Manchester United’s 100% record came to an end this weekend when Stoke City held the Premier League leaders to a 2-2 draw at the bet365 Stadium.
The hosts took the lead late in the first half, but on the brink of half-time suffered a blow when Marcus Rashford’s deflected goal handed United an equaliser.
Then the tables turned in the second half when Romelu Lukaku’s fifth goal in four games was ruled out by an equaliser from Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who scored his second of the evening. United failed to unlock Stoke’s defence at the end and saw their run of three successive wins come to an end.
It was the first time this season Eric Bailly and Phil Jones were punished for mistakes. The pair got away scot-free against Leicester before the international break, but Mourinho now needs to prepare Victor Lindelof for Tuesday night’s Champions League tie against FC Basel — Saturday’s defensive pairing are ruled out through suspension.
United have not beaten Stoke since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in five attempts. Mourinho would have hoped that embarrassing statistic ended today, but it runs on another couple of months at least.
Corners
United took four corners in the first half; three of which went short before the ball was swung across the box. Finally, on the brink of half-time, United took their first direct corner and scored after a flick on from Nemanja Matic found Paul Pogba, whose header deflected off Marcus Rashford before finding the netting.
The height in this team allows Mourinho adopt a more direct approach, so it came as no surprise to see them score a first-half equaliser with an alternative method to going short.
Stat: United have now scored from a set-piece in all four games this season.
WD40 for Herrera?
It was telling from Ander Herrera’s performance that he is still rusty from the summer, which should be a given considering it was his first start of the season. The Spaniard did not appear to be playing at the same standard as his teammates, but that’s not overly concerning because he will eventually make up for lost minutes on the pitch.
Herrera, a key player last season, gives Mourinho something different in midfield. He’s not afraid to get stuck in, nor is he shy in the attack. If United are going to challenge on all fronts this season they’re better with than without Herrera in the team.
Brace for Choupo-Moting
What an exciting player Choupo-Moting looks for Stoke City. The former Schalke forward not only netted a brace against United, he was explosive and appeared ready to pounce whenever Eric Bailly and Phil Jones made mistakes.
It remains to be seen whether he can be a consistent performer for the Potters this season as he will need to adjust to life in the Premier League, although the early signs are good.
Man of the Match: Darren Fletcher
