Jones volley gives Group winners United much-needed win

It was certainly not a vintage Manchester United performance – but, following back-to-back home defeats, a hard-fought Old Trafford win against Shakhtar Donetsk was pivotal for the Red Devils, who head for the last 16 of the Champions League as Group A winners.

Having already qualified for the knock-out stages, United needed only a point on Tuesday evening to seal the Group and maintain an unbeaten European campaign.

Nevertheless, having suffered disappointing defeats against Everton and Newcastle, United’s supporters were hoping for a big response against Shakhtar, who themselves would have qualified for the Round of 16 with victory.

Whilst the performance still raised plenty of question marks with United struggling to contain their Ukrainian visitors for long periods, the result provides welcome tonic for under-pressure David Moyes as his form in continental competition continues to overshadow a disappointing Premier League campaign.

The only goal of the game came on 67 minutes as Phil Jones, playing in a midfield role, met substitute Robin van Persie’s corner with a volley.

Jones’ strike and the win disguise a largely ropey United display. For much of the game, Shakhtar showed more creativity, spark and pace, but couldn’t find the goal their performance warranted.

Following Jones’ opener, and with Bayer Leverkusen ahead in Sociedad, Shakhtar’s intensity levels dropped as their Champions League campaign juddered to a halt. United ultimately held out comfortably.

After a difficult start to December, an ugly win was probably just what United needed. It ensures Moyes’ men head for the last 16 as Group winners, with an unbeaten continental record to boot; whilst, for Shakhtar, the Europa League now awaits.

Full Time – Manchester United 1-0 Shakhtar Donetsk
Attendance - TBC