Manchester United named a rather weak side for the league game. Striker Zlatan Ibrahomivic and midfielder/winger Henrikh Mkhytarian were left on the bench while Jesse Lingard, Ashley Young, and Marcus Rashford formed the attacking trio up top. Chelsea were without Thibaut Courtois and Marcos Alonso.
United scored early on with a goal by Marcus Rashford. The pace of the young forward managed to get in behind David Luiz before slotting pass Asmir Begovic. Chelsea remained timid for the rest of the match, failing to attack United’s goal for large stretches. Mourinho’s men doubled their lead when Ander Herrera converted from 18 yards out to secure the win.
The result has several implications. The aforementioned title race is more open now. Meanwhile, Manchester United have a chance to surpass City and/or Liverpool for the top four race; playing a game against their cross-town rivals while having a game in hand. Meanwhile, the FA cup semifinal matchup between Tottenham and Chelsea will have much more riding on it; with the result possibly providing moral for the victors for the end of the Premier League season.
