Manchester United's set-piece weaknesses were on display again when Dean Howesen gave Bournemouth the lead in the 30th minute at Old Trafford in the Premier League.
Ryan Christie's free-kick found defender Huijsen at the back post, who headed over goalkeeper Andre Onana to put the Cherries on course for a fourth win in a five-game unbeaten run.
“What a start for Bournemouth,” former Manchester City midfielder Michael Brown told BBC Radio 5 Live. “They could have just run it, they didn't have to do much. Dean Huyson glances at it and drifts towards the far top corner.
Just a quiet guy scoring at Old Trafford 🍒 pic.twitter.com/UnnyCpseIb
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 22, 2024
Manchester United vs Bournemouth: Huysen goal
Bournemouth made a blistering start before taking the lead, although United went close twice through Bruno Fernandes on the stroke of half-time.
United captain Kepa Arrizabalaga was denied a great shot, while the Portuguese playmaker sent another shot wide of the target.
United have now conceded the first goal in each of their last six matches under new manager Ruben Amorim, who left striker Marcus Rashford out of his squad for the third successive match.
Tottenham, Manchester City, Viktoria Plzeň, Nottingham Forest and Arsenal have all scored the opening goals in Amorim's previous five matches.
Among six changes from the 4-3 Carabao Cup final defeat to Tottenham on Thursday, Joshua Zirkzee replaces Rasmus Hoglund up front, while full-back Terrell Malcia makes his second league appearance of the season.
“It's my decision, I want to see my team's best players.”
Robin Amorim comments on Marcus Rashford's exclusion from the squad 🔴 pic.twitter.com/dLiBMEPBA3
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 22, 2024
Premier League table
The Red Devils started the day in 13th place but knew they could rise above Bournemouth with a second successive league win following their late 2-1 win over Manchester City the previous Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Cherries have risen to fifth place with three points, ahead of Aston Villa and defending champions Manchester City.
Manager Andoni Iraola has opted to give midfielder Tyler Adams his fifth start in 10 league appearances since returning from a back injury in mid-October.
The US international came on for Lewis Cook as his team recorded its third successive win away from home, after defeating Wolverhampton and Ipswich Town.
