Sesko Double Rescues Point as United’s Search for Momentum Goes On
Interim era begins without the release Old Trafford craved
Darren Fletcher’s first night in charge of Manchester United failed to deliver the cathartic victory the club so desperately wanted after another week of upheaval. Instead, United were forced to settle for a draw against Burnley, a result that neither eased the tension nor fully lifted the mood. Yet amid the uncertainty, one clear positive emerged in the form of Benjamin Sesko.
The Slovenian forward struck twice to double his season tally and offered a timely reminder of his potential. “It’s been tough but now I finally did it,” Sesko said afterwards, expressing hope that this could be the platform for a strong finish to the campaign.
Early setback exposes familiar flaws
United’s problems resurfaced early on. Ayden Heaven’s unfortunate own goal handed Burnley a lead and put Scott Parker’s side on course for what would have been their first win since October. It was also the first time Burnley had led a match since early November, underlining just how vulnerable United appeared.
Fletcher, breaking from the rigid structure of the Ruben Amorim era, set his team up in a 4-2-3-1 with Bruno Fernandes operating behind Sesko. Fernandes was the only change from the draw at Leeds, but despite brief flashes of quality, United struggled badly for imagination. Long balls came to nothing and attacking movement was disjointed, allowing Burnley to grow in confidence.
A disallowed Lisandro Martínez goal further frustrated the visitors, while Burnley threatened again through Marcus Edwards and Lucas Pires. By half-time, there was no sign of a new-manager bounce, just a side weighed down by indecision.
Sesko sparks revival after the break
United finally showed urgency early in the second half. A flowing move culminated in Fernandes slipping Sesko through, and the 22-year-old finished emphatically to level the score. Suddenly, United found rhythm and belief.
Chances followed in quick succession. Fernandes struck the post, Heaven headed wide from a corner, and Sesko struck again with a beautifully timed low volley after a sharp run and cross from Patrick Dorgu. For a moment, it felt like United had turned a corner.
Late sting denies Fletcher first win
Burnley were not done. Substitute Jaidon Anthony produced a stunning equaliser, cutting inside and curling a long-range effort beyond Senne Lammens to silence the travelling support. Sesko then missed a golden chance for a hat-trick late on, while Shea Lacey went close, leaving the draw to feel just about fair.
For Fletcher, the wait for a first win goes on. For United, so does the search for stability.
