Schmeichel criticises Dorgu and Heaven after Manchester United’s defeat by Hull City

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has criticised Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven for their defending during Semi Ajayi’s opening goal in Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat by Hull City.

The Nigeria international gave Hull City the lead at the MKM Stadium on Saturday after Manchester United failed to clear a corner properly. Ajayi reacted quickest in the penalty area and finished from close range as the newly-promoted side took control of the match.

Hull City doubled their advantage before half-time, with debutant Nobel Mendy heading in their second goal just a few minutes before the interval. The result left Manchester United facing a disappointing opening-day defeat and gave the hosts a commanding position at the break.

Analysing Ajayi’s goal during half-time coverage, Schmeichel questioned the concentration and physicality of Manchester United’s defenders. He focused particularly on Dorgu, who was positioned at the front post, and Heaven, who was stationed at the back post.

“This is sloppy defending, this is all about concentrating,” Schmeichel said on Premier League Productions, as monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com

“Look at Dorgu, Dorgu on the front post, he is not even looking at the guy taking the corner kick. At that exact moment, he loses his concentration, he does not have the ability to block the first ball.

“And of course, Ayden Heaven on the back post. That’s not how you defend, you have to be stronger.”

Schmeichel also criticised Manchester United’s overall performance during a poor first half, saying the players lacked the required work rate and intensity.

“You have to say that for most Manchester United players, it feels like they are not working out well,” he concluded

The defeat was particularly notable because Hull City became the first newly-promoted club to beat Manchester United in the opening game of a Premier League campaign.

Before Saturday’s match, Manchester United had never lost their first league fixture of a season against a newly-promoted opponent. Their previous record in those 12 meetings was nine wins and three draws.

Ajayi’s goal was therefore significant both in the context of Hull City’s return to the Premier League and Manchester United’s early setback. The Tigers capitalised on a set-piece lapse before adding a second goal shortly afterwards, leaving Ruben Amorim’s side with a substantial deficit before the interval.

Schmeichel’s comments centred on the defensive positioning at the first goal, with Dorgu’s failure to track the corner and Heaven’s involvement at the back post coming under particular scrutiny. He argued that Manchester United needed greater concentration and strength when defending the set-piece.

The result gave Hull City an historic victory in their first Premier League match of the campaign, while Manchester United’s unbeaten record against newly-promoted teams in season openers came to an end.

By Adeyemi Adewale
Photo credit: wearehullcity.co.uk