United snatch victory from Brentford with two late goals from McTominay

Manchester United staged a stunning comeback to beat Brentford 2-1 at Old Trafford on Saturday, thanks to two injury-time goals from substitute Scott McTominay.

The hosts were heading for their third consecutive home defeat in the Premier League, a feat they had not suffered since 1977, after Mathias Jensen gave Brentford the lead in the 26th minute. The Danish midfielder capitalised on a sloppy pass from Casemiro and a weak save from André Onana to slot home from close range.

United struggled to create clear chances for most of the game, despite having the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Anthony Martial on the pitch. Rashford, in particular, looked out of form and frustrated, as he failed to add to his solitary goal this season.

Brentford, meanwhile, defended resolutely and threatened to extend their lead on the counter-attack, with Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbuemo causing problems for United’s backline.

It seemed like another disappointing day for United manager Erik ten Hag, who had been under pressure after a poor start to the season. But he made a decisive change in the 87th minute, bringing on McTominay for Casemiro.

The Scotland international made an immediate impact, scoring with his first touch after a scramble in the box following a cross from Alejandro Garnacho. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but a VAR check confirmed that McTominay was onside.

The equaliser sparked a frantic finish as United poured forward in search of a winner. Martial forced a save from Thomas Strakosha with a low shot before Fernandes delivered a diagonal free-kick into the area. Harry Maguire, who had also been criticised for his recent performances, rose highest to flick the ball on for McTominay, who nodded in his second goal in the seventh minute of added time.

The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the United players and fans, who had witnessed an incredible turnaround. McTominay and Maguire, who had both been linked with moves away from Old Trafford in the summer, were hailed as heroes for saving their team from embarrassment.