As a low-key Manchester United fan, the excitement for pre-season matches is always thrilling. This year, I had the incredible chance to watch my favourite team from my childhood face off against Rangers at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh on Saturday 20th July. The match was not just about football; it was an experience filled with atmosphere, camaraderie among fans, and the thrill of a new season approaching. Let me share my experience of witnessing United's 2-0 victory firsthand.
Setting the Scene: Murrayfield Stadium
Murrayfield Stadium, primarily known for rugby, transformed into a buzzing football arena for this friendly match by Scottish Rugby Hospitality. The bright green pitch contrasted vividly with the gray Edinburgh sky, as the deep sound of excited fans filled the space.
While some friends questioned the allure of a friendly, I was immersed in the electric energy surrounding me. Fans, proudly dressed in Manchester United red and Rangers blue, created a friendly and lively atmosphere, reminding us all that football brings people together.
The camaraderie between the two sets of fans highlighted the essence of football – it's not only about rivalry but also about community, passion, and a shared love for the game.
Excitement Builds Before the Match
As kickoff drew near, cheers and banter filled the air. Bagpipes were played from the stadium roof as both teams received a traditional Scottish welcome.
Arriving early at the stadium allowed me to absorb the atmosphere fully. The scents of delicious food wafted through the entrance, inviting fans to enjoy a pre-match snack.
Once inside, I found my way to the Press Gallery and took my seat beside other members of the media.
Kickoff: The Match Begins
Delayed by 15 minutes to enable all 56,574 fans to safely get into the stadium, finally the whistle blew, and the match kicked off. The buzz inside the stadium reached a crescendo.
From the beginning, Manchester United appeared sharp and focused, understanding the importance of starting the pre-season on a high note. The players executed crisp passes, and the drive to push forward was evident.
Amad Diallo marked his first appearance of pre-season in style, with a left-footed strike in the 39th minute. The roar from the United supporters was deafening as a collective moment of joy for the United fans.
Rangers Responds with a Fight
Rangers showed resilience, pressing for opportunities and challenging United’s lead. The match unfolded with a thrilling exchange of attacks, even when United held the advantage. Each time Rangers made a drive towards the goal, I could feel the tension rise.
The Final Whistle: Securing the Win
As the second half kicked off, the Edinburgh rain intensified the competition between the sides until the 70th minute when United struck again with a fierce drive by Joe Hugill. The atmosphere exploded as United fans celebrated the pre-season win.
With the sound of the final whistle signalling the end of proceedings, I found myself being escorted downstairs to the Media Room for the post-match press conference, and interviews United's Andre Onana and Ranger's John Souttar.
A Fantastic Day Out
The match and the surrounding experience inspired reflection on the meaning of pre-season games. They provide a platform for players to bond, welcome new signings, and allow fans to connect with the team.
Fans saw a first glimpse of French defender Leny Yoro, who had a solid first 45 minutes in a United shirt following his arrival from Lille. A mixture of youth and experience in Erik ten Hag's line-up, which included the return of Jadon Sancho.
Rangers, whose Scottish Premiership season begins on 3rd August, had two familiar faces in their XI as former Reds goalkeeper Jack Butland captained the side and ex-forward Tom Lawrence was also in from the off.
Anticipating the Season Ahead
Looking back on the day, my experience watching Manchester United beat Rangers 2-0 at Murrayfield was truly unforgettable. It reignited my passion for football and built excitement for the season ahead.
With pre-season underway, the anticipation of what lies ahead for the Premier League and the Scottish Premiership is palpable. Who knows what thrilling moments await us in the months ahead?!
So, whether you are a dedicated fan or someone who enjoys the sport casually, I highly encourage you to attend a match this season. It is an experience like no other. Here’s to a fantastic season of football!
LINE-UPS: FIRST HALF
Manchester United: Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Yoro, Evans, Murray; Casemiro (c), Collyer; Amad, Mount, Sancho; Wheatley.
Rangers: Butland (c); Sterling, Souttar, Davies, Jefte; Diomande, Barron; Cortes, Lawrence, Wright; Dessers.
LINE-UPS: SECOND HALF
Manchester United: Onana (c); Ogunneye, Fish, Bennett, Amass; J.Fletcher, Oyedele; Mather, Hannibal, Ennis; Hugill.
Subs not used: Mee, Vitek, Aljofree, Jackson, Scanlon.
Rangers: Butland (c); Sterling (King 75), Souttar (Goldson 75), Davies (Balogun 75), Jefte (Ridvan 75); Diomande (McKinnon 75), Barron (Dowell 75); Cortes (Matondo HT), Lawrence (McCausland 75), Wright (Lowry 75); Dessers (Danilo 75).
Subs not used: Kelly, Budinauckas.
Referee: Don Robertson.
Attendance: 56,574.
📸 Images by Jenna's Jamboree