Bruno Fernandes produced a sensational hat-trick as Manchester United bounced back from their opening-day disappointment with a commanding 5-2 victory over Ipswich at Old Trafford.
United looked set for another frustrating afternoon when Leif Davis gave Ipswich the lead in the 29th minute, his effort crashing in off the crossbar. Manager Michael Carrick was facing the prospect of back-to-back defeats against promoted opposition after United had suffered a humiliating 2-0 loss at Hull on the opening weekend.
But Fernandes sparked United’s revival in the 40th minute. Marcelino Nunez’s mistake allowed Matheus Cunha to find the United captain, who produced a superb finish to level the score.
The hosts took control in the 56th minute when Ipswich defender Jacob Greaves turned Harry Maguire’s effort into his own net. Ipswich appealed for a handball against Maguire, but VAR rejected the claim.
Greaves endured an even worse spell minutes later when he brought down Cunha inside the box to concede a penalty. Fernandes confidently stepped up and converted from the spot to put United ahead.
The Portuguese midfielder completed his hat-trick in the 68th minute, finishing from close range after efforts from Kobbie Mainoo and Bryan Mbeumo were blocked.
It was Fernandes’ second Premier League hat-trick for United, following his three-goal haul against Leeds five years ago.
Fernandes then turned provider in the 82nd minute, setting up Mbeumo, who produced a clever lob that clipped the crossbar before dropping over the line to make it 5-1.
Chuba Akpom grabbed a stoppage-time consolation for Ipswich, but it did little to change the outcome as United cruised to victory and ended Ipswich’s unbeaten start since their return to the top flight.
“It was a massive result for us. We lost three points last week. First game at home, the fans have been waiting for this,” Fernandes said.
“Scoring goals is the best feeling in football. Doing a hat-trick at home with our fans is something I’m proud of. I hope I can do much more and help my teammates score too.”
