Cristiano Ronaldo reaction could help Manchester United change the mood around club

Ronaldo's relief

Cristiano Ronaldo's first goal of 2022 was notable for the celebration, or rather the lack of his trademark siuuuu celebration.

The 37-year-old created an angle for the shot and then pulled the trigger so quickly it left Robert Sanchez flat-footed in the Brighton goal, with the ball arrowing into the corner of the net.

As Ronaldo sprinted towards the Stretford End corner flag there were already supporters mimicking his celebration, but instead his relief and elation at finally ending his goal drought took hold. There was a knee slide towards the corner flag and then a furious fist punch towards the fans in that corner of the ground.

It signalled a player relieved that his magic touch had returned and determined to salvage something from this wreck of a season. Over the last few weeks Ronaldo had started to look like a mere mortal. He started this game brilliantly, with a sharp backheel to set up a chance for Jadon Sancho, but struggled in the first half after that.

His goal showcased the finishing instinct that he possesses, however. This had been his longest goal drought since 2008/09 and it had been the longest he'd gone into a calendar year without finding the back of the net since he first moved to United at the start of 2003/04.

Ronaldo's reaction was repeated by Bruno Fernandes when he got on the scoresheet in stoppage time, having missed one excellent chance earlier in the game. For a team struggling to score goals Ronaldo and Fernandes are going to be vital for the rest of this season.

McTominay's assist

Scott McTominay has already proved his worth as a holding midfielder for United and while he's learning some of the finer arts of the position his ability to win the ball back is a huge plus