Manchester United battled through a tense second half to secure a 1-0 Boxing Day victory over Newcastle, with manager Ruben Amorim hailing the performance as a sign of progress.
A stunning 24th‑minute volley from Patrick Dorgu proved decisive, but United spent much of the second half under pressure. Newcastle registered 16 attempts at goal, though only three were on target, while United managed just 33.4% possession — their lowest in the league this season.
The win marked United’s first clean sheet in 10 games, with Amorim praising his side’s spirit and defensive unity. “We managed to defend sometimes with a back six but we suffer together and that is a good feeling,” he said. “If we always have this spirit, we are going to win so many games.”
With captain Bruno Fernandes sidelined, Dorgu stepped up with arguably his best performance in a United shirt. Amorim noted the 21‑year‑old’s turnaround: “Sometimes you struggle, sometimes it depends on the team or the game. Today was good for his pace and ability to drive with the ball.”
United’s defense looked stronger with Lisandro Martinez making his first start since February, while Newcastle’s frustrations continued — Eddie Howe’s side have just one win and six points from nine away games this season.
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