Bruno Fernandes’ 100th career league goal bolstered Manchester United’s top-four chances with a 1-0 triumph over Aston Villa.
The Portuguese midfielder found the back of the net in the 39th minute off a rebound after Emiliano Martinez had parried Rashford’s shot his way.
The Red Devils had missed chances to go ahead before Fernandes’ 42nd league goal for the club and would be relieved at holding on strongly for a deserved victory.
Asides ending Aston Villa’s 10-match unbeaten run with the win, David de Gea kept his 15th league cleansheet – the highest so far) as Erik ten Hag’s side became the first league side to shut the gates against the Villans since Unai Emery took charge.
Ezri Konsa nearly scrambled in a close-range equaliser from a late corner and Lindelof cleared off the line as United secured a healthy advantage on the clubs chasing a top-four spot, with Villa now nine points adrift.
Manchester United fans opposed to the continued Glazer ownership of the club held a protest before the game with a thousand of them gathered at the city centre before marching to Old Trafford.
At the St. James’ Park, Callum Wilson took his Premier League tally to 15 goals for the season as Newcastle fought back to beat bottom club Southampton and strengthen their place in the top four.
Newcastle United went behind when Stuart Armstrong converted a fine pass frpm Suleymana in the 41st minute but Callum Wilson’s brace either side of a Theo Walcott own goal gave the Magpies a 3-1 win on a hot Sunday afternoon.