After the first 45 minutes, all were content, as the Toffees played deep, unadventurous football. No worries with the nil-nil score line. The goal will come.
Yet, with the introduction of Anichebe and Cahill coming on for the second 45 minutes, Everton became more confident with their smash-and-grab tactics. Their movements forward involved maintaining some easier possession; as for the first time you could see them getting something from the match.
And, much to the Red Devils’ chagrin, United began looking leggy and seemed to miss a cutting edge and a strong aerial presence, as Distin and the impressive Jagielka dispatched each cross easily. And, Tim Howard gobbled what service that got through.
In this game one goal will be enough, but would it come? That’s an entirely different question: forget the skinny bums, try stubby nail time, as the clock ticked away.
Normally you’d never ever bet against United to score late, with everything on the line facing the Stretford End. Heroics are commonplace on this ground, this end.
Yet, the scoreless streak now entered into its third match, so there’s validity to the palatable anxiety at Old Trafford and in front of TVs around the world. Surly, United wouldn’t go three matches without scoring, not with the beloved nineteen on the line, could we?
Man, that boy has goals in him – nineteen thus far, to be exact, a nice symmetry to the task at hand.
Fittingly, it’s with utter delight that Chicharito ended up with the match-winner, and likely title-decider, given his impact on the club this season with all of Rooney’s contract consternation and troubles off the pitch.
United couldn’t appreciate Hernandez’ poaching more during any other season but the present.
The little pea provides not only match-winners, ones often missing from United’s number ten much of the season, but his added pace allowed Wazza the space – figuratively and literally – to reinvent himself.
Chicharito is the chemical catalyst, a much needed dimension to United’s attacking verve. Whereas Giggsy, Nani, or Rooney pick the lock, Chicharito grabs the gold with infectious, child-like joy, reminding us all this game’s fun first-and-foremost.
Afterwards, Sir Alex reflected on Chicharito’s contributions this year, as he spoke with Sky Sports 2.
''We didn't expect that (level of performance),'' admitted Ferguson.
''We thought a year of introducing him to the club and adapting to English football and strengthening him up. He's done all those things already. He comes in every day at nine and he's the last to leave, this boy is very dedicated.''
Thus, the shocking secret’s revealed: the boy has dedication in him, much to the Toffees and title wannabes chagrin.
Switching gears to a side note…
Funny the sub consciousness of a fan’s mindset.
The night before the Champions League Final against Chelsea, I had a re-occurring dream of the United faithful signing, in the rain nonetheless, “Man United will never die” – a wonderful premonition of impending glory.
Well, without any conscious thought, I’ve had Steely Dan’s “Hey Nineteen” playing non-stop in my head, obviously matching Chicharito’s goal scoring and United’s impending title tally. Pass the Cuervo Gold, as this season’s a wonderful thing.
Hey Nineteen
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Back at you late after the Champions League match on Tuesday. Fingers crossed my own personal media blackout will hold, as I can’t get out of work, unfortunately. Cheers.
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