They made hard work of it, but Manchester United got there in the end against Leeds United.
In a high octane affair, some lax defending at the back proved crucial in deciding the outcome at Elland Road.
It all started so well for Manchester United, who took a 2-0 lead into the halftime break after goals from Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes. It was a deserved advantage, with the home side offering very little in the way of attacking threat over the opening 45 minutes.
However, things very quickly changed after the interval.
Leeds would get back into the game after a cross from Rodrigo somehow managed to find its way into the net beyond the grasp of David De Gea. While that was not exactly a disaster, conceding a second goal only a minute later put them in a difficult position.
WOW! 🤯
Incredible scenes as Leeds score TWICE in a matter of moments! First it's Rodrigo and then Raphinha slides in at the back post to level it! GAME ON! pic.twitter.com/8DIxskcDBW— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 20, 2022
The home supporters unsurprisingly rediscovered their voice during this period, with the game bring played at a ferocious pace despite the poor weather conditions.
However, Leeds' own struggles ensured United would emerge with the three points in the end. After a couple of very poor sequences of play at the back, goals from Fred and Anthony Elanga ensured the victory for the visitors.
This game continues to deliver! 😮
Manchester United retake the lead and it's Fred, just minutes after coming on, who SMASHES the ball into the back of the net to make it 3-2! pic.twitter.com/VB1I2kV1p7— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 20, 2022
While Manchester United have had their struggles under Ralf Rangnick, Fred is one player that has improved under the tutelage of the German.
Previously seen as someone who contributed very little to the team, he now looks more comfortable on the ball and has driven forward from midfield far more frequently than he did under the previous manager.
He might even be winning Roy Keane over.
Roy Keane cracks up Sky Sports studio with Fred compliment
Keane has been a vocal critic of the Brazilian over the last couple of seasons, although speaking on Sky Sports after today's game, he gave him some credit for the improvements he has made. He also jokingly passed off the blame for those previous comments to former Ireland teammate Robbie Keane.
"Fred's been criticised yeah, by Robbie." 🤣🤣
Which Keane was it again... pic.twitter.com/NF7BKHUsGG— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 20, 2022
Fred, to be fair, has definitely improved his end product over the last few months. He has got a got a couple of assists and a few goals.
Fred has been criticised yeah, by Robbie.
He's added a couple of goals to his game, a couple of assists. About time for him.
Roy Keane's comedic timing remains undefeated.
Fred might avoid the Cork man's criticism for now, but he will have to keep this form up in the long run to really convince him of his right to a place at Manchester United.
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