Manchester United passed their first real test of character under Michael Carrick as they battled to a 2-2 draw at Bournemouth. The interim manager's side, which had won 25 of 30 points in his first ten games, faced adversity after Harry Maguire's red card and a penalty, but held on for a point.
The match exploded into life in the second half when Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty after Matheus Cunha was fouled. However, the lead lasted only six minutes as Ryan Christie equalised for the Cherries. United felt aggrieved not to have been awarded another penalty moments earlier when Amad was brought down.
United regained the lead through a Fernandes corner that was headed into his own net by Bournemouth's Hill. But their advantage was short-lived as Maguire was sent off for bringing down Evanilson when clean through, conceding a penalty that Eli Junior Kroupi confidently dispatched.
Despite being down to ten men for the final 20 minutes and facing a buoyant Bournemouth side, United showed resilience. Key players like Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, and Luke Shaw stepped up to break up attacks and maintain possession, with the visitors even creating the better chances in added time.
Carrick, who was known as 'Mr Reliable' during his playing days, will be encouraged by the character shown. The performance contrasted sharply with the fragility of the Ruben Amorim era, and several players are growing into reliable roles in the current setup.
