Talking points from Old Trafford

It was new signing Antony who handed United a first-half lead, superbly finishing on his first outing at Old Trafford, before a Marcus Rashford double put the game beyond reach after Bukayo Saka had levelled the scoring.

Recording our fourth Premier League victory along the way, the Theatre of Dreams was in fine voice throughout the contest. Here are the main talking points from a superb afternoon for United...

ANTONY'S MAIDEN BOW

Set for a tough clash against non-other than a four-time Premier League winner in Oleksandr Zinchenko on his debut, our new.21 performed valiantly on his first outing in United colours, showcasing his plethora of flair and trickery. With clear instruction to hug the touchline and really get at the Gunners backline, Antony's electric pace was also an added extra when doubling up to aid Diogo Dalot with his defensive duties too. A strong showing, capped off by superbly opening his tally to give the Reds the lead after Marcus Rashford had laid the opportunity on a plate.

MARCUS IN FINE FORM

Finding the net twice and laying on a assist too in the 90 minutes, Rashford put on a complete performance, further proving his effectiveness in Erik ten Hag's current system. Operating as a sole striker in front of our attacking midfield trio of Antony, Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho from the start, the England international worked tirelessly for his openings and soon reaped the rewards for his diligent work. Gesticulating towards the Stretford End following his winner, our no.10 put on a fine showing and was relentless in front of goal when required.

DEFENSIVE STABILITY

Keeping Gabriel Jesus, Saka and Gabriel Martinelli is no easy feat given the Gunners previous five consecutive victories heading into this afternoon's clash. But with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane performing superbly throughout, Mikel Arteta's side were limited to very little, as time and time again United put their bodies on the line to ensure a resolute stalwart-like display at the back. Despite Saka's second half strike, the United backline worked in unison once again to record a hard-fought victory.

DAVID'S SAFE HANDS

Preventing Martinelli in the first half with a fine save, our Spanish shot-stopper was on fine form once more to cap off a strong team display. Organising and instructing the Reds all the way, David's knowhow shone through more than any other, shouting and drawing on his vast experience to command another fine performance for Ten Hag's side from the back.

OLD TRAFFORD ROAR

In front of a packed out Theatre of Dreams, our 12th man sure delivered when it mattered most to carry Ten Hag's side over the line, none more so than when Antony's first-half strike tore the proverbial roof off the place. Sections of the ground could also be heard taunting the Gunners' travelling faithful with renditions of 'Oh Robin van Persie' in the closing stages, just add further salt into the wounds.

RED RESILIENCE

Having been pegged back at the start of the second half, Rashford soon responded with a vital goal to restore our lead. Thanks to a superb pass from Fernandes, our no.10 raced through in front of the Stretford End, much like he did against Liverpool, to score our second and show that togetherness and team spirit our Dutch boss has talked up all week. 

GREAT SCOTT

Operating as a holding midfielder once more, Scott McTominay's class shined through during the victory, anchoring his responsibilities between defence and attack. Completing the full 90 minutes against a tireless opposition like Arsenal, our no.39 was tidy and composed when needed, whilst also helping spring attack and give the ball to our forward players in order to help hurt an in-form Arsenal side. With Christian Eriksen alongside him, it seems Scott it enjoys the partnership with his work a key part in our recent victories.

GAME MANAGEMENT

Protecting a two-goal lead is no easy task, especially against a side with Arsenal's no doubt quality. However, with 20 minutes left to 'shut up shop', United were smart and balanced in knowing when to spring forward, but also when to slow the game down to suit the pace they wished to play at. Fred and Casemiro's late introductions helped no end, as the Brazilian pair used their capabilities in the defensive third to stop attacks when it was required most.