Patrick Dorgu's Volley Secures Narrow 1-0 Win for Manchester United Over Newcastle United on Boxing Day
Patrick Dorgu's left-foot volley from the edge of the box gave Manchester United a 1-0 victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford, lifting United to a season-high fifth position in the Premier League standings.
Bruno Fernandes was unavailable for this match, marking the fourth time in five years he has missed a game; additionally, United were without seven players including Mbeumo, Mazraoui, and Amad Diallo who were on Africa Cup of Nations duty.
Manchester United lined up with a flat back four formation, deploying Dorgu as a right winger and Mason Mount as the attacking midfield orchestrator. Lisandro Martínez captained the side on his first start since February.
The decisive goal came from a sequence starting with Matheus Cunha's throw-in, followed by Diogo Dalot's lob into the Newcastle area, then Nick Woltemade's header to Dorgu, who struck a left-foot volley past goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
Newcastle dominated the second half and created several chances but failed to convert any. Hall struck the bar, and a potential handball by Schär was reviewed by VAR and deemed not deliberate.
Manchester United’s defense, previously a weakness with 30 goals conceded at kickoff, came under sustained pressure as Newcastle pushed for an equalizer late in the game.
Manager tactical changes included substitutions such as Joshua Zirkzee replacing Sesko and Leny Yoro replacing Casemiro, with Dorgu moving to the left wing. Notably, the Fletcher twins, Jack and Tyler, were among five academy players named on the bench for the first time.
Boxing Day’s sole Premier League fixture provided a tense and open contest despite Manchester United holding on for the win.
