Manchester United secured a comfortable victory in the Premier League this afternoon, defeating West Ham on a 3-0 scoreline at Old Trafford.
The away side actually arguably looked like the more dangerous team in the opening exchanges of the afternoon, although they failed to create much in terms of scoring opportunities. However, once Rasmus Hojlund opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, there seemed little doubt about the result.
Rasmus Højlund scores on his birthday! 🔥🎂 pic.twitter.com/AEWXd3OD8l
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 4, 2024
Outside of a couple of opportunities from set-pieces, West Ham never looked likely to get back into the game.
Alejandro Garnacho would add a second for Manchester United just after the interval, with the winger going on to wrap up the three points in the closing stages with this smart finish.
ANOTHER ONE!
Alejandro Garnacho gets a second, Manchester United cruising 🔴✨ pic.twitter.com/MUX6cU4xeA— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 4, 2024
This result moves United up to sixth in the Premier League, overtaking today's opponents in the process.
READ HERE: Roy Keane Amuses Crowd At Charlie O'Leary's 100th Birthday Bash
Roy Keane comments on England man's Manchester United howler
This was certainly an afternoon to forget for West Ham, with quite a few of their players failing to perform.
That includes Kalvin Phillips, who made no impact on the game after coming on during the second half. David Moyes opted against starting the Manchester City loanee, saying he would have to be eased in after joining the club last month.
He certainly would not have been impressed with the player's part in the third goal, needlessly conceding possession and allowing Manchester United to get through on goal.
On Sky Sports after the game, presenter Dave Jones the mistake was 'tough on Phillips' when discussing that final goal. However, Roy Keane was not buying it.
Keane: It was game over after the second goal. Phillips here, I don't know what he's trying. The way I look at it, he's sluggish.
You've got to get punished, I thought McTominay did really well here. It's a nive weight of pass, 3-0 and a nice afternoon for United. The attackers are back on form.
Jones: It is tough on Phillips though, isn't it?
Keane: I just think he comes at it from the wrong angle. You can make excuses for him.
He's come at it from the wrong angle, he is shielding people. Credit to McTominay, it was nice and aggressive. Game over.
Kavlin Phillips would have been hoping that this loan move would rejuvenate his club career, having barely featured since signing for Manchester City in 2022.
He has remained a consistent member of the England squad despite his lack of playing time, something that has grated on quite a few of the country's supporters. Performances such as this one are unlikely to change their minds when it comes to his international credentials.
SEE ALSO: Eamon Dunphy Goes Against The Grain With Interesting Neil Lennon Take
