Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea: 5 Hits and Flops

#1 Hit: Marcos Alonso

Alonso's clever finish angled into the bottom corner as de Gea's mistake proved costly

Who'd have thought it? After the turbulent season he's had, Marcos Alonso finally finds himself in the hits column for once and it's thoroughly deserved. Defensively suspect and questionable in tackles, the experienced Spaniard produced a solid display despite again showing some of the flaws which make him so susceptible to fans' criticism.

He completed two tackles, three interceptions and a game-high six clearances as United enjoyed early spells of pressure. Despite only winning 41% of his duels (7 of 17 total), he recorded a respectable 83.7% pass completion rate too.

However, his crossing was inaccurate to say the least while he found himself dispossessed (4) too often. He attempted four crosses, none of which were successful - but you could not fault his effort. Only Nemanja Matic (88) had more touches than the Spaniard's 83, as he was eager to get forward and create chances with Chelsea often struggling for creativity.

He reacted quickest before taking his finish well, slotting into the bottom corner after Rudiger's initial effort was fumbled - despite the fortuitous circumstances which presented the chance at his feet. Defending better than we're used to seeing this season, the timing couldn't be better placed with must-win fixtures to come between now and next month when the campaign is complete.

Chelsea battled hard and remain in the Champions League qualification places, while the first leg of their Europa League semi-final against Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt awaits this coming Thursday.

Stats' source: WhoScored, Opta