Fernandes saves ponderous United with extra-time goal

A stray punch got the battle of Britain going, but it took the right boot of Bruno Fernandes to decide it.

- RICHARD JOLLY

AT OLD TRAFFORD

The Manchester United captain may be a newcomer to the Anglo-Scottish rivalry – in contrast to a predecessor, Denis Law, whose life was celebrated by both clubs – but he decided it. A goal in Fergie Time left Sir Alex Ferguson, the Rangers fan and former forward, smiling. Probably Ruben Amorim, too: the Old Trafford televisions should be safer from his wrath.

Fernandes’s sweet half-volley, courtesy of Lisandro Martinez’s curling cross, came after twin errors from England internationals, one benefiting the Premier League club, the other the Scottish side. In a tale of United skippers past and present, Harry Maguire had a particular reason to celebrate his successor’s rescue job. Somehow Maguire had managed to be completely outmuscled by Cyriel Dessers as James Tavernier’s seemingly harmless long ball sailed forward. A clinical finish from the forward later and the Rangers were level.

Not for long, however. “We didn’t deserve that draw at that moment,” said Amorim. Fernandes ensured they got the victory. His final touch could be enjoyed by almost all the United fans present. Almost because one supporter was in the visiting goal. Butland never got to play for United in his loan spell at Old Trafford two years ago. Lining up against them, he scored for them, contriving to punch Christian Eriksen’s cross into his own net. “Jack saved us a few times also in the second half so that is the life of a goalkeeper,” said his manager, Philippe Clement.