Manchester United were left waiting for their first Premier League win of the season after Emile Smith Rowe came off the bench to level for Fulham in an enthralling 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage on Sunday. Red Devils captain Bruno Fernandes squandered a vital penalty, with United left to regret spurned chances in a game marred by attacking intent from both teams.
The game started off at a frantic pace, with both sides threatening early on. Manchester United summer arrival Matheus Cunha was bright, making an early save from Fulham ‘keeper Bernd Leno before hitting the post with another effort. Bruno Fernandes also tried his luck from distance, with Fulham’s Josh King having the best chance to open the scoring, only to be thwarted by quick reflexes from United ‘keeper Altay Bayındır.
The defining moment of the first half came in the 35th minute when Fulham defender Calvin Bassey fouled Mason Mount inside the box following a protracted VAR review. United were given a penalty, but Fernandes saw his spot-kick soar over the bar much to the glee of the home fans and anger of the visitors. Even though they missed, Fulham slowly built into the half, with Rodrigo Muniz and Timothy Castagne looking to threaten from Saša Lukić passes, but the sides entered the break tied at 0-0.
United Break the Deadlock
Manchester United eventually broke the deadlock a minute before the hour mark in scrappy style. Young defender Leny Yoro rose to a cross, and his header struck off Muniz’s back, catching Leno off balance and handing the Red Devils a 1-0 advantage. The goal was United’s just reward for prolonged pressure but served to underline the defensive frailties of Fulham too.
Fulham manager Marco Silva responded by introducing Emile Smith Rowe, a decision that paid immediate dividends. The substitute made an incisive run into the penalty area and connected neatly with Alex Iwobi’s cross, slotting the ball past Bayındır to restore parity. Smith Rowe’s strike injected fresh energy into the home side and set up a thrilling finish.
Late Drama but No Winner
The game was left open during the final stages as both teams tried to find a winner. United was close via Harry Maguire, who headed inches wide from a towering header in stoppage time. Despite the pressure at the end, neither team was able to score a winning goal, and the points were split.
The draw leaves Manchester United still searching for their first win of the season, with Bruno Fernandes’ penalty miss proving costly. For Fulham, Smith Rowe’s sharp finish rewarded their persistence and tactical adjustment, highlighting the impact of substitutes in modern football. The game also showcased the resilience of both goalkeepers and the attacking intent on display from both sides.
The 1-1 draw highlights the unpredictability of the Premier League, with United required to turn chances into goals if they are to move up the table. Meanwhile, Fulham can draw encouragement from their battling qualities and capacity to react under pressure, laying the groundwork for an interesting campaign for both sides.
