Ruben Amorim’s first game as Manchester United manager could hardly have started better.
Sunday’s match at Ipswich Town was just 80 seconds old when Marcus Rashford found the net after a fine assist from Amad Diallo.
But then came the reality check. Ipswich forced multiple saves from Andre Onana before the Red Devils goalkeeper was finally beaten by a long-range effort from Omari Hutchinson late in the first half.
There were no more goals after the break, but there was plenty of food for thought as Amorim watched intently.
Mail Sport’s CHRIS WHEELER was also an enthusiastic spectator at Portman Road.
Read on for his report, based on Amorim’s original assignment.
New manager Ruben Amorim pictured during his first match in charge of Manchester United
United made an excellent start, but Ipswich fought back and Amorim had to settle for a point
Marcus Rashford opened the scoring at Portman Road in Ipswich after just 80 seconds of play
ANDRE ONANA A-
Two fantastic saves from Delap and solid distribution, but no chance due to Hutchinson’s deflected equalizer.
NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI B
Played as a third central defender in Amorim’s 3-4-3. Provided the pace and was unlucky to get a tap on Hutchinson’s shot.
MATTHIJS DE LIGT B-
Arguably the only first-choice centre-back to start, but he had his hands full in a heavyweight match with Delap.
JONNY EVANS C
Quiet presence at the back, but a lack of pace was evident at times and he was replaced by Shaw early in the second half.
AMAD DIALLO B+
Switched to right wing-back and made an immediate impact with an early assist. Less comfortable when you have to defend.
CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN C
Had little impact on the game before it went off. His place will probably be most threatened now that Mainoo is fit again.
CASEMIRO C
Chosen for Ugarte, but replaced by the Uruguayan in the 56th minute as Amorim tried to gain more control of the match.
United goalkeeper Andre Onana made five saves as Ipswich’s attackers kept him busy
Jonny Evans, who started in the back three, was seen (right) clashing heads with Liam Delap
Casemiro (right) was included in United’s starting XI, but was subbed off in the 56th minute
Danish playmaker Christian Eriksen (right) had little influence on the match before coming off the pitch
Sunday’s 1-1 draw leaves United twelfth in the Premier League with sixteen points after twelve games
DIOGO DALOT B
Solid on the left, but won’t need to play there much longer with Shaw and Malacia back on the bench. Missed chance in the first half for goalkeeper.
BRUNO FERNANDES B+
United’s brightest creative spark in a wider role. Had a hand in goal and went close with a late free kick.
MARCUS RASHFORD B-
Got the nod as centre-forward and scored after 120 seconds, giving Amorim a dream start. Then it faded away and has a lot more to offer.
ALEJANDRO GARNACHO C
Started on the left and switched to the right, but couldn’t take several chances to break through on goal.
SUBS:
Hojlund (for Rashford 68) B, Shaw (for Evans 56) B, Mount (for Garnacho 86) B, Ugarte (for Casemiro 56) B, Zirkzee (for Eriksen 68) B-