Patrick Dorgu opened his Manchester United account with a stunning volley as the makeshift right winger inspired a 1-0 Premier League win over Newcastle on Boxing Day. The goal, his first for the club, ended United's two-month wait for a home victory at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim's side, missing seven first-team players including Bruno Fernandes, started with a back four and Lisandro Martinez captained the side on his first start in 327 days. Dorgu's first-half strike proved decisive after he collected a clearance and lashed the ball past goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
Newcastle pushed for an equaliser, with Lewis Hall hitting the crossbar from distance. The visitors also had a penalty appeal for handball against Martinez turned down after a lengthy VAR review. United held on, moving to a back five in the closing stages to secure just their second clean sheet of the season.
Benjamin Sesko had earlier hit the woodwork for United, while Casemiro and Matheus Cunha both went close. Eddie Howe's side continued to press but were unable to find a breakthrough, with Anthony Gordon and Lewis Miley both missing late chances.
