Darren Fletcher's tenure as Manchester United's interim manager began with frustration as a stunning late equaliser from Burnley's Jaidon Anthony forced a 2-2 draw at Turf Moor. The result leaves United in sixth place, unable to secure the cathartic victory the club desperately sought after a turbulent period.
Fletcher's Frustrating Start in the Dugout
The Scot, assisted by former teammate Jonny Evans, took charge following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim on Monday. He opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with the returning Bruno Fernandes as the sole number ten behind striker Benjamin Sesko. Despite this positive intent, United's start was disastrous.
Thirteen minutes in, Burnley took the lead through a cruel Ayden Heaven own goal. Bashir Humphreys' driven cross from the left deflected off the centre-back and looped over goalkeeper Senne Lammens. The cameras immediately cut to a stony-faced Fletcher in the technical area, and then to executive figures Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox, who had wielded the axe earlier in the week.
Sesko Ignites United's Fightback
United, lacking imagination for much of the first half, finally sparked into life after the interval. The catalyst was Benjamin Sesko, who doubled his season's tally with two emphatic finishes. The Slovenian first levelled the scores, latching onto a Fernandes through-ball and blasting past Martin Dubravka.
Fletcher's side then found rhythm and a surfeit of chances. Fernandes hit the post before Sesko struck again, meeting Patrick Dorgu's cross from the left with a sweetly-timed low volley. The 22-year-old's grin mirrored the joy of the travelling supporters, who believed three points were secure.
Anthony's Moment of Magic Seals Clarets' Point
Burnley, fighting for survival, refused to surrender. Substitute Jaidon Anthony produced a moment of pure quality to level the scores, turning away from Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martínez before unleashing an 18-yard peach that flew high past Lammens.
United had a golden chance to snatch victory at the death, but Sesko fluffed a point-blank opportunity for his hat-trick. Shea Lacey also hit the crossbar in a frantic finale, but a draw was ultimately a fair reflection of an entertaining contest.
The result means Burnley, under Scott Parker, have still not won since 26 October, but the spirit shown in coming from behind will offer hope. For Fletcher, the search for a win that can steady the ship continues, with Ole Gunnar Solskjær reportedly the favourite to take the caretaker role until the season's end.
