Manchester United demolished Leeds 6-2 in the first league meeting between the sides for 16 years to bolster their Premier League title aspirations on Sunday.
Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes scored twice as United’s counter-attacking threat tore apart Marcelo Bielsa’s attacking approach to move the Red Devils up to third, five points behind leaders Liverpool with a game in hand.
The much-anticipated clash as a historic rivalry was renewed lacked the fervour of a full Old Trafford in the stands, but more than delivered on the field.
There was little doubt about the result after just three minutes, though, as McTominay scored twice in an incredible start.
The Scotland international burst forward from his deep role in midfield to smash home Fernandes’s pass from outside the area and then slotted home Anthony Martial’s through ball.
Bielsa was among the finalists for FIFA’s coach of the year this week for guiding Leeds back to the top flight.
The victory lifts Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side above fourth-placed Everton on goal difference, while Leeds remains seven points above the relegation zone in 14th.
United had previously struggled to match their perfect away form in the league this season, but just a second win in seven games at Old Trafford propels Solskjaer’s men back into title contention as Tottenham, Chelsea and Manchester City have dropped points in the past week.
Defeat leaves Leeds still in 14th, but with a seven-point cushion above the relegation zone.
Leicester City had earlier on climbed to second in the Premier League when they beat bitter rivals, Tottenham to move four points behind leaders Liverpool.
Jamie Vardy scored a penalty and Toby Alderweireld scored an own goal to gift the Foxes the victory.
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Agbelusi Samuel is a campus journalist, writer, red carpet host, political and sport analyst. A political science student that covers news and politics beats for AAUA INSIDER.