How the British media reacted after Marcus Rashford scored his first goal for Aston Villa following a 3-0 win over Preston North End in the FA Cup.
Marcus Rashford finally netted his first goals for Aston Villa after signing for the Birmingham club on loan from Manchester United two months ago.
The Carrington Academy graduate started for Unai Emery’s side as they defeated Preston North End 3-0 to clinch a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals, where they will face Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium.
Rashford’s opening goal came with a neat first-time finish with his right foot beyond goalkeeper David Cornell after a low cross from Lucas Digne, while his second was a penalty just minutes later that sent Cornell the wrong way.
Jacob Ramsey rounded off the tie with a driving run through Preson’s midfield and a good finish to seal the victory.
How British media reacted to Rashford’s performance
With Rashford being awarded the Player of the Match award for his two goals and fantastic performance, the British media have handed glowing reviews to the 27-year-old.
“He’s full of confidence, Marcus Rashford,” former Hull defender Alex Bruce said on BBC Radio 5 Live following his second goal. “He’s been the shining light in terms of his quality.”
Aston Villa News wrote: “Finally, Rashford has a goal in Villa colours. The 27-year-old capped off a performance where he created the most chances on the pitch with three, with two goals to all but secure the win,” handing Rashford a 9/10 rating for his display.
Birmingham Live handed him an 8/10, saying: “Rashford was searching for his first goal in claret and blue as he led the line in the first half. He didn’t get a sight of goal in the first period apart from a couple of free-kicks from distance. After being picked out by Rogers shortly after the restart, his effort was saved by Cornell inside the box. As Villa started to turn the screw, Rashford bagged a brace in the space of five minutes.”
Birmingham World also weighed in, giving Rashford a 9/10 and stating: “Scored his first two goals – the first a tidy finish and the second a calm penalty – to send Villa on their way. Had two other shots on target, taking his tally to four overall in what was a superb display leading the line in place of Ollie Watkins.”
Former United and Villa striker Dion Dublin was also full of praise. Today will be good for Rashford physically and mentally, knowing full well he can finish when he wants to finish,” Dublin said.
“He makes so many runs. We are all in agreement that we’d like to see him on the left, but if he is happy playing down the middle, then so be it. As soon as you give him the option and the chance to score goals, he will. He is a potent striker when you give him lots of chances.”
What Rashford said after Villa win
After being handed the Player of the Match award, Rashford admitted he is happy to finally get on the scoresheet for Villa.
Yeah, it’s a great feeling,” he told the BBC. “I feel like I’ve slowly been getting fitter and playing better football since I’ve been here. So, um, yeah, it’s obviously nice for a forward to always get goals, so hopefully it continues.”
Asked how close he feels to getting back to his true form, he continued: “Step-by-step, I think I can still get fitter. I missed a lot of football before joining up with them.
“So, you know, at the minute my body feels good and, you know, I’m injury-free and just enjoying my football, so all good for now.”
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