The Cherries held The Red Devils to a 2-2 draw in a thrilling encounter at the Vitality Stadium.
Manchester United’s ongoing struggles were on full display as they managed only a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth.
The match featured numerous defensive lapses from Erik ten Hag’s side, notably allowing Dominic Solanke to open the scoring for the hosts in the 16th minute due to a sequence of errors by United’s back line.
The Red Devils found a temporary reprieve when Alejandro Garnacho assisted Bruno Fernandes, who equalized with a half-volley in the 31st minute.
However, their joy was short-lived as Justin Kluivert exploited gaps in the Manchester defense, restoring Bournemouth’s lead with a sharp drive into the penalty area.
Manchester United defensive woes lingers.
Former Manchester United defender and pundit, Rio Ferdinand, expressed shock at the number of chances the Red Devils conceded in the first half alone.
Only 12 shots at our goal in the 1st half….. 😳😱 #BOUMUN
— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) April 13, 2024
The second half saw United claw back into the game with Fernandes converting from the penalty spot after Bournemouth’s Adam Smith was deemed to have handed the ball in the box.
The game’s climax was steeped in controversy following a late foul by United’s Willy Kambwala on Ryan Christie.
Referee Tony Harrington awarded a penalty, but a VAR review by Jarred Gillett overturned the decision, citing the foul occurred outside the box. The subsequent free-kick failed to alter the scoreline, leaving both teams to share points.
This result does little to alleviate the pressure on Ten Hag, with Manchester United now sitting seventh in the Premier League standings, tied on points with Newcastle but trailing on goal difference.
The Red Devils must now regroup as they face Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-final next Sunday.
The performance at Bournemouth underlined the defensive frailties and inconsistency that continue to plague Ten Hag’s tenure.
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