AZ re-asserted themselves into the game soon after, with the quick-footed Julian Oerip causing problems on the edge of United’s area. Habeeb Ogunneye, in his last action before going off injured, provided one excellent clearance, and fellow full-back Harry Amass offered another. Will Murdock made two necessary saves, too, though with comfort.
From one of the resulting corners, however, AZ benefitted as United failed to clear, with Yoel van den Ban providing the final touch to take it — just — over the line.
United were thankful for the half-time whistle, as AZ built momentum, with the lively Oerip drawing an excellent save from Murdock.
