Manchester United had a difficult afternoon at Old Trafford on Sunday, as Southampton held them to a goalless draw.
Due to Southampton’s dismal form before this weekend, Erik ten Hag’s team was the favorite to win the Premier League match.
With only six league victories to their name, the Saints entered the contest on Sunday at the bottom of the standings.
But, United was unable to overcome their tenacious defense line.
In fact, Southampton will be miffed at their inability to capitalize on Casemiro’s dismissal in the opening period, especially after James Ward-Prowse and Kyle Walker-Peters both hit the post.
In a Manchester United uniform, Casemiro had already received two cautions this year.
Ten Hag’s decision to start Rashford, Fernandes, Weghorst, Antony, and Sancho would have stunned United supporters.
Before this match, the Saints had given up 41 goals in 25 Premier League games.
Sancho held the No. 10 spot, therefore Fernandes was used in a deeper role just ahead of Casemiro.
To the joy of the crowd, Ten Hag refrained from using Weghorst in the latter position and instead chose Rashford for the left wing position, which is where he prefers to play.
With so many talented attackers on the field, Southampton manager Ruben Selles could have been excused for worrying about an attack from the Carabao Cup champions.
But, the Red Devils were unable to restrain their visitors. For the first 30 minutes, Southampton controlled 48 percent of the ball and held Ten Hag’s team to only one shot on goal.
United appeared to be lacking in inspiration and ideas. Southampton, if anything, appeared to have the best chance of scoring.
Theo Walcott, a former Arsenal player who seems to be rediscovering his form under Selles, nearly scored when his header tested David de Gea into a save.
United’s start went from bad to worse in the 34th minute, when Casemiro was handed his marching orders for the second time in just over a month.
But, Taylor was instructed by VAR representative Marc Perry to review the challenge once more after which a red card was given.
Casemiro wrapped Alcaraz’s right leg in six studs, which was really shocking.
The United star appeared upset as he limped down the tunnel but had no complaints.
Since Nemanja Vidic nine years ago, Casemiro is the only United player to receive two red cards in a single Premier League season.
Undoubtedly, the former Real Madrid midfielder has strengthened United’s midfield, but he is also becoming a liability.
Southampton launched an attack in anticipation of a precious victory. Walker-Peters’ beautiful attempt blasted the post, while Ward-Prowse’s signature free kick struck the crossbar.
Fernandes also hit the woodwork at the opposite end. As the game went on, both teams kept looking for a victory, but to no avail.
Since they couldn’t get the three maximum points, Southampton remain at the bottom of the standings.
