In the biggest shock of the week, Manchester United lost 1-0 to Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
The result was not only a huge blow to United, who now find themselves in the battle for top four but also for fantasy teams with the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Alexis Sanchez and David De Gea.
Rafa Benitez got his tactics right against Jose Mourinho this time as he masterminded a crucial win for his side. Following the win, the Magpies have moved into the 13th spot with 28 points. Meanwhile, United sit second with 56 points, only four above Tottenham in fifth.
Despite adding Alexis Sanchez to their ranks in January, United have looked lethargic going forward in the recent weeks. The result against the Magpies was their second-consecutive away defeat in the league.
The Red Devils enjoyed 64.1% possession against the Magpies, but the hosts limited them to only four shots on target. Sanchez, who was guilty of missing an open net against the Magpies, has managed only one goal from the spot in his three league appearances for United.
The Chilean has proved to be a disappointment in fantasy football this season, and his move hasn’t helped him yet. He has managed only one point in last three fixtures. Lukaku hasn’t done much better of late as well and he has two goals in his last eight league appearances.
In the game against the Magpies, none of United players managed to register a fantasy point in the game.
Credit must also go to Newcastle players for pulling-off arguably their best result of the season. New keeper Martin Dubravka was spectacular in goal and marked his debut performance with three crucial saves.
The back-four of Paul Dummett, Florian Lejeune, Jamaal Lascelles and Deandre Yedlin was equally commendable in the game. Each one of them picked up five points from the game.
The hosts produced an incredible 47 clearances, as compared to United’s 17 in the game. They also made seven blocks and 12 interceptions.
Going forward, Newcastle didn’t provide much entertainment and could manage only three shots on target. However, it was enough for them to earn three points as their defence managed to keep a clean-sheet, and Matt Ritchie scored the winner from Dwight Gayle’s clever assist in the second half.
The winner was Ritchie’s first goal of the season, and he picked up six points from the game, making his way into our team of the week. Dwight Gayle also picked up a couple of points for his efforts.
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