Manchester United finally gave the Old Trafford crowd something to cheer about with a 3-0 victory over Brentford, thanks to goals from Bruno Fernandes, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Raphael Varane
In what was Ralf Rangnick’s farewell home game, Manchester United put in one of their better performances at Old Trafford this season.
For United supporters who have spent the majority of the season watching a lackluster team, it has been a season to forget.
The Red Devils, on the other hand, gave them something to cheer about with a 3-0 victory over Brentford, with to goals from Bruno Fernandes, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Raphael Varane.
In the first half, Fernandes scored to end his goal drought, before Ronaldo doubled their lead from the penalty spot, making Brentford the 168th club he has scored against. Varane then sealed the three points by scoring his first goal for the club after the break.
Throughout the game, there were numerous major talking topics; here are a few that you may have missed.
Mata’s reaction to Ronaldo’s gesture
In the first half, Ronaldo and Juan Mata rolled back the years and were significantly involved in United’s attacks.
Mata, who is expected to play his farewell game at Old Trafford, made sure to give fans something to remember by popping up in hazardous spots. In a fantastic move with Ronaldo, he nearly increased the hosts’ lead after Fernandes’ opening. The Spaniard sent the ball to the 37-year-old, who displayed exceptional skill to find his teammate with a one-two.
Mata got his hands on it and attempted a goal, but his right-footed effort was a little crazy, as he slashed at the ball, sending it wide of the post.
Ronaldo was in high spirits after it, as he had been for the most of the game, as he flashed a big grin towards Mata, who returned the smile.
Ronaldo’s displeasure with VAR
Moments later, Ronaldo and Mata combined again, but this time the ball was in the net – only for VAR to rule it out for offside.
The former Chelsea midfielder made a darting run down the left flank and crossed a dangerous pass for Ronaldo to tuck home. It was classic Mata, and Ronaldo couldn’t contain his pleasure as he hugged his teammate instead of performing his trademark ‘Siu’ celebration.
However, joy was short-lived as VAR ruled it out for offside. It was the correct decision, but there wasn’t much to it, and Ronaldo was plainly annoyed by it, throwing his arms up in the air in disdain.
Ronaldo’s rant in the tunnel
At halftime, Ronaldo’s protests continued into the tunnel, where he appeared to be complaining about a penalty decision he never received in the first half.
After a challenge from the Brentford defender, the former Real Madrid striker went over in the box, although there was scarcely any touch. Appeals were turned down by referee Chris Kavanagh, but Ronaldo was sure that it was a penalty kick.
He made his case to Kavanagh as the teams came out for the second half, as he was caught chatting to the whistler.
Farewell to Matic and Mata
Both Nemanja Matic and Juan Mata appeared to bid farewell to the Old Trafford faithful as they were removed in the second half, despite the fact that both players are scheduled to become free agents in the summer.
As they walked away, they were greeted with a thunderous round of applause as the players expressed their gratitude to the fans.
With this being their final game at United’s home field, they proceeded to shake hands with a large number of the backroom crew. Mata has yet to sign a contract extension, while Matic has publicly stated his desire to depart.
Matic and Mata have both been outstanding services to the club and should be proud of their achievements, especially in their final home game.
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