Erik Ten Hag Pleads With Manchester United To Be More Clinical

On September 22, 2024, Manchester United faced Crystal Palace in a goalless draw that left manager Erik ten Hag frustrated. Despite dominating possession and controlling the game, United failed to convert their chances, particularly in the first half where Ten Hag believed they should have scored at least two goals. The manager highlighted a missed opportunity for the opposition, which could have changed the game's outcome. He expressed disappointment over the team's inability to capitalize on their dominance, noting that they lost crucial points in previous matches as well. In the second half, Crystal Palace improved their performance, effectively closing down United's midfield and limiting their attacking opportunities. This shift in dynamics allowed Palace to create counter-attacking chances, putting pressure on United's defense. Ten Hag acknowledged the challenges posed by Palace's adjustments and the need for his team to adapt accordingly. Despite the draw, Ten Hag praised goalkeeper Andre Onana for his quick reflexes and crucial saves, which helped maintain the scoreline. He emphasized the importance of pressing and maintaining control of the game, which had been a focus in their training sessions. The manager's comments reflect a broader concern about the team's finishing ability and the need for improvement in future matches. Overall, the match served as a reminder of the importance of clinical finishing in football, as United's inability to convert chances ultimately cost them valuable points in the league standings.