MANCHESTER – In a thrilling Premier League showdown on Friday, Patrick Dorgu netted his debut goal for Manchester United, securing a 1-0 victory over Newcastle.

The 21-year-old talent made a significant impact with a stunning left-footed volley from 15 meters out, breaking the deadlock midway through the first half. This crucial goal not only marked United’s first home victory in four league matches but also propelled them above Liverpool into fifth place in the standings.

However, Liverpool, the reigning champions, will have the chance to respond as they host the bottom-placed Wolves on Saturday.

Reflecting on his impressive strike, a jubilant Dorgu admitted, “It was a good hit. I didn’t know I could do that.”

Manchester United faced the challenge without their influential captain Bruno Fernandes, along with several other key players sidelined either due to injuries or commitments at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Despite fielding a reconfigured team and adopting an unusual back-four formation, the squad held its ground against Newcastle in a closely contested first half, distinguished by Dorgu’s remarkable goal — his first in 38 appearances wearing the iconic red shirt.

United was hampered by the half-time withdrawal of Mason Mount due to injury and Newcastle dominated the early moments of the second period.

The bulk of the chances fell to Newcastle. Lewis Hall was unfortunate to see a long-range effort hit the bar after 62 minutes and Anthony Gordon missed the target with a good chance a few moments later.

A late piledriver from Joelinton was also well saved by United goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

At the other end, Diogo Dalot fired over from close in when he should have done better, but neither side could add to Dorgu’s effort and United fans went home happy.

Manager Ruben Amorim will be particularly pleased with the way his young charges saw out their slender lead.

United had five academy players in the Old Trafford dugout and England under-19 midfielder Jack Fletcher – son of former player Darren – was one of the youngsters introduced during the second 45 minutes.

Twenty-year-old Ayden Heaven started in central defense for United, while Leny Yoro and Tyler Fredricson, who are also 20, came on during the second half.

Newcastle now trails United by six points in 11th spot after a poor December when it has won only one of its five league games.

“Second half was a lot better than the first from our perspective, but we didn’t do enough,” said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe. “I felt if we scored we could go on and win the game but it didn’t happen. We’re hugely disappointed.

“We got better in the second half and played with good rhythm, dominated the ball and it was just the goal that was missing.”

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer