Matheus Cunha admitted Manchester United needed a touch of luck to rescue a 1-1 draw against Fulham, with Bernd Leno's outstanding goalkeeping keeping the visitors frustrated at Craven Cottage. Cunha's late deflected strike cancelled out a bizarre Lisandro Martinez own goal and spared United from another damaging Premier League defeat.
Key Highlights
- Matheus Cunha praised Bernd Leno after the Fulham goalkeeper made five crucial saves.
- Cunha's 89th-minute shot deflected off David Affengruber to rescue a point for Manchester United.
- United remain 12th with five points from five Premier League games, increasing scrutiny around Michael Carrick.
- Cunha insisted the dressing room remains united behind Carrick ahead of the October 10 clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
Late Deflection Rescues Manchester United
Manchester United needed a late slice of fortune to avoid defeat at Craven Cottage after Bernd Leno produced an excellent display for Fulham. The German goalkeeper made five crucial saves throughout the match, repeatedly frustrating United's attack.
However, he was finally beaten in the 89th minute when Cunha's strike took a heavy deflection off David Affengruber, wrongfooting Leno and finding the net. The late equaliser rescued United after Lisandro Martinez's bizarre own goal had given Fulham the lead.
Cunha Praises Leno After United Escape
Cunha was quick to acknowledge Leno's contribution, admitting that United needed some luck to get the ball past the Fulham goalkeeper. The Brazilian forward and Bryan Mbeumo had both seen opportunities denied during a frustrating afternoon, with Leno repeatedly keeping Fulham ahead.
Speaking to BBC Match of the Day after the game, Cunha said United had created enough chances to win but needed to become more clinical. "Bernd Leno is always a good goalkeeper, today he was unbelievable," Cunha said. "We have to congratulate him but also improve."
He added: "To beat Leno today we needed a bit of luck, and I got that luck to score the goal. Maybe if it doesn't touch anyone it doesn't go in."
Craig Mercer
Cunha Backs Carrick Amid Growing Pressure
The draw leaves Manchester United 12th in the Premier League with five points from their opening five matches, adding to the pressure surrounding manager Michael Carrick. However, Cunha insisted the players remain fully behind their head coach and are focused on improving rather than being distracted by the external noise.
"It's only the beginning, to play for this shirt there is a lot of noise around," Cunha said. "We stay very strong, we believe in our group and manager."
The forward also called for United to keep working, saying that the best response to a difficult run is to train harder and improve on the pitch.
Tottenham Clash Awaits After International Break
The three-week international break gives Carrick time to work on United's tactical approach before their next Premier League fixture. United return on October 10, when Tottenham Hotspur visit Old Trafford for another important test.
With United currently sitting 12th, the meeting with Spurs provides Carrick's side with an opportunity to turn their slow start around and climb the table. For Cunha and his teammates, the focus will be on building on the point earned at Fulham and improving their finishing in front of goal.
