Anthony Martial

By Chris
May 16 2016

Manchester United’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League took a severe blow on Tuesday evening, at a highly-charged final contest at Upton Park, marred by an attack on the Red Devils’ team bus prior to kick-off.

Kick-off was delayed by 45 minutes as the United team bus was attacked by objects, as it got stuck in traffic en route to the stadium.

United, of old, may have responded to the ugly pre-match scenes with a famous victory on the pitch - but it wasn't to be, leaving United's chance of making the top four slim.

For West Ham, whilst the pre-match disturbances grabbed many column inches, a late comeback to seal an entertaining 3-2 win will be seen as a fitting tribute to their 112-year stint at the Boleyn Ground. However, as an emotional tribute met the full-time whistle, traditionalists across the country will have been asking why West Ham are deserting such a fantastic ground, which they clearly love so much. Modern football, eh?

As for the game, two goals in 21 second-half minutes from Antony Martial briefly turned the game on its head, after Diafra Sakho broke the deadlock. Martial showed great pace, ambition and guile to edge United ahead but, in truth, they were moments of rare brilliance on a largely disappointing night.

Goals from Michail Antonio and Winston Reid turned the contest back in West Ham's favour, left United hoping for a favour from Swansea City on the final day of the season and delivered a winning farewell for Upton Park.

Full Time – West Ham United 3-2 Manchester United
Attendance – 34,602