Manchester United's pursuit of a top-four finish was dealt another frustrating blow on Wednesday night, as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Burnley at Turf Moor. The result marked a disappointing start for caretaker manager Darren Fletcher, who took charge following the recent sacking of Ruben Amorim.
A Night of Two Halves for United
The visitors made a disastrous start to the match, falling behind after just 13 minutes. Burnley's Bashir Humphreys easily bypassed a static Casemiro, and his low cross was turned into his own net by Ayden Heaven, who was criticised for turning his back on the ball.
United improved after the break and turned the game on its head with two quick-fire goals from Benjamin Sesko. The striker first finished coolly from a Bruno Fernandes pass, before expertly heading home a pinpoint cross from Patrick Dorgu within the first 15 minutes of the second half.
Defensive Lapses Prove Costly
Despite seemingly being in control, United's defensive frailties resurfaced to gift Burnley a point. With the hosts offering little threat, Lisandro Martinez was far too passive, allowing Jaidon Anthony ample space inside the penalty area to turn and curl a fine equaliser past Senne Lammens.
The draw leaves United's Champions League qualification hopes hanging by a thread, with dropped points against teams in the lower half of the table proving a persistent issue this season.
Manchester United Player Ratings at Turf Moor
Senne Lammens - 6
Could do little about either goal. Distribution was generally sound.
Diogo Dalot - 6
Tidy in possession but was often isolated due to United's narrow attacking shape.
Ayden Heaven - 5
At fault for the own goal, failing to block the cross effectively. Showed some aggression but it was a tough night.
Lisandro Martinez - 5
A poor performance by his high standards. Was culpable for the equaliser, giving Anthony too much room, and was erratic in possession.
Luke Shaw - 7
A positive influence going forward. Linked well with Dorgu and made intelligent runs to support the attack.
Manuel Ugarte - 6
Got into advanced positions and kept the ball moving simply. A solid, if unspectacular, outing.
Casemiro - 4
A shadow of the player he once was. Was bypassed with ease for the opening goal, booked, and looked off the pace throughout.
Bruno Fernandes - 7
Provided a moment of real quality with his assist for Sesko's first. Was United's chief creative spark and constantly demanded the ball.
Patrick Dorgu - 7
Caused problems from an unfamiliar left-sided role. His excellent cross for Sesko's second was a highlight.
Matheus Cunha - 6
Quieter than in recent weeks. Struggled to influence the game from the right or later through the middle.
Benjamin Sesko - 8
By far his best display in a United shirt. Took both goals superbly, led the line with strength, and could have had a hat-trick.
Substitutes
Leny Yoro - 6
Came on in defence and was adequate.
Mason Mount - 6
Could not match Fernandes's influence after coming on.
Kobbie Mainoo - 6
Played in a deep role and tried to get on the ball.
Joshua Zirkzee - 6
Had a couple of half-chances but failed to convert.
Shea Lacey - 7
Looked bright and was unlucky not to score after a clever run and shot.
