Was Saints Skipper Jack Stephens’ Red Card the Key Moment in Manchester United’s 3-0 Win?

Southampton faced Manchester United earlier today (September 14) in the Premier League and crumbled to a 3-0 defeat on home soil. However, most of the highlights of the match did not reflect well on the Saints as they missed a penalty and then saw skipper Jack Stephens sent off for a reckless challenge.

When did the incident occur?

United were comfortably cruising to a win in the 79^th minute as Alejandro Garnacho was driving forward with the ball on the left flank. Stephens came crashing into the Argentine with his foot clearly above the legally allowed limit, catching Garnacho high on his legs.

There was no doubt in referee Stuart Atwell’s mind as he showed Saints skipper Jack Stephens a straight red card in the 79th minute, reducing the hosts to 10 men, and making things even worse than they already were.

Several fans took to X to debate whether Atwell’s decision should have been upheld as the red card stood even after a customary VAR check. It was clear to see how high Stephens raised his boots so it was the correct decision.

Garnacho adds the cherry on the cake for United

To add insult to injury for the home fans, the victim of the horror tackle by their captain got on the scoresheet late in the game. Alejandro Garnacho made it 3-0 for Manchester United with a composed finish in the 96^th minute following an assist from Diogo Dalot.

This win sees United record their second victory of this season as they move up to ninth place in the Premier League table with six points from four games so far.

Erik ten Hag’s men will host Barnsley in the EFL Cup on September 17 before they travel to London to face Crystal Palace in the PL on September 21.

ALSO READ: Southampton 0-3 Man United: Player ratings as De Ligt, Rashford and Garnacho sink 10-men Saints