Manchester United beat Northampton to set up Man City clash
Manchester United got back to winning ways against League 1 side Northampton Town in the EFL Cup, beating them 3-1, and were later drawn to play rivals Manchester City in the next round.
Manchester United made hard work of their task against minnows Northampton, but eventually prevailed, beating the courageous League 1 side 3-1. The Red Devils took the lead in the 17th minute when Michael Carrick’s beautifully taken finish. His goal came after the Northampton goalkeeper picked up a back-pass, giving away an indirect free-kick to United. Rooney’s set piece was blocked, and the ball fell to Carrick who scored past the goalkeeper with an elegant finish.
Northampton were then given a big chance when Daley Blind fouled Sam Hoskins inside the area. Alex Revell converted from the spot to pull the League 1 side level. This was not a night for an upset however. United dominated the second half, and ultimately got their reward.
Marcus Rashford teed up Ander Herrera, whose powerful drive fired United back in front. Marcus Rashford then got on the score-sheet when he tapped the ball into an empty net following goalkeeper Adam Smith’s blunder.
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Wayne Rooney who started the game up-front for United, endured another frustrating evening. The under-pressure captain missed a great chance early on, and failed to provide any spark to the United attack. It was only when Jose Mourinho brought Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcus Rashford on, that United started dominating the game.
Manchester clubs to face off in EFL Cup
United’s reward is a fixture against Manchester City in the next round of the EFL Cup. Manchester City, who beat Swansea City in their 3rd round tie, will travel to Old Trafford in the week commencing October 24. The two Manchester rivals were drawn together in the 4th round draw after the Wednesday fixtures. Liverpool will take on Tottenham Hotspur in the other big game of the round.
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