Manchester United 3-0 West Ham: Garnacho hits double as Red Devils cruise past Hammers

Manchester United clinched their fourth victory in five matches in 2024 following a convincing 3-0 triumph over West Ham United, further extending the Red Devils' undefeated streak against the Hammers at Old Trafford to 16 league games.

Both teams started the game with great intensity, resulting in end-to-end action and both goalkeepers being tested. Alphonse Areola made a crucial save to deny Bruno Fernandes' curling effort from distance, while Andre Onana had to dive low to punch away Ben Johnson's shot.

Manchester United began to apply more pressure higher up the pitch, and their efforts paid off when Casemiro won the ball in West Ham's half and found Rasmus Hojlund. The Danish player displayed impressive skill as he evaded Nayef Aguerd and scored from the edge of the box.

Despite falling behind, David Moyes' West Ham responded well but couldn't find an immediate equalizer. Just before halftime, Hojlund came close to doubling United's lead with a shot from a difficult angle.

During the halftime break, Moyes made a goalkeeper substitution due to Areola's head injury. However, Lukasz Fabianski was soon picking the ball out of his net as Alejandro Garnacho's shot deflected off Aguerd, deceiving the Polish goalkeeper.

Knowing their vulnerability with a two-goal lead, United continued to search for a third goal but left themselves exposed at the back. West Ham almost capitalized on this when Jarrod Bowen was played through on goal, but Diogo Dalot made a remarkable last-ditch block, which was celebrated as if it were a goal for the home side.

Despite Manchester United's defensive frailties this season, they put on a solid performance in the final half-hour, providing a strong foundation to secure the victory. In the 85th minute, Scott McTominay drove forward and found Garnacho in the box, who calmly scored his second goal of the game, sealing the result.

Ultimately, Erik ten Hag's team had a pleasant afternoon, securing only their third clean sheet in 12 home league matches this season. This achievement keeps them in contention for a top-four finish, with a gap of eight points between them and fourth-placed Aston Villa.