'Real embarrassment' - Paul Scholes says Manchester United avoided humiliation against Omonia Nicosia
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Updated 14/10/2022 at 10:24 GMT
Manchester United had looked like they were going to drop crucial points in their home tie against Omonia Nicosia in the Europa League on Thursday, but a 93rd minute strike from midfielder Scott McTominay proved to be the winner for Erik ten Hag's side. The three points means that United have nine from an available 12 and they are second in their group with two games to play.
'The finishing was not that good' - Ten Hag on Man Utd's late win over Omonia
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes said that the side had avoided "real embarrassment" after beating Omonia Nicosia 1-0 thanks to an injury time winner.
The game looked to be heading to a goalless draw, a result which would have left United’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages of the Europa League in peril.
However three points were secured when, in the 93rd minute, Scott McTominay finished from close range to break the deadlock.
The result means United are in second place in their group, three points behind Real Sociedad, who have 12 points.
United have endured an inconsistent start to life under new manager Erik ten Hag, but have steadily improved, and the goal from McTominay helps United’s momentum after they beat Everton 2-1 at the weekend.
Speaking to BT Sport after the match, Scholes said that their blushes had been spared.
He said: "It's the right result because Manchester United were so dominant in both games.
"That injury time goal has saved themselves real embarrassment though. Francis Uzoho [Omonia goalkeeper] made some good saves but nothing you wouldn't expect in the Champions League.”
While Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford both started with Anthony Martial again out injured, Scholes pointed to a lack of ruthlessness in front of goal.
"United had more than enough chances but their finishing just wasn't there tonight,” he added.
United’s next Europa League game comes against Moldovan team Sheriff on October 27.
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