Marcus Rashford unleashed a moment of pure magic to fire Manchester United to a crucial Premier League victory against Newcastle United in a tense encounter on Tyneside.
The England forward, who has endured a difficult season, silenced the St James' Park crowd with a breathtaking first-half strike that ultimately decided the contest. Picking up the ball on the left flank, Rashford drove infield, weaving past one challenge before unleashing an unstoppable, curling effort that flew past a helpless Martin Dúbravka in the Newcastle goal.
The Magpies, spurred on by a vociferous home support, threw everything at the Red Devils in the second half. Erik ten Hag's side, however, stood firm in the face of immense pressure, showcasing a resolute defensive performance that has been absent for much of their campaign.
Newcastle's Anthony Gordon was a constant menace, but the home side struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against a disciplined United back line, marshalled superbly by the returning Lisandro Martínez.
This hard-fought 1-0 win provides a massive boost for Erik ten Hag, easing the pressure on the Dutch manager and offering a glimmer of hope in United's push for European qualification. For Eddie Howe's Newcastle, it's a frustrating defeat in a season that has failed to hit the heights of their remarkable previous campaign.
The three points see Manchester United climb the Premier League table, as their late charge for a European spot gathers momentum.
