Manchester United impressively took the points against Fenerbahce with a 4-1 success at Old Trafford, helped by two first half penalties.
Jose Mourinho was accused of "parking the bus" at Liverpool on Monday as his United team set out to frustrate their opponents, but tonight at Old Trafford different tactics were needed against Group A leaders Fenerbahce to ensure his team retain an interest in the Europa League with just three points separating the four teams.
Initially it was Fenerbahce who set out their defensive stall inviting United to find a way through. Plenty of possession was had by the home side but a lack of inspiration in the final third looked like sending the game in scoreless at the break.
But in the space of four minutes United were awarded two penalties then added a third in first half injury time to totally change the complexion of the game.
Michael Carrick's pass found Juan Mata who was bundled to the ground by Simon Kjaer and Paul Pogba ignored the time wasting tactics of keeper Volkan Demirel to stroke home the first spot kick.
Then it was Mata who provided the ball for Anthony Martial to chase only for Sener Ozbayrakli to bring him down. The victim wasted no time in dispatching the penalty.
The Turkish team began to show some attacking intent and Brazilian Souza almost halved the deficit but David de Gea saved well from close range.
But, on the stroke of half-time, Fenerbahce carelessly conceded possession and the ball was worked to Pogba who powered home from 20 yards.
An early goal was needed in the second period, either to give Fenerbahce some hope or for the hosts to seal the win. Unfortunately for the visitors it was United who gained the advantage. Jesse Lingard collected the ball and drilled number four from just outside the penalty area. The sizeable, and previously vociferous Turkish support, were stunned into silence.
Fenerbahce gamely took the game to United and showed signs of being a half decent side which simply highlighted the impressive performance of the Old Trafford team.
Manchester United old-boy Robin van Persie was given a warm reception on his return and got a big cheer when he scored late-on for a Fenerbahce consolation.
Full Time
Man Utd: 4 (Pogba pen 31, 45, Martial pen 35, Lingard 48
Fenerbahce: 1 (van Persie 83)
