- Manchester United beat Newcastle 1-0 on Boxing Day at Old Trafford.
- Patrick Dorgu scored a stunning long-range winner.
- Ayden Heaven was named Man of the Match after a solid defensive display.
- Amorim switched to a back four due to injuries.
Manchester United marked their Boxing Day fixture with a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over Newcastle, thanks to a stunning long-range strike from Patrick Dorgu at Old Trafford.
The goal, hit from the edge of the box, proved enough to separate the two sides and keep United’s momentum alive as the season gathers pace.
While Dorgu grabbed the headlines, it was Ayden Heaven who quietly delivered a commanding performance at the back.
The former Arsenal defender was named Man of the Match after winning every duel he contested, making eight clearances, and helping United keep a clean sheet.
Heaven partnered club captain Lisandro Martínez in defence, showing composure beyond his years in a game that demanded discipline and focus.
United boss Rúben Amorim was forced to adjust his tactics due to injuries. He opted for a back four, with key midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes still unavailable.
Alongside Heaven and Martínez, academy debutant Jack Fletcher was handed a chance and impressed, particularly before halftime, as United held firm against Newcastle’s pressure.
The win pushed Manchester United up to fifth place on the table with 29 points, leaving them ten points behind leaders Arsenal.
Speaking after the match, Heaven expressed confidence in the squad’s potential, insisting United can challenge for the title if they maintain their current form.
Amorim was full of praise for Heaven and Fletcher, pointing to their commitment to training as the reason they were ready when called upon.
“I’m really pleased with Ayden Heaven. You can feel he is improving every game,” Amorim said.
“He wasn’t playing, but he trained really well. You need to be ready when the opportunity comes.”
“He’s humble, works really hard, and deserves his Old Trafford debut.”
