Rashford hope, Garnacho joy, striker question - Man United response after Brentford win

Manchester United came from a goal down to beat Brentford 2-1 on Saturday in the Premier League.

The Reds trailed in the closing stages of the first half when Ethan Pinnock headed home with United angry that Mathis De Ligt was forced off the field to attend to a bloodied head injury. The hosts recovered after the break as goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund secured a vital three points.

It was a much improved performance in the second half from Erik ten Hag's side and many United supporters were pleased with the performance. Here's how Manchester Evening News readers assessed the game, commenting on our player ratings.

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FreddiePayne: An ok first half, not great but decent enough, apart from the extra time defending for their goal. That was poor. Second half much improved and well deserved win over all. Garnacho probably our best player, however Rashford put in his best shift for a long time and was really close to Garnacho’s performance. He worked very hard, for a change.

"Defensively we were good, especially in the second half. De Ligt was good as were Evans and Dalot. Martinez quietly had a good game too, his performance was under the radar, but impressive. Midfield is still a problem IMO, but maybe if Ten Hag would trust Ugarte more (and he’s fully fit) then we will see an improvement. I assume he was benched due to getting a knock midweek.

"Hojlund and Zirkzee. For me Zirkzee holds up the ball better and brings others into the game, but he’s doesn’t look like a genuine striker, more of a playmaker. It would be interesting to see him play as a 10 rather than a striker. Perhaps with Bruno out for Fernebache, it might be an opportunity, and have Hojlund up front. Couldn’t hurt. Anyhow, 3 points is great. Downside is that it might just extend Ten Hag’s time with us."

Jungle Jerry: "A good performance by the players today, especially in the 2nd half. They played with more determination and desire. A lot more intensity in the 2nd half. They covered their positions and positions where a team mate had gone out of position chasing the ball.

"Casemiro and Eriksen were very good today. The best they've been in a long time! Rashford and Fernandes changing positions and still playing well. Rashford was putting some good passes and crosses into the box too and it was a good assist for Garnacho. Garnacho was outstanding! He put crosses in, which was something that had been missing in United's game. He deserved his goal too!

"Has something clicked for Højlund? He had some excellent touches that took him and the ball away from his marker and that goal was so cool and calm! Dalot defended well and made a nuisance of himself in attack early in the 2nd half. Evans and De Ligt were in control and Martinez defended well at LB. Good save from Onana too. If they can play like this, every game, till the end of the season, they will play United into the top 6. My MOTM is Garnacho."

panchopearson: "A real improvement in the second half. I thought the front three were much better and although Rashford didn't score, I think that was one of his best performances for a long time. Really good cross for the first goal. De Ligt and Evans both played well together. On Thursday with Bruno suspended, I would like to see Amad play in the number 10 role."

Daves: "Erikson is playing well, & had a hand in both goals. It makes such a difference when he's on song, because he's a delightful footballer who sees openings, that other players can't see."

FrankM16: "Well done lads!! The front 3 are starting to look like the real deal and Rasmus and Marcus looked much better. DeLigt has been targeted since he arrived but showed today he's a warrior. Just need Bruno to get back to his best form and start scoring oh and a left back please!"