Anthony Martial has just slotted a nice back post volley to equalize for Manchester United against West Ham United in the FA Cup.
The first half was a dire affair. Manchester United, as they have often been under Louis Van Gaal, were utterly uninspiring, again not recording a shot on target in the first half, and West Ham, while having the better of the game, did not create too many glaring opportunities. However, the second half is a different story, and Anthony Martial has finally converted Manchester United’s long lasting pressure.
Only 20 minutes earlier had Dimitri Payet scored a truly beautiful free kick to put the Hammers 1-0 up. Nonetheless, Van Gaal’s side continued to pressure their opponents, and as they so often have under the reign of Sir Alex Ferguson, shown their fighting spirit and secure the equalizer.
Game on! Anthony Martial turns home Ander Herrera's cross at the far post, and just like that, it's 1-1! #FACUPonFOX https://t.co/ZRLbLKDpxY
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 13, 2016
It is good play initially from Ander Herrera down the right hand side. The Spanish midfielder picks up the ball just inside the penalty area, works his way to the by line and simply chips the ball across the six yard box. Ogbonna is unable to clear, and Man. Utd’s new superstar striker volleys home at the far post.
There is a hint of a foul on goal keeper Adrian from Bastian Schweinsteiger who steps into his path, restricting the keeper’s movement, who is then unable to haul himself across goal and claw the ball away.
United continued to press for the winner in the closing stages, but were unable to score the second goal, and the two teams will go at it again in the replay.