Ronaldo ends Barren run as Manchester United climb back into Premier League top four

Cristiano Ronaldo ended his six-game goal drought on Tuesday as Manchester United recuperated from an insipid first-half display to defeat 10-man Brighton 2-0 and climb once again into the Premier League top four. The game dramatically changed complexion early in the second half, with Ronaldo scoring his first goal in 2022 before Lewis Dunk was sent off three minutes later. In any case, the home still managed to make heavy weather of the situation, wasting a number of great opportunities to double their lead until Bruno Fernandes sealed the points deep into extra time. Ralf Rangnick’s team had blown half-time leads to draw 1-1 in their previous three matches in all competitions, dropping crucial points in the league and exiting the FA Cup on penalties.

In his pre-match talks with, interim coach had talked about with regards to how he wanted his team to be more like Dr Jekyll and less like his literary evil alter ego Mr Hyde.

“First half was Mr Hyde, second half Dr Jekyll and for a change it (the result) was different,” he said. “In the end it was important to get the three points against an in-form team.”

Rangnick praised 37-year-old Ronaldo, who got back to the scoresheet for the first time since December 30.

“Very important not only that he scored but it was an outstanding goal,” he said. “It was important for all of us, but his overall performance was one of the best since I arrived here.”