In a pulsating Premier League clash, Darren Fletcher's first game as Manchester United's interim head coach ended in frustration as Burnley snatched a late draw. The match, played at Turf Moor on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, saw Benjamin Sesko's brace for United canceled out by an own goal and a stunning strike from Jaidon Anthony for Burnley.
The Clarets took an unexpected lead in the first half when Ayden Heaven's deflected cross looped into his own net, giving Burnley a 1-0 advantage at halftime. Despite United's dominance in possession and chances, they found themselves trailing at the break. Sessions had multiple opportunities but was thwarted by Martin Dubravka's impressive saves. Lisandro Martinez had a goal disallowed for offside, adding to United's first-half woes.
Fletcher made a double change at halftime, swapping Matheus Cunha and Bruno Fernandes. The changes paid off immediately as Fernandes set up Sesko to equalize just moments into the second half. The Slovenian striker then doubled his tally, converting Patrick Dorgu's cross to put United ahead. However, Burnley had other plans.
Substitute Jaidon Anthony turned the game on its head with a spectacular strike, curling the ball high beyond Senne Lammens to level the scores at 2-2. United's youngster Shea Lacey had a chance to win it for the visitors but saw his effort come back off the bar.
The draw extends United's run of consecutive draws to three, following stalemates against Wolves and Leeds. For Burnley, the point could prove invaluable in their battle against relegation. The Clarets have now taken five points from their last three games, including a draw against Liverpool.
Player ratings reflected a closely contested match, with Benjamin Sesko named Player of the Match for his brace. Dubravka and Humphreys impressed for Burnley, while Fernandes and Sesko were standouts for United.
The result leaves United in fifth place, two points behind fourth-placed Newcastle, while Burnley remain in the relegation zone, just one point above the drop. The match also highlighted the challenges Fletcher faces in his interim role, following Ruben Amorim's recent departure.
Fans look ahead to United's next fixture, hoping for a change in fortune as the season progresses. For Burnley, the draw offers a glimmer of hope in their quest for Premier League survival. The Premier League table remains tightly packed, with many teams still in contention for European places and survival.
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