This archive report was first published on 17 July 2020.
Manchester United's 2-0 win over Crystal Palace on Thursday night marked a significant milestone in the team's bid to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League. The victory, which was Rashford's 17th Premier League goal of the season, has put United in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League.
With Leicester's win over Sheffield United earlier in the day, United knew they needed a win to keep up the pressure in the race for the Champions League spot. Rashford's 46th-minute finish, which put United ahead just before the break, was a crucial moment in the match.
The 22-year-old forward has been in impressive form this season, and his goal against Palace was a testament to his growth as a player. When asked to compare Rashford with Cristiano Ronaldo, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer pointed to a developed maturity in the multiple Ballon d'Or winner's game that was perhaps lacking in Rashford. However, the Man Utd boss can have no complaints with the composure, ability, and skill displayed by the young forward.
Rashford's footwork and trickery took out Joel Ward and Patrick van Aanholt, and he showed his calm as he side-footed past Vicente Guaita. His performances at the beginning of the restart weren't as effective as Mason Greenwood's, but he showed his apprentice exactly how it is done with a fine all-round display.
His output has improved vastly under Solskjaer's tutelage, and he has the confidence to try new things. His development is clear - not just his finishing - but his overall contributions. He was instrumental too in United's second goal on the night, which sealed a big victory on a difficult night in their push for a top-four finish.
With Rashford and Anthony Martial both on 21 goals for the season, the strike force is blossoming like never before. The equation is simple; win both remaining matches and they are back at the top table.
