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Patrick Dorgu announced himself in spectacular fashion at Old Trafford, scoring a superb volley to hand Manchester United a vital 1–0 Premier League victory over Newcastle United on Boxing Day.
Deployed as a makeshift right winger, the versatile Dane produced the decisive moment of quality as United ended a two-month wait for a home league win. Ruben Amorim’s side entered the contest stretched thin, missing seven first-team players — including captain Bruno Fernandes — and under pressure to respond.
United Rise Despite Setbacks
Amorim reshuffled his side, starting with a back four before later reverting to a back five, and his players responded with resilience and discipline. Lisandro Martínez captained the side on his first start in 327 days, while Casemiro came close early on with a header as United began brightly.
Newcastle, however, gradually grew into the game. Bruno Guimarães forced Senne Lammens into a sharp near-post save from a corner, while Benjamin Šeško squandered a good chance after excellent work by Dorgu.
Despite Newcastle’s pressure, United struck first. A long throw from Diogo Dalot led to a headed clearance looping into the air, and Dorgu reacted quickest, racing onto the dropping ball and smashing a crisp volley beyond Aaron Ramsdale. The goalkeeper got a hand to the effort but could not keep it out.
Defensive Grit Seals the Win
Dorgu’s contribution went beyond the goal. The 19-year-old followed up his strike with an energetic defensive display, helping United secure only their second clean sheet of the season — a significant achievement given Newcastle’s second-half push.
Lewis Hall rattled the crossbar with a dipping long-range effort, while Anthony Gordon flashed a low shot across the face of goal. Newcastle also appealed for a penalty after a Fabian Schär effort struck Martínez, but VAR ruled against it following a lengthy review.
United had chances to extend their lead through Matheus Cunha, but Ramsdale made key saves to keep the visitors in contention. Mason Mount was forced off at half-time, with Jack Fletcher — son of former United midfielder Darren Fletcher — making his home debut.
Holding Firm Until the End
As the match wore on, Amorim’s men were pushed deeper. Newcastle dominated possession late on, but United defended resolutely, blocking crosses and shots as Lewis Miley fired wide in stoppage time.
When the final whistle blew, it confirmed a hard-fought and morale-boosting victory for United — one defined by tactical flexibility, defensive commitment, and a moment of brilliance from Patrick Dorgu.
