NEWPORT, WALES – JANUARY 28: Antony of Manchester United celebrates scoring his teams third goal during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Newport County and Manchester United at Rodney Parade on January 28, 2024 in Newport, Wales. (Photo by Ryan Hiscott/Getty Images)
Manchester United avoided a scare in the FA Cup after defeating fourth tier side Newport County 4-2 on Sunday evening.
FA Cup
Result: Newport County 2-4 Manchester United
Date: 28 January 2024
Venue: Rodney Parade
United coach Erik ten Hag went a for a strong line-up that also included a debut for goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, while Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw were back in the starting line-up.
The Red Devils got off to the perfect start when Bruno Fernandes combined with Antony before drilling the ball into the bottom corner for his second goal in the competition.
The lead was doubled in the 13th minute when 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo bagged his first senior goal for the club with a composed finish from just inside the box after being teed up by Diogo Dalot.
United had a couple more chances to add to their lead, with Alejandro Garnacho going closest by cracking the crossbar from close range after breaking free down the left.
The home side did manage to pull a goal back ten minutes before the halftim break as Bryn Morris’ first-time volley took a deflection off Martinez’s head and sailed into the far corner, leaving Bayindir with no chance.
Newport did get back on level terms shortly after the break when in fortunate circumstance when Will Evans’ flick at the near post deflected past Bayindir, much to the delight of the home supporters.
United, who were left shocked, dominated thereafter and were rewarded with a third goal when Luke Shaw saw his curling strike hit the upright, before Antony was on hand to slot home from the rebound for his first goal of the season.
In attempt to see out the result, Ten Hag introduced Scott McTominay and Willy Kambwala for Casemiro and Shaw who both completed 80 minutes on their return to action.
United eventually wrapped up the victory in second-half stoppage time when Rasmus Hojlund poked home from close-range after Omari Forson’s initial shot was blocked.
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