Fabulous Result

A tasty tie on paper became largely tasteless in product, an unfortunate consequence of Champions League group play between the two heavy favorites. United's recent history of goalless draws in Spain looked set to repeat itself tonight.

Both sides played cagey, conservative, and often sloppy football for most of the match, as there wasn’t a shot on goal during the first half and only two prior to Chicharito's 85th-minute winner.

Surprising that Valencia didn't send more players forward until late, and in the end, they got what they deserved for their lack of ambition.

Initially, United supporters worried about the form and flow from the starting eleven, given the insertion of Carrick, Anderson, and Rio fresh off injury, the limited minutes of Park and Rafael thus far, and the lack of Rooney, Scholes, and Giggs for creativity.

Many changes. Many questions.

The midfield looked very rusty with the first touch but largely disciplined defending. The backline once again appeared largely solid with the addition of Rio Ferdinand. But the creativity, oh the creativity – where for art thou creativity?

Fergie made two fortuitous substitutions in Javier Hernandez for Anderson and Kiko for Berba, as possession went tic-tac-toe from Nani to Kiko to Chicharito for the game winning goal for the precious three points.

When we look back on tonight, after some distance, we'll eventually forget the poor quality of the match and only remember Chicharito's coming out party. A huge goal from the Mexican.

His incisive run, quality first touch, and deft finish placed an emphatic stamp on his intent at United, if you couldn't tell from the badge kissing that followed his joyful, Christ-like pose after the goal. He simply “has it” – THAT striker electricity, a deadly combination of quick thinking, timing, pace, touch, and finishing. United certainly need this dimension, with Rooney expected to be out for three weeks.

Thus far, we've learned that the Red Devils do have strength in depth and quality across the front line. And after today's much calmer and impressive back line performance, let's all pray for Rio Ferdinand's good health continues.

We knew one goal would settle the night for whomever netted it first. Thank God Fergie possessed the faith and magic touch to include Kiko and Chicharito during today's festivities. What a fabulous result, one that puts United back into the driver's seat in Group C.

Back at you after the Sunderland match. And the Reds go marching on, on, on.