90min

Twitter reacts as Man Utd edge dramatic derby against Leeds

By Matt O'Connor-Simpson

The difference makers
The difference makers / Shaun Botterill/GettyImages
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And breathe Manchester United fans...

The history books will record this as a 4-2 away win against bitter rivals Leeds, but that does not tell the whole story. The game was full of plenty of twists and turns and United did their best to put their supporters through the wringer once again.

The fact that this was a fierce derby was not lost on either set of players. Right from the outset there was plenty of needle with tackles flying in under the encouragement of the capacity crowd.

Paul Pogba got off to a terrific start, as did Scott McTominay – who was eager to impose himself on the Leeds' midfield.

The first shock (of many) in this game came just after the half-hour mark. Much has been made of United's frankly disgusting set-piece record this season, but they finally converted from a corner through Harry Maguire against Leeds.

The under-fire Red Devils captain rose high to meet Luke Shaw's cross, sparking wild celebrations in the away end.

United managed to get another just before the break with Bruno Fernandes heading home Jadon Sancho's inch-perfect cross.

Not a bad opening period from a red perspective then.

As always with Man Utd though, the good vibes did not last forever. Just a few minutes into the second half they were hit with a double hammer-blow, with Leeds netting twice in just 24 seconds.

Wow.

As you might expect, Twitter promptly exploded.

Things were not looking good for United. Fortunately, they found salvation in a very unlikely source – Fred.

The Brazilian midfielder was surprisingly introduced for Paul Pogba partway through the second half, and Ralf Rangnick's gamble paid off when he popped up to make it 3-2 to the visitors.

The game was then put beyond all doubt in the closing stages when Anthony Elanga netted a fourth goal.

A fitting end, as Elanga had been struck by a missile in the aftermath of Fred's goal.

For United then, it was an important if not entirely convincing result as they strengthened their top-four credentials. Leeds however, remain in the relegation mire.

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