Manchester United avoided another damaging defeat on Sunday as Matheus Cunha’s late equaliser secured a 1-1 draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
United appeared destined for a third consecutive defeat after Lisandro Martinez inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 63rd minute. Cunha, however, struck in the 89th minute, with his effort taking a deflection off David Affengruber before beating Bernd Leno.
The result offered some relief to Michael Carrick, but did little to ease the scrutiny surrounding his position following a difficult start to the campaign.
United went into the game needing a victory after losing to Manchester City in the Premier League and surrendering a two-goal lead in their midweek League Cup defeat to Brighton. Instead, they were forced to settle for a point against a Fulham side that began the match near the bottom of the table.
Fulham created several opportunities during a lively first half, with Josh King, Sander Berge and Oscar Bobb all threatening the visitors. United also had chances, including an effort from Bruno Fernandes that struck the post.
The home side eventually took the lead when Calvin Bassey’s shot was parried by United goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Martinez attempted to clear the loose ball but could only divert it into his own goal.
United increased the pressure late in the match and eventually found their breakthrough when Cunha’s long-range effort took a significant deflection before nestling in the net.
The Brazilian’s goal prevented United from suffering a third straight defeat and gave Carrick’s side a fifth point from their opening five Premier League matches. They have recorded just one league victory during that period.
Despite the disappointing performance, Carrick maintained that there were positive aspects to his team’s display. He argued that United had controlled significant portions of the first half and rejected suggestions that his players lacked hunger.
The draw leaves United with plenty to address during the international break, particularly after a sequence of results that has increased scrutiny on Carrick.
United will return to Premier League action on October 10 when they host Tottenham, giving Carrick another opportunity to halt the team’s difficult start.
