(Reuters) – Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Granada in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final round to put their side in the driving seat.
In a game where there were few clear opportunities, the highlight of a miserable opening quarter came when a streaker somehow managed to find his way on the pitch, despite crowds not being able to attend the contest due to COVID-19 protocols.
Rashford’s goal just after the half hour was a piece of the standout standard of the game.
Victor Lindelof walked out of defense and his long ball was perfectly weighted to the path of the England striker, who managed well before finishing coolly to give United the lead and reach his 20th goal of the season in all competitions.
Granada fought bravely for a way back into the game, with Chelsea loanee Kenedy testing David de Gea from long distance before Yangel Herrera – on loan from Manchester City – hit the post with a volley.
In a Fernandes second half cage, he denied a second goal by a save from Portuguese compatriot Rui Silva from close range late, then netted a stoppage time penalty after being knocked down by substitute Yan Brice Eteki.
The return leg is next Thursday at Old Trafford and the winners of the draw will face the winners in the Ajax Amsterdam and AS Roma competition where the Italians hold 2-1 ahead of their first leg away and also played yesterday.