Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund extended his hot scoring streak to six consecutive Premier League games, helping Manchester United secure a 1-2 victory against a rejuvenated Luton Town at Kenilworth Road.
Despite early challenges in front of goal, the £72m summer signing scored twice within the first seven minutes, contributing to Erik ten Hag’s side’s fourth consecutive league win.
The 21-year-old seized on Amari’i Bell’s mistake just 37 seconds into the game, skillfully moving past goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski to score. He added a second goal in the seventh minute by redirecting Alejandro Garnacho’s shot into the net.
Despite the early setback, Luton Town had their answers, and Carlton Morris quickly gave them hope with a header as United struggled to handle the home side’s intensity, particularly in the first half.
United faced problems with defender Luke Shaw suffering an injury, and both Harry Maguire and Casemiro going off.
Despite Luton’s efforts in the second half, it was the visitors who created more promising opportunities. Kaminski made crucial saves, denying Garnacho, Rashford, and preventing Hojlund from securing a hat-trick.
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However, there was a tense moment for the visitors in stoppage time when Ross Barkley’s header narrowly missed the target, clipping the top of the crossbar.
The victory brings Man United within five points of fourth-placed Aston Villa in the league standings.
Hojlund continues his hot goal-scoring streak for Manchester United in the Premier League
The Red Devils faced a huge task in the first half against Luton. While experienced players like Casemiro, Maguire, and Varane struggled against the home side’s energetic gameplay, match-winner Hojlund and 18-year-old midfielder Kobbie Mainoo stepped up.
Hojlund, who has been in stellar form recently, showcased his goal-scoring prowess, capitalizing on his hard work earlier in the season. His composed first goal and quick thinking for the second displayed early control for United.
Meanwhile, he also broke Joe Willock’s record for being the youngest to score in six consecutive Premier League games.
The Danish forward displayed top-notch hold-up play against Luton’s defense, narrowly missing a hat-trick before receiving a standing ovation from United’s away supporters.
Mainoo, despite his young age, displayed great composure in this intense match. As things stand, Ten Hag’s side continue their mission to move up the league table.
Despite the team’s occasional lack of precision in finishing, their dedication towards the three points can be clearly seen. It is a factor that was missing from their game in the earlier matches.
What’s next for the Red Devils?
The Reds are poised to extend their current winning streak with Fulham as the next league opponent, followed by Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup. Plenty of action yet to come.
