Scott McTominay used to social media to show off the terrible battle scars he received during Manchester United’s hard-fought 4-2 win over Leeds.
The two ancient rivals rekindled their rivalry in the Premier League on Sunday at a hostile Elland Road, in difficult conditions due to a heavy downpour at halftime.
Despite surviving a second-half scare as Leeds fought back from a 2-0 deficit, United came out on top in difficult circumstances.
Headers from Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes in the first half gave the Red Devils a comfortable two-goal lead before the break, before two Leeds goals in the space of a minute triggered panic.
First, a Rodrigo cross soared over the head of a helpless David De Gea, before Raphinha tapped in at the back post to send Elland Road into chaos.
After Fred restored United’s lead just minutes after coming in, Anthony Elanga grabbed a crucial three points for Ralf Rangnick’s side in the closing stages.
The most recent meeting between the two rivals was a Premier League classic played in difficult conditions, with inclement weather taking its toll on the pitch.
United midfielder McTominay, on the other hand, was unfazed by the difficulties, putting in an all-action performance that saw him involved in a number of violent collisions.
After the game, the Scot took to social media and tweeted a number of photographs from the game, including one of his scarred left ankle, with the caption: ‘Leeds away – genuine game.’
The 25-year-tenacious old’s effort garnered high praise from colleague midfielder Fernandes, who emphasised McTominay’s importance to this United team.
In many games, Fred and Scotty (McTominay) are two players that are very crucial for us,” the Portuguese playmaker told MUTV.
McTominay had an immediate impact, and a collision with Leeds defender Robin Koch forced the German to be replaced by Junior Firpo.
Despite being praised for his tenacity and drive, many believe McTominay was fortunate to get it through the entire 90 minutes at Elland Road.
The midfielder was not penalised for his previous collision with Koch, but he did receive a yellow card with just under 15 minutes remaining.
After going in on replacement Firpo, the Scot should have been sent off moments later, but referee Paul Teirney took no action, infuriating the Leeds camp.
Raphinha spearheaded the home side’s protests, but he ended up collecting a yellow card – one of nine in the game – instead.
For the first time in 18 years, the two rivals squared battle in front of fans at Elland Road, with United claiming the victory.
Not only that, but the three points gave them a four-point lead in the race for a top-four finish in the Premier League, albeit West Ham, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Wolves are still in contention.
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