FIRST HALF
United came out with clear intentions from the opening whistle, aiming to play with speed and intensity. Athletic took a moment to settle in, with a risky pass at the back intercepted by right-winger Bendito Mantato. However, lacking the space for a shot, Mantato passed it wide to captain Jacob Devaney, whose attempt was deflected.
Despite the lively start, further scoring opportunities were scarce. Athletic, on one of their early advances, earned a free-kick at the edge of the area. Asier Hierro executed a well-placed low shot from a central position, curving it around the wall and into the bottom right corner, leaving United goalkeeper Will Murdock unable to respond.
In the following moments, Murdock made two key saves as Athletic began to assert control. The first came from a straightforward effort by right-back Daniel Perez, who had surged forward after the visitors regained possession in United’s half. Four minutes later, Murdock had to extend fully to deflect Gaizka Alboniga-Menor’s left-footed shot from 12 yards around the right post.
