Manchester United finish season with win against Watford
By Wyatt Miner
Manchester United finish the 2017/18 season in decent form, securing a 1-0 win against Watford FC.
While Manchester United won the match, Watford posed a decent threat when on the ball. Furthermore, United faced a few good chances from the mid-table team, but Watford could not find the back of the net. In the end, United finished the game winning 1-0, but the game surely should have ended in a tie.
In a rare Premier League appearance, Sergio Romero received the start from Jose Mourinho. Also, Daley Blind also made an appearance, as he was injured for the majority of the season. Scott McTominay disappeared from the team sheet for a while, but he got a starting role in the Watford match. This game posed very little importance for Jose Mourinho, so he started players that would not normally play.
United appeared to take a more relaxed role in the game, absorbing offensive pressure as they normally do. However, Manchester United actually kept possession of the ball more so than Watford did. In fact, United had 52% possession, and recorded 7 shots. Only one of those shots were on target.
The game started off slow, but the two teams grew into the game. Michael Carrick received the start in his last ever match as a professional footballer. In addition to his starting position, he played a role in United’s first goal.
For instance, Carrick sent a chip over the top of the Watford defense. The ball fell at Juan Mata’s feet, and a simple square pass allowed Marcus Rashford to find the back of the net. Additionally, Rashford’s goal stood as the only shot United had on target. Carrick ended his professional career on a high note, playing a role in United’s only goal.
Manchester United won the match, but Watford tested Romero multiple times.
In the first half, Romero faced a header from Watford from point blank range. The Argentinian goalkeeper looked similar to David de Gea when he dove across the goal line to keep the ball out. Shortly after the heading attempt, Watford ripped a shot at Romero, but he comfortable made the save.
Even though de Gea earned a spot in the team of the year, Romero made a great statement in one of his few Premier League starts.
Next: Manchester United battle Watford in last Premier League match
United finished the season in second place, and supporters rejoice because it appears that the club is moving towards better times. Now, Mourinho must focus his time and energy on the FA Cup final against Chelsea. The only way to complete this season is to finish with silverware. Perhaps Manchester United can make a case for the Premier League championship next season.