‘Sloppy defending’ – Peter Schmeichel faults Dorgu, Heaven for Semi Ajayi opener

Peter Schmeichel has singled out Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven for their roles in Semi Ajayi’s opening goal as Manchester United suffered a 2-0 defeat to Hull City on Saturday.

The former Manchester United goalkeeper was unimpressed with the Red Devils’ defending as Ajayi punished their failure to deal with a corner at the MKM Stadium.

The Nigeria international reacted quickest inside the box to smash the ball home from close range after United failed to properly clear the set-piece, handing Hull the lead in the first half.

Analysing the goal at half-time, Schmeichel questioned the concentration and positioning of Dorgu and Heaven, who were involved in defending the corner.

“This is sloppy defending, this is all about concentrating,” Schmeichel said on Premier League Productions, as monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com.

He particularly criticised Dorgu for failing to keep his eyes on the delivery and prevent the initial ball from causing problems.

“Look at Dorgu, Dorgu on the front post, he is not even looking at the guy taking the corner kick. At that exact moment, he loses his concentration, he does not have the ability to block the first ball,” he said.

Schmeichel also turned his attention to Heaven, who was positioned at the back post when Ajayi eventually found the net.

“And of course, Ayden Heaven on the back post. That’s not how you defend, you have to be stronger.”

United punished for another lapse

Ajayi’s goal set the tone for a miserable opening half for Ruben Amorim’s side, who struggled to impose themselves against the newly-promoted hosts.

Hull doubled their advantage shortly before the interval when debutant Nobel Mendy headed home, leaving United with a mountain to climb after just 45 minutes.

Schmeichel also questioned the intensity and collective effort of the visitors, suggesting their first-half performance lacked the required work rate.

“You have to say that for most Manchester United players, it feels like they are not working out well,” he concluded.

The defeat also saw Hull create Premier League history, becoming the first newly-promoted side to beat Manchester United in the opening match of a league season.

United had previously avoided defeat in all 12 of their opening league fixtures against newly-promoted opposition, winning nine and drawing three.

Ajayi’s goal therefore proved significant beyond giving Hull an early advantage, with the defender helping his side secure a landmark victory while exposing further defensive concerns for Manchester United.