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Manchester United's manager, Erik ten Hag, acknowledged fans' displeasure following a 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in a recent Premier League encounter. This marks the Red Devils' second successive home league defeat, further tarnishing their season's record with the fourth loss in just seven league matches.
Crystal Palace's Joachim Andersen was the sole scorer, finding the net in the first half and leaving Old Trafford in a state of shock. Although Manchester United dominated ball possession at 77% and initiated 19 attempts on goal, a mere four managed to challenge the keeper. The team's glaring lack of finishing precision and an inability to dismantle Crystal Palace's robust defense became the highlights of their setback.
The culmination of the match witnessed audible dissatisfaction from the home supporters, emphasizing their growing concern over the team's direction.
Addressing the media post-game, Ten Hag conveyed his understanding of the fans' sentiments. In a statement captured by Reuters, he affirmed the fans' right to their reactions, given the performance. He further stressed the urgent need for a string of victories to rebuild the team's confidence and momentum.
"I understand (the boos)," Ten Hag said.
"When we play at home or away and we play Crystal Palace, we have to win.
"With all respect, I know every game is very difficult, you have to play your best and I understand fans expecting a win and we didn't win. We lost.
"Of course we are concerned and we have to be more consistent. The demand is we get a row of wins and we have to do better than we do now," he added.
Despite the dampening defeat, Ten Hag remains optimistic about Manchester United's potential for a turnaround. The manager's faith in his squad's capabilities will undoubtedly be put to the test in upcoming matches.
"I can't blame the players, they gave everything," he said.
"But in the final part in both boxes we didn't do well. We only conceded three chances and they were from set plays when we were in control.
"We were often in the key areas but we didn't make the right decisions on and off the ball. We have to be more clinical and more determined if you want to score a goal, you have to show more willingness to get more impact to score a goal.
"We know we can do better and I am sure it will come," ten Hag added.
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