Manchester United overturned a first-half deficit to thrash newly-promoted Ipswich Town 5-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, with a controversial second goal and a bold tactical change from manager Michael Carrick proving pivotal.
United recover after slow start
The Red Devils could not afford a second Premier League loss in as many games after being beaten on the opening day. When Ipswich took the lead, it looked like things could get worse. But in the second half, United played with freedom in front of the Stretford End, scoring five times to secure a convincing win.
Controversial goal stands after VAR check
United's equaliser came amid controversy. Harry Maguire won the ball back and fired towards goal, with his shot deflecting off Jacob Greaves on its way in. Despite a handball in the build-up, the goal was allowed to stand.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Gary Neville said: "If that shot had been on target it wouldn't have been a goal. VAR say to the referee 'hear me out and listen to me' because they know it's going to be complicated."
In a post on X, the Premier League Match Centre explained: "The referee's call of goal for Manchester United was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that Maguire was not the immediate goalscorer after an accidental handball."
Carrick's double change transforms game
The key moment came shortly after, when Carrick took the bold decision to replace both of his full-backs with Noussair Mazraoui and Leny Yoro. United fans saw it as a message to Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot, whose performances had left much to be desired.
From that point, United looked liberated, resembling the team that had the Stretford End dreaming last season. While the opposition were only newly-promoted Ipswich, and United are competing on four fronts this season, this was a step in the right direction for Carrick and his side – and a glimpse of what this United team could become.
