't happen. We're hugely disappointed. We got better in the second half and played with good rhythm, dominated the ball and it was just the goal that was missing.”
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