Fulham produced an improved performance but were beaten by Wayne Rooney’s late strike. Here’s how we rated the players in their 1-0 defeat at Craven Cottage.
Mark Schwarzer: 7
Made instinctive reaction saves to deny Antonio Valencia and Nani in the first half and further stops denied Robin van Persie in the second. Not much he could do about the goal with Rooney allowed space to shoot.
Sascha Riether: 8
Had a fine game. His performance should ensure he is first choice for the immediate future despite the arrival of Stanislav Manolev.
Brede Hangeland: 7
Did well before being substituted at half-time with an apparent Achilles problem. Fulham will hope their captain is not out of action for long.
Philippe Senderos: 6
His limitations remain obvious but this was one of Senderos’ better performances until he misjudged the flight of Jonny Evans’ long ball forward and allowed Rooney to score.
John Arne Riise: 6
Was less effective than usual from wide left positions but he tested the reactions of keeper David De Gea with a dipping first-half attempt from distance.
Ashkan Dejagah: 6
Still has some way to go before he is anything like the finished article. He was often wasteful in the final third but worked hard and got into good areas.
Giorgos Karagounis: 6
Continues to bely his age and he put in a workmanlike performance against one of the league’s best midfield pairings.
Chris Baird: 7
Had big boots to fill in place of the injured Steve Sidwell and did an excellent job of limiting the threats of Michael Carrick and Tom Cleverley.
Damien Duff: 7
Playing off the left, Duff worked hard for his team, protecting Riise as Rafael attempted to attack down the right-hand side.
Bryan Ruiz: 5
Was largely disappointing. His movement and passing were poor.
Hugo Rodallega: 6
Another who worked tirelessly but playing as a lone striker is not his favoured position and it showed.
Aaron Hughes: 6
Replaced the injured Hangeland at half-time and did best to fill in but he was also suspect for Rooney’s winner. He backed off the England forward and gave him space to find the corner.
Urby Emanuelson: 6
A debut against United is tough for any player, but he showed glimpses of excellent vision and potential to be a link between defence and attack, which Fulham need.
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This post was last modified on 03/02/2013