Manchester United Blow Away Barnsley in Record Win for Ten Hag
In a display of dominance, Manchester United rolled over League One side Barnsley with an emphatic 7-0 victory in the League Cup on Tuesday night. This marks the first time under Erik ten Hag’s leadership that the team has scored five or more goals in a single match, setting a new record for their biggest-ever League Cup win. It was a very comfortable night for the Red Devils, showcasing a level of ruthlessness and clinical finishing fans have eagerly awaited from Ten Hag’s team. There was a refreshing fluidity to United's play and the players seemed to enjoy the occasion as they utterly outclassed Barnsley.
Manchester United’s Dominant First Half Against Barnsley
In a thrilling first half, Manchester United took a commanding lead through ‘Man of the Match’ Marcus Rashford who was also making his 200th Old Trafford appearance. The forward has once again found his scoring form and was one of many standout performers on the night.
Rashford opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a brilliant solo effort, showcasing his growing confidence and sharpness. His deft first touch and powerful finish into the top left corner set the tone for United’s attacking intent. Garnacho even took the time to remind Rashford of his trademark “point to the head” celebration of which he happily obliged. Rashford’s influence didn’t stop there; he played a crucial role in the build up to the penalty, which Brazilian Antony won and converted with ease, further boosting both his and the team’s morale.
Alejandro Garnacho also made his mark, both assisting Rashford’s opener and scoring the third goal himself. The forward already has four goals and three assists this season since the Community Shield. His relentless energy, pace and quick reactions were key in United’s high-press, allowing them to force turnovers and create numerous scoring opportunities.Marcus Rashford is BACK for Manchester United 🔥 pic.twitter.com/glD8WF9gnZ
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) September 17, 2024
United were relaxed in possession. There was urgency in their play but at the right times. Their expansive and direct approach was dictated by players like Casemiro and Christian Eriksen orchestrating moves from midfield. The team seemed to be playing with a swagger not seen from this United team in a long time, leaving Barnsley struggling to keep up.
The second half saw Alejandro Garnacho netting his second goal of the game, thanks to debutant Manuel Ugarte’s aggressive ball winning qualities to start the move. Christian Eriksen’s sublime pass put Garnacho through on goal and was expertly finished before the goalkeeper could move. Garnacho continued to shine, setting up Marcus Rashford for his second after capitalising on a loose pass from Barnsley. Rashford’s cool low left-footed finish was a testament to the team’s excellent rhythm and confidence.
"Rashford and Manchester United, RUNNING riot." 😨
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) September 17, 2024
Marcus Rashford makes it 5-0 against Barnsley in the Carabao Cup 🔴 pic.twitter.com/HgKWFSGMdv
Eriksen emerged as the star of the second half, scoring twice with assists from substitute Bruno Fernandes, who created a game-high six chances in just 29 minutes of football. Eriksen’s first goal came from a well-timed run into the box, while his second was a beautifully curled shot from the edge of the penalty area, following a fluid passing move. Despite not featuring as much as he would like of late, Eriksen’s quality in the last two games has been undeniable. His teammates even took to social media to heap praise on the Danish midfielder and his influence on the game.
Erik Ten Hag made eight changes to the starting lineup from the win at Southampton on Saturday but the performance highlighted the benefits of squad rotation. The team seized the opportunity to build belief and confidence, playing a free-flowing and dominant brand of football. On a night where Champions League football was on another channel, cynical fans and pundits might scream “It’s only Barnsley” but the reality is, this team struggled against Coventry and Newport County last season.
It’s been a far from perfect start to the season for Erik Ten Hag but ten goals and two clean sheets in the last few games is huge for confidence. This upturn in form can’t be understated and will help build positive momentum to take into the next game. United will face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the Premier League on Saturday at 5:30pm.
