By Kehinde Okeowo
Manchester United played away to London side, West Ham United with a chance to equal Liverpool’s points tally and possibly edge them on goal difference.
The red side of Manchester came into the game on the back of a surprising 2-1 defeat to Young Boys FC of Switzerland in the UEFA Champions League game played on Tuesday.
West Ham played the game without their in-form striker and leading goal scorer, Michail Antonio, who was sent off against Southampton in their last league game after receiving two yellow cards.
The away side began the game like a house on fire, but it was West Ham, the host , who scored the first goal of the match on the 30th minute after Saïd Benrahma’s shot was deflected into the net by Manchester United new defender Raphael Varane.
It took just five minutes for the red devils to return the favour when Cristiano Ronaldo equalized on the 35th minute for the visiting team. None of the teams could get another goal and the first half ended 1-1.
Second half began with both sides still unable to make a break through until substitute, Jesse Lingard, scored a late goal in the 89th minute to put Manchester United ahead 2-1.
There was, however, a moment of controversy during the extra time, when West Ham was given a late penalty after the referee had initially declined to award it, only to later give it on the advise of VAR officials.
West Ham Captain, Mark Noble, was brought in from the bench by his Coach, David Moyes, to take the penalty but Man United goalkeeper, David De Gea, saved it to preserve Manchester United’s lead and ensure a win.
OTHER EPL RESULT:
Brighton & Hove Albion 2 vs Leicester 1