Manchester United’s troubles deepened at Old Trafford as Brighton overturned an early two-goal deficit to claim a remarkable 3-2 victory and book their place in the last 16 of the Carabao Cup.
Michael Carrick’s side appeared to be heading towards a much-needed win after goals from teenage prospect Shea Lacey and Mason Mount put the hosts firmly in control inside the opening ten minutes.
Lacey, making his first senior start for United, produced a composed finish after only eight minutes. The celebrations had barely ended when Mount reacted quickest to a blocked Marcus Rashford effort and drove home the rebound to double the advantage.
After the disappointment of the Manchester derby defeat to a ten-man City side, United could hardly have asked for a better opening. However, the confidence surrounding Old Trafford quickly disappeared as Brighton began to take control.
Brighton launch an impressive comeback
Charalampos Kostoulas gave the visitors hope shortly before the interval, reducing the deficit and changing the mood inside the stadium.
Brighton continued to apply pressure after the break and eventually found their equaliser through captain Pascal Gross. The midfielder was afforded far too much space on the edge of the penalty area, allowing him to control a clearance, turn and fire beyond Karl Darlow.
Darlow was making his Manchester United debut, but he was left exposed again just four minutes later.
Kostoulas, having scored Brighton’s opening goal, turned provider by cutting the ball back for substitute Maxim de Cuyper, who completed the turnaround with a confident finish.
Carrick responded by introducing captain Bruno Fernandes with 18 minutes remaining as United desperately searched for a way back into the contest.
Marcus Rashford came close to levelling the score, only to be denied by Brighton goalkeeper Jason Steele. At the opposite end, Darlow prevented Diego Gomez from adding a fourth and putting the result beyond doubt.
Another painful cup defeat for United
The final whistle brought contrasting scenes around Old Trafford. Brighton’s travelling support celebrated an unforgettable comeback, while sections of the home crowd made their frustration clear as the United players left the pitch.
It was the first time in 50 years that Manchester United had lost a home match after holding a two-goal lead. The previous occasion came against Tottenham Hotspur in 1976.
The result also extended United’s worrying run in domestic cup competitions. Following last season’s shock EFL Cup defeat at League Two side Grimsby Town and January’s FA Cup loss to Brighton at Old Trafford, United have now suffered three consecutive domestic cup eliminations.
For Carrick, the defeat adds further pressure during an already difficult period. United entered the match still dealing with the fallout from their derby loss, while highly regarded 15-year-old academy player JJ Gabriel has reportedly informed the club that he intends to leave.
Lacey’s first senior goal provided one significant positive, but it was ultimately overshadowed by another damaging collapse. Brighton showed composure and belief to recover from a disastrous beginning, while United were once again left searching for answers after allowing a promising position to unravel.
Brighton now advance to the last 16, while Manchester United must turn their attention back to the league as the scrutiny surrounding Carrick and his squad continues.
Discover more from LoveBelfast
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
