February 07, (THEWILL) — Manchester United extended their flawless run under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, defeating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 at Old Trafford.
Spurs’ task became significantly harder when captain Cristian Romero saw red in the 29th minute for a reckless challenge on Casemiro.
United capitalised on their man advantage nine minutes later through a clever corner routine. Bruno Fernandes delivered to Kobbie Mainoo on the byline, and the midfielder’s cutback found Bryan Mbeumo, who finished cleanly from the edge of the box.
Goalkeeper Vicario kept his side in contention before the interval, denying Casemiro’s header.
The visitors survived offside decisions against Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha after the break, whilst Vicario produced sharp stops to thwart Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot from distance.
United found their second in the 81st minute when substitute Benjamin Sesko missed Dalot’s cross, allowing Fernandes to sweep the loose ball past Vicario at the far post.
Sesko headed directly at the Spurs keeper late on but the damage was done.
The result moves United to within three points of second-placed Manchester City, who face Liverpool on Sunday.
Tottenham’s struggles continue, and they could sit just six points above the relegation zone if West Ham overcome Burnley on Saturday.
Their defeat leaves them in a precarious position heading into the weekend’s remaining fixtures piling even more pressure on manager Thomas Frank.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
