FA Cup and Premier League hits and misses
Erik ten Hag suggested that the first 35 minutes of this match were the best his team has played this season. There’s an argument that it was the finest display United have showcased during Ten Hag’s tenure. The double blow of Liverpool’s goals just before half-time undermined it. However, when you factor in the late comebacks – including the equalizer from Ten Hag’s transfer pick Antony and the incredible payoff from his all-or-nothing tactics in extra time – it all adds up to a memorable day for the United boss.
Finally, the progress he has long emphasized was evident. “You can see the potential,” he stated afterward. United are a flawed team, and there were numerous instances of their weaknesses against Liverpool. Nevertheless, this was a victory to build upon. It serves as a reference point for what could be accomplished with the Dutchman in charge. A semi-final draw with Coventry can help sustain the momentum. Consecutive FA Cup finals appear within reach.
Of course, United, it seems, are never far from a crisis. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the new investment team observing, it appears that every move from Ten Hag is under scrutiny. Failure at home to Liverpool in this FA Cup quarter-final would have been a potentially damning setback for the beleaguered head coach.
Such a setback could still occur in the final weeks of the season. Champions League qualification, for instance, is imperative, and missing out could cost Ten Hag his job. Nonetheless, this unforgettable FA Cup triumph will bolster Ten Hag’s optimism that he can still be the man to deliver significant success at Old Trafford.
