Stuffed and Bagged

United made Premier League history by keeping an eleventh clean sheet in a row, but the more telling story line here involved the attacking menace with which the Baggies were dispatched. Tony Mowbray said in the press conference afterwards: “When they (United) get flowing and the fluency is there, I don't think many teams in the world can stop them when they are in that mood of passing and moving the ball around.”

In truth, however, we all must feel some sympathy for Mowbray’s men, with Paul Robinson’s harsh red card and the marginal calls all going the Red Devil’s way. Rob Styles only enhanced his reputation as a bewilderingly card-happy referee. Nonetheless, the end-product was never in doubt.

This match and the 24-hours that transpired afterwards provide even more evidence for another title for the Old Trafford trophy case.

First, Berbatov scored another cutting-edge goal, one suggesting he’s entering a rich vein of form, and Ronaldo netted for the first time since mid-November. Ferguson noted afterwards: “We have shown a ruthlessness that has maybe not been there this season. We hoped it was going to come and we expected it because of the standard of forwards we have, but tonight was the first indication it was there." With the reemergence of that supremely-confident smile, Ronnie’s goal-scoring block appears lifted, much to the Premiership’s chagrin.

Second, Ferdinand and Brown both returned – yes, a Wes Brown sighting – to add much-needed depth and experience to a historically-good backline. Just wait until Evra and the bouncing Brazilians, Fabio and Rafael, return to add more forward width to an already potent line-up.

Third, Tosic and Eckersley gained more experience in the Premiership, as Fergie has used the deeper sub-list brilliantly to groom future players. We all know the unpredictability of the injury bug, so the more depth developed the better.

And last, Liverpool have not won in 20 days since Rafa’s rant against Sir Alex and United, after drawing 1-1 with Wigan on Wednesday. Once again, in post-match comments, Rafa puts the onus on others, saying “there’s nothing anyone can do when it (match) gets crazy.”

Besides the obvious dig at the ref, there’s nothing you can do?! Really?! How about not subbing Gerrard late?! How about not conceding a penalty in the 83rd-minute, Mr. Misplaced-Locus-of-Control. Rafa continues to defy logic, add pressure to his squad, and isolate himself. This all happens while United appear to add ruthlessness to a Premiership-best defense.

With the psychological operation “stuffed and bagged” commenced, bookies now place Rafa just behind Joe Kinnear in the sack race. Be careful Rafa. You can walk alone. Even at Anfield.