Dorgu’s strike earns Man United win over Newcastle

A depleted Manchester United team clung on to climb back into the Premier League’s top five as Patrick Dorgu’s stunning volley proved enough to beat Newcastle at Old Trafford.

Missing seven senior players through injury and international duty, including skipper Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Amorim’s side also lost Mason Mount at half-time.

But despite Newcastle having 66 per cent possession and Lewis Hall’s thunderous strike bouncing down off the underside of the bar, Eddie Howe’s side could not find a leveller as their dismal recent form continued.

In fairness, Dorgu’s first Manchester United goal was worthy of winning any game.

As Diogo Dalot’s long throw was cleared to the edge of the Newcastle area, Dorgu strode confidently forward and struck the loose ball on the drop, giving goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale no chance as it flew into the corner.

Benjamin Sesko struck the crossbar before Dalot had a chance to double the home side’s lead in the second period, but arriving at speed behind the visitors’ defence, he could not keep his shot down with only Ramsdale to beat.

Newcastle ended the game camped around their opponents’ box.

But the home side stood firm to claim only their second clean sheet of the season and secure a win without Fernandes for the first time since March 2022, while Newcastle, in contrast, have now lost six of their past nine away games.