Manchester United were fortunate to avoid defeat at the death in what was a challenging 1-1 draw away at Bournemouth.
While Ruben Amorim’s team dominated up top, with a grandiose 25 shots on goal, they were largely inefficient with their chances, struggling to truly test the goalkeeper.
Still, a goal from Rasmus Hojlund deep in stoppage time was enough the rescue Man United from a crushing defeat.
Although several players were guilty of dropping disappointing performances, particularly up top, Alejandro Garnacho appeared alert and raring to pressure a resolute defence.
With a whopping eight shots on goal, five of Garnacho’s attempts were blocked by a resolute defence. He also had two shots saved by the goalkeeper and one shot off target.
One of United’s closest scoring opportunities of the match came from the Argentine winger, who got on the end of a surgical long-ball from Bruno Fernandes, beating the defence in the process.
Upon going one-on-one with the keeper, Garnacho tried to lob the Bournemouth shotstopper, only for his effort to be tipped over the crossbar.
As a result of his efforts, Garnacho had a 0.82 xG – the highest of any player from either team.
He also completed both of his dribbles.
With 20 of his 25 shots reaching their target, the winger’s passing was respectable, with an 80% passing accuracy. While he completed his only long ball of the game, he failed to complete any of his three crosses.
Garnacho completed four of his seven ground duels. While there may have been room for improvement, Garnacho put in a great effort to involve himself in United’s attacking play.
Still, he did not neglect his defence when called upon. The Argentine completed two interceptions to break down some of the home side’s attacking build-ups, while only being dribbled past once.
Garnacho also completed a key pass to top off what was a highly productive afternoon.
Although he is not yet scoring the amount of goals he should given his many opportunities, Garnacho is proving himself to be a hard worker and great attacking threat who will surely be a major asset to his team if he refines his shooting.
(Stats via Sofascore)
Feature image Ryan Pierse via Getty Images
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Mathew Cohen
A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.
