Defenseless

Did anyone else feel superstitious as the commentators and pundits droned on and on about United’s incredible record against Spurs?

Eventually the odds do even out, as ghosts of the phantom-no-goal get paid in full today as Spurs break their Old Trafford duck circa 1989.

Supporters must be incensed at the Reds right now, with he deficiencies of this club so evident for so long, and papering over them clearly won’t work this campaign – no way, no how – as this trend dates back well before last year’s Champions League exit.

Here’s an issues list in no particular order…

First, it’s a squad heavily reliant upon aging players in key positions, including Ferdinand, Evra, Giggs and Scholes, which becomes vulnerable to pace and gets picked apart.

Second, it’s a squad without a coherent defense, one lacking the tenacity to win the ball back. Ferguson must realize that they cannot rely on two excellent passers – Carrick and Scholes – to lay so deep much of the time and create this giant gap in central midfield. United look fine moving forward, but fall back too far off the ball, giving opponents way too much space and allowing them to come at the Reds with the ball at their feet. Succinctly: United lack a spine.

Third, it’s an indifferent squad for large stretches of matches, whether that’s due to age, poor form, lack of pace, or some evil combination thereof, it takes a goal from Liverpool or Sir Alex’s hairdryer to get them going far too often. The team cries out for an inspirational leader, and thankfully, the most likely candidate, Wayne Rooney, looked sharp in his half of football today. Fingers crossed here.

Of the three dominant issues, what’s most troubling is the over-reliance on a tandem of Carrick and Scholes. What’s most troubling is the exceedingly obvious need for central midfield help.

When Carrick or Scholes push much further forward, this is an entirely different side – one with the verve and venom witnessed in the final 45 minutes today.

But, should United loose possession, they’re extremely susceptible on the counter-attack, as neither player tracks back quickly, defends nor tackles well enough to justify playing together, often flat, as a shield against higher-quality competition. One of the two starters here need to win balls, tackle, and harass anything central – a real “none shall pass” demeanor and demonstration. It’s far too easy to come at United now.

During the last year’s pre-season and early Premiership campaign, United’s midfield looked particularly pedestrian at times – that is until Ferguson employed a combination of Anderson and Cleverly central.

Remember what this squad looked like with these players fit, in-form, and synched together?

That’s exactly what’s required now. So where are they?

Well, you can’t force form and Ferguson’s forgot more about football than any dear reader of this post, assuredly. We need to trust the gaffer.

However, has Sir Alex shown too much confidence in players such as Anderson, Cleverly, and Nani? There’s a growing case being made to justify such questions.

United may be threadbare at the back now and we all know this too shall pass in the next month or so, as players return from injury. The quality across the back four seems fully deserving of every opportunity to continue to grow, under the tutelage of Ferdinand and Vidic.

I don’t feel that way about the central midfield at all.

First, Cleverly looked like he belonged on the Barcelona team sheet for a short stretch last season, yet his build and tendency to turn defenders may make him susceptible and vulnerable to injury in the BPL. It remains to be seen if the Reds can rely on him.

Second, with all due respect, none of us know what we’ll get from Fletcher, given his bowl disorder. We all hope and pray for his return to form. But we can’t bank on it. Which leads to the third and final point.

What’s up with Anderson?

His potential was so blisteringly hot upon arrival to Old Trafford. As a lad, he started in the central midfield at home against Liverpool in 2008 and bossed matters much of the match – a true pit-bull performance extraordinaire, never looking out of place, and a sign of things to come.

Hardly.

Since that first season, you simply wonder who’s taken over that player’s body, as the he’s had some injuries but largely seems to have regressed even when fit. Arguably, United need Ander-son-son-son to realized his potential more than any other player in the first-team not named Fletcher.

How long will we wait for him?

How long can we wait for him?

I hate it when Reds over-react to some temporary problem with the club and demand spending to fill any perceived deficiency. United have justifiably shown great faith in developing players.

But this term, the gaffer can’t hide the growing problems any longer, as key players age and the recipe for beating United is crystal clear as well as more accessible to more clubs now than at any time in recent history – again, we reference the Champions League last term.

United need a specific central midfield quality to challenge for the Premiership title and have any chance of advancing in the Champions League.

Will the Reds fill this void in the January transfer market?

Inactivity will be as defenseless as today’s brutal first-half performance. 

Two Generations Star As United Waste Wigan

“Welcome to Manchester!” in more ways than one for the newcomers to Old Trafford, Alex Büttner and Nick Powell, as Sir Alex employs a line-up without Cleverley, Evra, Kagawa, van Persie, and Valencia, among the noticeable absences.

Büttner, Chicharito, Danny Welbeck, and Ryan Giggs start, with squad rotation in the mind ahead of two huge fixtures this week against Galatasaray in the Champions League and Liverpool at Anfield.

Ferguson’s purchase to cover-and-motivate Evra won over the fans by demonstrating tenaciousness, good pace, and an effective overlap.

He also opened his United account with penetrating – and somewhat fortunate, at one point – mazy run through the box and a short-range missile off Al-Habsi to make it 3-0.

Welcome to United indeed, Mr. Büttner, my co-Man of the Match.

Next, we consider the second-half substitute, Nick Powell, who security did not recognize upon his first day’s training at Carrington, ironically enough, needs no further introduction Old Trafford faithful with a nice touch to space followed by a laser from the top of the box past the helpless keeper to make it 4-0 in his first appearance.

Powell came on for Scholes and seemed to replicate the ginger-haired-assassin’s presence on the pitch, albeit for 18 minutes with United well ahead. Composure, a few penetrating passes forward, followed by a trademark strike capped off a bright start for the man from Crewe Alexandra.

Mr. Powell, you won’t be anonymous at Old Trafford, or Carrington, for that matter, ever again. Consider yourself part of the fold.

Beyond the debutants, this return-to-normal-service match didn’t start that way though, with Chicharito missing a soft penalty awarded to United in the 6th minute, as Al-Habsi pulled out of a challenge with Welbeck.

Maybe, just maybe there’s a bit of contact, but if you can’t tell even on super-slow-motion replay, then decision seems quite harsh.

You wondered if this would be one of those days, with the score tied at nil-nil at half. In a reverse-psychological-way, knowing that Wigan have never beaten United on this ground, as the commentators remind us, as thousands of Red Devils knock on wood across the globe. Squandered opportunities, especially penalties, can backfire on teams even early in matches.

However, United gave up a few semi-decent counter-attacking chances, but largely remained in control of the match moving into the second half.

Then, he scores goals in the 51^st minute, my other co-Man of the Match.

Every single inch-perfect pass, turn, clumsy challenge, and goal is cherished by Red Devils, having already mourned Scholes retiring once.

Everything, absolutely everything he does on the pitch now is pure gravy, including THAT look of pure child-like joy, after scoring, is as infectious as ever. Pure and utter delight, as it should be. Brilliant.

Looking back now, from the larger perspective, the symbolism dripping off the result – Scholes’ 700^th appearance for United, Giggs’ 600^th Premier League match, and Sir Alex’s 500^th home league match – seems entirely fitting for this campaign.

It makes total sense that Scholesy should break the game’s duck and that two debutants should open up their accounts all in the same match. Past glory meets future promise on the pitch, all from the games best alchemist, Sir Alex Ferguson.

Looking into a future, you sense that our beloved gaffer’s meticulously developed the club’s culture for long-term success.

He’s built a world-class organization, one where everyone’s involved, from the tea lady to manger, one where you expect late goals, one where youth is nurtured as well as given opportunity, and one where nobody’s bigger than the club. Nobody.

There is a United way, and for that, we are all immeasurably thankful.

And this match is as symbolic as it gets.

Our South Coast Savior: Robin van Persie

Would United’s historic difficulty with Southampton rear its ugly head or would the Saints look like they’ve been promoted one division too far?

Full credit goes to Nigel Adkins for successive promotions and setting up to attack the Red Devils. Why not? You’re at home. Go for it.

Sir Alex’s set-up involved the 4-2-3-1, with Lindegaard and Rio added to the backline as well as Carrick and Cleverly in front of the back four. Welbeck, Kagawa, and Valencia next, with van Persie allowed a roam across the front and drift as desired. This formation relies heavily on Evra to push forward for width, as Welbeck often pinched central to play off RVP’s movement.

The match started with United dominating and probing the Saints, who did not touch of the ball for the first few minutes. Maybe this is a walk in the park.

On the contrary, Southampton pushed forward and attacked, leaving their right flank exposed, if caught in possession.

But, it was United who gifted the Saints the ball on this flank, getting two midfielders caught pressing forward, as they could only watch helplessly as the ball was pinged wide for a diagonal cross that saw Lambert rise above Rafael to make it 1-0.

United wouldn’t be outdone, however, as it was soon 1-1 from an identical cross from Valencia to van Persie drifting on the far post, who chested it down superbly as the fullback fell and drilled home his trademark left-foot, far-post laser.

At half, pundits wondered aloud if the Saints could keep up with United, as chasing possession and defending becomes tiresome.

Yet, nobody predicted that Southampton would better the Red Devils for important stretches of the second half, creating nearly as many chances as Ferguson’s men.

When a player, who has never scored a home goal, does, you know you’re in serious trouble.

Again, United concede another goal from a cross, as Evra slips, with slapstick, comic affect, and Schneiderlin heads the ball across goal for a 2-1 lead.

Unbelievable.

Soon afterwards, Sir Alex makes needed changes, as Scholes comes for Cleverly as well as Nani replaces Kagawa, with Welbeck moving central and the number seventeen heading wide left. A much more balanced attack now for United to challenge a Southampton side tempted to sit back, defend, and hit on the counter.

Immediately, Scholes’ insertion pays dividends, as he sends an exquisite through ball to RVP, who forces a point blank shot from Davis.

United up the pressure, leaving themselves a little exposed at times, searching for the equalizer. The final ball seemed fleeting for the Reds, with the Saints difficult to breakdown with nine behind the ball, especially with poor crossing and possession cheaply given away.

Would this be another one of those days?

In the 69^th minute, Nani gratefully intercepts Davis’ poor clearance, which he brings wide, pirouettes and plays a cross to RVP’s feet on the spot. Fonte rips down the number twenty from behind during his turn: a stone-cold penalty.

Finally, the breakthrough that United need.

Up steps the lethal van Persie, who decides, unfortunately, to cheekily chip the keeper, plays the ball too low, and Davis reaches back to swat it wide. A major chance wasted.

All signs point to it being exactly one of those furiously frustrating days.

United keep up the pressure, though, which leads to a corner, with only minutes left before stoppage time.

Nani over hits yet another corner, which gets played wide, then back into the box, where a wide open Rio sees his header clang off the inside of the post right to the gleeful van Persie. We’re tied just like that. Escape hatch released.

The stunned Saints can’t believe their luck, conceding another late goal to a Manchester club. Four minutes of injury time remain.

Again, the Red Devils surge forward against a wounded opponent. Another Fonte turnover, then his mishit clearance give United a corner with two minutes to play.

For all the shtick I give Nani for poor corners, the number seventeen got inch-perfect the defining cross of the match.

The Portuguese played the near-post corner perfectly to a darting RVP, who flicks a picture-perfect, glancing header up and over Davis and just under the bar. Stunning is an understatement, as it’s an absolutely brilliant turn for the Red Devils.

We’ve witnessed two goals-of-the-week candidates in successive matches for van Persie, who continues to justify his expensive price tag and Sir Alex’s acumen.

Where would United be without the Dutchman? Shudder the thought.

Now we move on, needing the Rio-Vidic partnership to gain form, the midfield to keep possession and pressure the ball better on the flanks, and up the tempo out wide to break down opponents.

So, would United’s historic difficulty with Southampton rear its ugly head or would the Saints look like a side promoted one division too far?

Little did we know the football Gods would agree with both sides of the supposition.

How fitting it is that the United players should thank their manager with a typical, come-from-behind victory, that a quintessential trait of his clubs: never giving up, believing, and scoring late on for what seems like the thousandth time to secure another improbable and vital victory.

We all adore Sir Alex Ferguson.

And that Robin van Persie chap isn’t so bad himself.

United Fall Fulham 3-2

The starting eleven sees Rooney and Welbeck on the bench, with Nani dropped altogether, and Robin van Persie making his first start for United. Ferguson demonstrates his meritocracy in full measure.

All I’ve got to say is thank God.

The match didn’t start well, with Carrickbauer, as his teammates tease, giving up a free kick just outside the box to betray his new moniker. Set piece along the floor to Dunn from ten yards and it’s 1-0, with Ashley Young getting picked to leave the Irishman WIDE open.

Old Trafford went from season-opening good cheer to tensely quite in a flash. And then, up steps a certain Dutchman.

Evra’s innocuous cross short-hops van Persie, who hits a sublime volley from twelve yards and we’re level. Just. Like. That.

Afterwards, United upped the tempo and played like you’d expect, with possession and a 3-1 half time lead thanks to a tap-in from Kagawa and far-post header from, yes indeed, the thumb-sucking celebrant, Rafael.

The party mood left everyone feeling like that match’s in the bag, with a two-goal lead and lop-sided possession. Valencia looked like his brilliant self on the right, with Rafael overlapping wonderfully, a real pick your poison dilemma for Fulham.

Sir Alex’s men kept up the tempo and worked the ball wide for a few excellent chances in the first 18 minutes of the second half.

And just like that, up steps sloppy United.

From nothing, a routine long ball cross leads to a keystone cops moment, a needless own-goal from Vidic, as he collides with De Gea and a Fulham forward, the ball bounces off the Captain's heal, everyone falls and the ball crawls into the net. Game on.

Now we move from a potential thrashing to a competitive match, as I delete the blog title “United Flatten Fulham” from my memory.

Again, we’ve witnessed the sense of impending drama descend upon Old Trafford. Thankfully, United held on for the first victory of the season.

Given SAF’s age and likely near-term succession in about 2-3 years, I keep analyzing this club against the bar of winning the Premier League and being much, much more competitive in the Champions League.

That’s the lens through which I’ve been viewing the performances thus far.

With that said, the squad still looks as thought it could use another couple of weeks of pre-season fixtures, with the injuries, new players, and poor form in stretches thus far.

It’s still VERY early days, but here’s what causes concerns after two matches.

First, let’s start with the deeper lying, center of the park, where Anderson’s still a shadow of even his first year and Cleverly shows ring-rust from hardly playing much of last term. The other primary options, as we all know, include the evergreen two-some and Carrick.

Far too frequently United were outmuscled off the ball and lack a certain ball winning bite – I know, I know – since Keane left. You can just see glimpses of Cleverly coming good, with his ability to cover space, quick darts forward and penchant for turning players. He doesn’t worry us, as his best form will come back, but Anderson does concern the faithful.

As a youth, Anderson appeared as a bright part of United’s future. His bite, tenacity, pit-bull ball strength, and ability to cover the ball caused a certain glint in Ferguson’s eye. Everything appeared set with Anderson and Hargreaves.

Looks can be deceiving, as the Red Devils still miss tenacious cover in front of the back four. It’s anything-but-certain Anderson will realize his potential, as the rumors around his departure will continue unless form returns.

Second, Sir Alex must be baffled with his defense, as it seems some dubious demon controls a kill switch to the collective brains in the defensive third, selecting the most inopportune times to reek havoc on this ground.

The own-goal aside, we’ve witnessed Rafael getting caught in possession or beaten unnecessarily, a continued failure to cover short corners, poor clearances, or marks getting picked to allow an easy opportunities. Both Cottager goals involved poor concentration and communication.

THIS is precisely what cost United the title and must infuriate gaffer, as at times the Reds look as solid as a rock, then boom: brains off. How do you coach that? We'll see.

Last, the club’s strength lies in attack, with RVP and Kagawa added, it’s a real embarrassment of riches when Berba’s relegated to Carling Cup matches.

However, this apparent potency is not certain, on the contrary, there are two possible problems involving egos and playing time.

You could easily argue that the 1999 squad had a rare combination up front, as both Sheringham and Solskjaer kept brilliant form almost regardless of playing time, the rarest of traits from strikers.

Currently, Chicharito seems like the only true candidate for super-sub, but one look at his face on the bench these days indicates otherwise.

Hernandez needs some consistent starts to empower his super-sub role, as his form dipped in correlation to Welbeck’s increased playing time would indicate.  Add Kagawa along with RVP and Chicharito seems destined to a Berba role up front. All other forwards, plus Kagawa, need minutes primarily at only two positions.

Which leads to my final thoughts about egos and chemistry.

When Rooney came in, he immediately pointed to van Persie that it was HE who would lead the front line, assuredly with Sir Alex’s blessing, with some added body language emphasis. Hmmm...

Although we didn’t see much Wazza, he still seemed labored until he left the match in injury time on a stretcher with a nasty gash above his right knee. With his fitness/from already in question, this is the last thing United need at the moment.

Or, is it?

Maybe 3-4 weeks out could provide the ideal window to help van Persie and Kagawa gel with the squad, without the distraction of the number ten.

But, how do you think Rooney would deal with a United succeeding without him? How would he deal with RVP overshadowing him?

We will always remember Rooney’s flirtations with life beyond Old Trafford. Would he try to pull the ripcord again, if things don’t go his way?

We will also wonder if Wazza will keep in immaculate shape like Giggs or Scholes as he ages, given his holiday celebrations with Gibson last term. 

Getting RVP might just be the ideal tonic to motivate Wayne or it could simply beget more frustration leading to England-Rooney showing up more consistently in a United shirt. Only time will tell.

As always, we trust alchemist Alex’s superb man-management skills, especially this term with two 30-goal scorers vying to lead the line. 

But now, we also need Fergie’s master electrician skills to finally disable that infuriating kill switch, especially with Europe looming in the not-too-distant future. Otherwise, it won't be pretty yet again.

Edgeless United Fall

Where do you start after this performance?

Surly for the neutral observer, the match was well worth the time invested. Fast. Hard-fought. Intense. And, that’s just in the Gwladys Street Stand stand.

[Queue rim shot]

Ah, but serious folks, this blog, like you dear reader, are a United fan, eager as ever to start the season with a new, fresh start to the looonng campaign.

New faces couple new expectations. It’s been waaaay too long. Game on.

So, why does this loss feel like last April or early May?

Maybe it’s because Red Devils lacked sharpness around goal. Maybe it’s because key central halves were injured and defense creaked. Maybe it’s because United carry a big target on their back at every away ground, as fans delight in Red’s misery.

At first blush, the match wouldn’t seem like a groundhog day remake, with United’s 4-3-3 formation provided some cover for the Carrick-Valencia partnership along the right defense, as it allowed Scholes and Cleverly to take turns pushing forward, play compact in front of the back four, and allow the wingers to fall back, as needed, should United loose possession.

The starting eleven correctly matched the weaknesses as well as strengths of the situation, plus the added delight of watching Kagawa, Cleverly, and Scholes play combinations together.

So, why do we get sooo much prancing around the top of the box and such predictable wing play?

Yes, you’ve simply got to love the technical skill of Rooney, Nani, Kagawa, Cleverly, and Scholes playing short, one-touch possession football. Yes, United did get players wide for crossing. Yes, there were some chances.

However, the fullback overlaps and overall team crossing were hugely ineffective, as United sorely missed the in-form Valencia tormenting opponents down the right wing, with both starters, Welbeck and Nani playing poorly.

Couple these factors with a slow, heavy-touch Rooney and it’s abundantly clear how the Toffees won the match. One match report noted that United fans, not Blues, booed the number ten for his wastefulness as the match wore on. Imagine that at Goodison Park.

Oh, but the worst player of the match goes to Nani.

Nani was Nani, a player that can be unstoppable, but the operative word there is “can”.  When Nani’s off, he’s way off, as viewed by his petulance toward the linesman in the 2^nd minute and soon-to-follow yellow card. He seems to compound his errors until Fergie has no choice but to sub him. Seriously, how can you take that many bad corners for the love of all things United? (The MOTM, btw, was Kagawa. Bright. Creative. Sure in possession. Brilliant runs off the ball.)

Ah, but I digress. These are the earliest of days.

The tone of this post would be entirely different, had the Reds simply put two chances away. But they didn’t.

Now comes the short bus ride home for Fergie’s men knowing that they did indeed create some nice combination play and made few opportunities, but yet deep down inside, they were outplayed, as Everton simply wanted the match more.

In the US, the American “Monday Night Football” used to start with Hank Williams, Jr. shouting at the camera, “Are you ready for some football?!!” before breaking into rowdy song.

Ready?

Yes, indeed.

Are you ready for this?

No, not really. But, then again, I’m never ready to watch two midfielders play across the backline.

Five Clear, Four Remain

The juicy prospect of claiming the league crown before kickoff against City, with full honor guard action mind you, evaporated in the loss to Wigan.

Should the Blues fail at Wolves and United beat Everton, the Red Devils could collect number twenty at the City of Manchester Stadium in two weeks time. But that’s highly unlikely, given Wolves’ horrible form. Seems a long-shot prayer at best.

Which leads to commentary about the 4-0 victory over Villa.

Never should such a score line leave any supporter upset. Most EPL sides can only dream of netting four, let alone accomplishing the task while not firing on all cylinders. But such is the gulf in class between top and bottom of this league.

For a second straight match, something seems a bit labored, a bit off at the moment. Don’t get me wrong, three points are all that matter now, but there’s a noticeable dip in form of some key players.

Rooney’s touch and passing have deserted this past week, despite his two goals this afternoon. His confidence seems to have suffered from his lack of control as well.

Players misread each other’s intentions. Everything stays on the periphery. The cutting edge appears more difficult to conjure up. It’s as though United don’t trust their passing or control to play more balls to forward’s feet or turn on their man.

We miss those intricate touches and turns from everyone not names Scholes as well as scintillating play from both flanks that were so devastating earlier this term.

Ah, but we’re five points clear with four to play – that’s all that matters now.

Everton comes to Old Trafford off their bitter loss in the FA Cup Semis to Liverpool. Will Moyes’ men suffer a hangover or prove a stern opponent?

One suspects the latter given the gaffer’s track record.

United look in need of a week to train, rest, and recuperate their best form. We’re almost there, lads. Keep you nerve. This season may become Sir Alex’s crowning achievement, given the injury onslaught and squad turnover.

Can’t think of a better script ending than for either Scholes or Giggs to put United through to number twenty with the decisive goal on the City of Manchester Stadium. Champ20ns indeed.

Eight Points Clear, Eighth Strait Victory

After Shaun Derry goes off in the 13th minute and Rooney converts the penalty, bookies readjust their in-game odds for the final score. A real hammering seems likely.

However, 20 minutes into second half, the Red Devils remain ahead by a nervy 1-0 score line.

Anything can happen only up by a goal, we all know, as refereeing karma seems destined to go against United soon, given the Carrick’s challenge against Murphy and the off-side, red-card foul given today.

And guess who unlocks the defense?

He scores goals indeed. A siege squandered becomes a comfortable 2-0 victory in the end.

How often in the past three years have the evergreen twosome provided United’s get-out-of-jail-free card?

Quite often, thank you very much, which speaks volumes about the players and Sir Alex Ferguson, who had the foresight to keep both players around as long as possible.

Moving away from the obvious praise for United’s possession and ultimate outcome, for me, the talking points are twofold: a predictable attack and horrible officiating.

United’s attach hath become too one-dimensional these past few games. Certainly, you want to involve Valencia as much as possible, but now opponent’s double- and occasionally triple-team Antonio much more effectively.

Both relegation strugglers demonstrated that for large stretches inferior teams can sit back and defend against United, even against very gaudy 75/25 possession, while hoping for the draw or a smash-and-grab job.

The Reds need to mix it up, for the love of God, and play early balls to forwards making runs off center halves’ shoulders, occasionally try to beat their man straight up, and take more shots from distance, if that’s what’s given.

Yes, use width by all means, but don’t ONLY use width and don’t ONLY go right.

United are almost in danger of standing around and waiting for Valencia to do something spectacular, much like the criticism during the Ronaldo.

The Red’s lateral passing outside and around the edge nullified the extra player advantage. QPR simply kept everyone in front of them and marked-up. The compact tortoise-shell defense worked brilliantly much of the afternoon, much to Red Devil angst.

Did you notice that as soon as Giggs came on – bless his heart – he starting hitting direct balls over the top to Welbeck to mix things up? It’s typically-brilliant Giggsy, as he provides a what’s missing straight away from the bench.

Lately, United seemed to emulate Arsenal’s fatal flaw, over-relying on passing the ball into the net, as cries of “Shoot!” echoed from the Stretford End too many times to count. Finally, Scholes obliged and the Old Trafford faithful head home with three points.

What would have happened if the linesman hadn’t fallen asleep or if Lee Mason kept his red card in his pocket?

We’ll never know.

The old adage that players win games, managers loose them, and referees ruin them certainly held today. Lee Mason killed this match on top of dreadful decisions at Stamford Bridge yesterday.

Predictably, all attention will fall upon a linesman and referee for the second day running for horrible mistakes. It’s a pity because Sir Alex’s men deserve praise, not derisive comments about poor calls at Old Trafford.

THE talking point should be how United have gone eight points clear after winning their eighth straight game in just over a month. Remarkable stuff from arguably the best-managed team in football this past quarter-century. We’re all blessed to follow United.

United Waste Wolves 5-0

When Jonny Evans scores his first goal in 119 games, that doesn’t bode well for the opposition, as the football gods must be smiling down upon United. Or, perhaps it was leftover St. Patrick’s Day fortune for the lad. Regardless, it spelt doom for Wolves.

There’s really very little energy over here to blog about this match, such was the comfortable how-hum nature of the proceedings.

Thus, you get the easiest of formats here: the top five reactions to the match.

First off, how incredibly stupid was Ronald Zubar’s tackle on Welbeck?

Daft beyond all recognition, as you put your side down to ten men with over 60 minutes of football against the reigning champions in the midst of a relegation battle. Can you say gaffer’s doghouse?

I get wanting to close down the forward, but if your timing’s off along the touchline, that type of challenge gets booked nine out of ten times, with the winger taken down and acres of space behind the play.

Second, despite the comfortable score line, it seemed like there were more goals to be had by Sir Alex’s men.

Certainly, Thursday’s match and travel took some sharpness off the effort and it’s an excellent result, but Wolves were soooo poor for much of the match. This easily could have been 6, 7, or 8 to the good.

Behind closed doors Fergie might have a sharp word or two with the squad regarding their at-times flippant passing and possession. Goal differential matters and United didn’t take full advantage of a severely wounded side here.

Third, United employed the correct formation today, with Chicharito up top, Rooney in the hole, Welbeck drifting all over the place from the left, and Valencia playing textbook right wing.

Valencia and Chicharito, in their own ways, push defenses and create ample space for Rooney, Welbeck, and Carrick to create havoc. The pressure felt on Wolves’ left flank because Valencia beat Ward repeatedly caused the usual domino effect in mismarking everybody else. Which leads me to the next point.

Fourth, welcome back Antonio Valencia!

Since the New Year, he’s been the Red Devils most consistent catalyst going forward, getting around the edge and supplying excellent service to the front line. His pace and strength creates serious problems for opponent’s left backs, which has defenses paying lop-sided attention to his flank.

His goal was simply superb, as he broke the length of the pitch, gathered Rooney’s ball over the top, and raced to goal with delightful finish one-to-one against the keeper – a brilliant, counter-attacking surge. Valencia’s definitely deserving of everyone’s Man of the Match.

And finally, I reserve my MOTM honors for the man who broke his duck and opened up United’s account off a corner in the 21st minute: Jonny Evans. Today’s award is as much about the body of work in 2012 as his usual, solid effort today.

Evans did his job with his now-usual assuredness, a trait we didn’t think we’d witness after his horrible red card against City. In fact, many advocated selling the player in the January transfer window. Thankfully, Sir Alex knows better.

It takes time and patience to develop good, young center halves, something we’re all too intimately aware of in light of United’s failings in Europe.

Thus, we salute the bit of luck due a certain Northern Irishman, one who has earned our praise and recognition for his effort and improvement this campaign. Jonny, you’ve had as much to do with United’s ascent to the top as anyone in the starting eleven. Cheers to you on your first goal and a job well done.

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Also, our thoughts and prayers go out to Fabrice Muamba, his family, and Bolton Wanderers. Be well son.

Top of the Table to You

The murmuring around Old Trafford provided a strange buzz that required no explanation: City just fell behind late. The predictable singing aimed at the Blues rolled around the ground.

United sit on top, one point over City, with ten games left after United’s 2-0 defeat of West Brom and City’s 1-0 loss at Swansea.

This lead looms large, as Red Devils also possess an easier run-in, with the Middle Eastlands needing to play Chelsea, Arsenal, as well as United. Sir Alex’s side could sit four points clear before the Blues kickoff next weekend, piling pressure on his Italian counterpart.

And it's beginning to show.

Mancini played the role of devastated manager, in a very Wenger-like performance, mystified by the result, unnerved, and seemingly unable to conjure up anything to help his side move forward.

Contrast the City gaffer to Fergie’s focused attention in his post-match comments, including, at no extra charge, free translations from Sir Alex Ferguson’s The Art of War, Premiership Edition:

"The City defeat was a bonus I didn't expect (A horrible blunder; how could you loose THAT game?!) but I am happy to be top (as in you can’t handle it) because only a few weeks ago we were seven points behind them (United’s brilliant ascendency; the Blues’ massive collapse).

"That is credit to the players and the resilience of the squad (against all odds) because as everyone knows, we have had a lot of injuries (If you can’t stay ahead of us when we’re injured, you stand no chance now, as we approach fitness.).''

The media portray Roberto Mancini as a tactician, one who is a bit aloof from his players, which doesn’t bode well for the title run-in.

Teams in City’s position need to reframe the media conversations around the side, with comments like “We’re disappointed with the result today, but there’s still over a quarter of the season to play. It’s a long race that will go to the wire. We accept that. Yet, we play United at home and view that as a major advantage. We like our chances.”

Nothing of the kind will come from this cool Italian. So, if the manager won’t lift City, who will?

Some suggest it could be Carlos Tevez.

THAT man from Argentina doesn’t deserve a second chance, with Carlito’s Way difficult for all to comprehend, as he’s brilliantly determined striker, one capable of carrying a team for a spell.

On the other hand, as we’ve witnessed, he’s unprofessional, petty, and childish to the extreme – a high-risk, high-reward gamble that can turn cancerous. Oh, and what added pressure Tevez’ return could place on Mancini, who once stated he’d never again play for the club.

We all know in life, until you’ve accomplished something, it is human nature to doubt, if only on occasion, until you finally accomplish a penultimate goal as difficult as winning the Premier League.

World-class footballers possess a rare confidence, a sheer force of will it takes to beat incredible odds to reach the pinnacle of the beautiful game. One blog writer smack-dab in the middle of North America is no expert about sports psychology, without question.

Yet, it doesn’t take any education or experience to see what’s transpiring absolutely naked right in front of us, in the gobsmacked expression on Mancini’s fate in Cardiff. Just look at the man.

Roberto will face countless questions about the Blue’s title credentials from now until season’s end, with any missteps, any miscalculated tactics – like playing two holding midfielders and taking off Silva early today, hint-hint – drawing major scrutiny. The questions and pressure take their toll.

Sir Alex will exploit this to no end, assuredly, as that’s the luxury that comes from winning the Premier League twelve times. People don’t doubt United.

We’ve witnessed this film before. We know the story. We love how it ends.

Clinical United Best Spurs and Chelsea Implodes

What must old ‘Arry be thinking now?

Concede eight goals in four halves of football. England. Dominate possession and lose to United yet again. England. What must we do to get a break? England.

You get the picture.

The Tottenham defense looked as distracted as the man most likely to lead Inger-Land into the European Championships. Spurs are in real trouble.

Ah, but must we focus so much attention on the side from North London, when the Red Devils dispatched Spurs with the customary aplomb.

These massive three points were overshadowed by events elsewhere this weekend, with a resurgent Arsenal, Andre Villas-Boas sacked, and a possible return of the Special One to the Premiership.

Thus, here’s a Cliff’s Notes analysis of United’s performance before moving on to the misery at Chelsea.

Solid job all around for United’s back five, especially Jonny Evans, who played flawlessly all afternoon and is a worthy MOTM candidate. Rio was massive as well.

Both Scholes and Giggs looked their age and United’s midfield being outplayed much of this match, while failing to keep possession comfortably until being up 3-0.

De Gea made some excellent saves early on to keep the score line nil-nil.

Rooney looked out-of-form, yet put United into the lead just before half time thanks to a pacy, pernicious corner from Ashley Young, our Man of the Match, who netted two himself, including a Goal of the Week postage stamp to emphatically kill off this match.

Young took up Valencia’s mantle just in time and on his own terms, mostly through his whipped service and ability to drift into pockets of space versus continuing to press the edge like Antonio.

The timing of Young’s excellence couldn’t be better for Sir Alex leading into the two months and change in the season.

Elsewhere in England, much focus is on the downward spiral of Chelsea, as AVB becomes the fifth manager sacked since the departure of the Special One.

And, who didn’t see this one coming million miles away?

When Andre Villas-Boas said he didn’t need the support of the locker room, as long as he had the owner’s backing, everybody knew his days were numbered, which culminated in a club statement that tried fruitlessly to thank the now-former manager:

“Andre Villas-Boas has parted company (kicked out) with Chelsea FC today. The Board would like to record our gratitude (hurl, barf, choke) for his work (crazy, highline football with an old squad) and express our disappointment (cha-ching) that the relationship has ended so early…

“Unfortunately the results and the performances of the team have not been good enough (5th place) and were showing no signs of improving at a key time (lost Champions League) in the season.”

Chelsea age gracelessly much to Red Devil delight.

C’mon, can you ever imagine Terry and Lampard accepting similar roles to those of Giggs or Scholes? (I know, I know – let’s just assume their bodies would hold up.)

Never.

Both players’ massive egos, if anything, appear to inflate over time, which doesn’t match their diminishing pace and production on the pitch.

Which speaks to everything that’s wrong with Stamford Bridge outfit the moment.

Chelsea’s dressing room has a habit of getting managers fired prematurely, as Ferguson hath reminded us on many an occasion, no one player – eh, Beckham – can get bigger than the manager nor the club. Never. All is lost otherwise.

Indeed, another title campaign’s gone, and quite possibly, a Champions League spot may be lost on an expensive, aging side with the advent of financial fair play just around the corner – the precise moment Chelsea can least afford to take a hit to revenue. Oh, the deliciously irony.

As we witness the predictable implosion of a billionaire owner’s plaything, thanks to his own meddling nonetheless, we appreciate newly the meaning of “schadenfreude.”

Giggs Tears Norwich City Apart

Game 900 is ho-hum affair for United and Giggsy. It’s another run of the mill injury time goal. You knew it’d come, right?

Please.

Some surreal scriptwriter absolutely loves this evergreen twosome. And who wouldn’t, with both players simply oozing class, composure and consistency.

First, it’s quintessential Scholes, who pops up in the box for the millionth time to open United’s account in the 7th minute. At that point, the match seemed like a comfortable walk in the park.

Oh no, that would be contrary to the story and would ruin the fairy tale ending.

You just knew the Canaries would score, given their track record and form, as they created several excellent chances only to be thwarted by a sensational David De Gea, who would have been the MOTM had the score line remained 1-0 United.

From the neutral’s perspective, however, Norwich’s just desserts came in the 83rd minute where Grant Holt delivered the inevitable, a top-class, late goal as they’ve done repeatedly this year.

Now, Sir Alex’s side up the tempo right on command, as we buckle-up for the final seven minutes, plus injury time, of high drama.

After Welbeck missed his wide-open header, you suspected this was the work of the football gods, as if they said, “No, no, son – it’s not your turn” kind of divine intervention.

Then, at full crescendo in our building operatic performance, in the second minute of injury time comes Sir – hint, hint – Ryan Giggs tucking home Young’s marvelous far-post ball with the outside of that magical left boot.

It’s game, set, and match right in front of 1,500 delirious away supporters.

You simply can’t make this stuff up.

How gut-wrenching it must be for both City sides, Norwich and Manchester, to witness this seemingly hidden gear deliver another massive three points

How lucky are we to support United and witness Giggs’ mastery?

Immeasurably fortunate, without question, is the obvious reply.

In hindsight, could this match have ended any other way than for the best ever Premier League player to crown his illustrious career with another match-winning jewel?

Indeed, Giggs will tear you apart again.

Reactions to United’s Victory Over Childish Pool

Well, it’s unfortunate that 90 minutes of excellent Red Devil football will be overshadowed by antics and theatrics before, at half, and after the match – this, our first talking point.

Beforehand, you knew the pantomime villain would be Suarez, without question at Old Trafford, much like Evra at Anfield in weeks prior. You absolutely anticipated that United supporters would give abuse right on queue singing “We know what you are” at the little number seven.

What we didn’t know is that Suarez’ petulance would start before kickoff, as he refused to shake Evra’s hand.

Really? How incredibly stupid are you?

All you had to do is shake hands, not get sent off, and this chapter would be behind you. Now, you’re back on the FA’s radar, and since you’re the only forward that can score for Liverpool, you threaten your club’s chances at holding the seventh spot.

Afterwards, the drama, predictably, continued in the media.

First, an incredulous Sir Alex winds things up:

"I could not believe it, I just could not believe it. He's a disgrace to Liverpool Football Club, that certain player should not be allowed to play for Liverpool again.

“The history that club's got and he does that and in a situation like today could have caused a riot. I was really disappointed in that guy, it was terrible what he did.”

"It created a tension, you've seen the referee didn't know what to do about it. It caught him off guard. It was a terrible start to the game, a terrible atmosphere it created."

Next up, the comical Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish responded: "I think you're bang out of order to blame Luis Suarez for anything that happened here today."

Really? What color is the sky in your world, Cliff? (As in Cliff Clavin from “Cheers”, for the sit-com challenged.)

What’s next, K-k-ken? Are you going to tell us “It's a little known fact that the tan became popular in what is known as the Bronze Age”?

Please.

What we do know is THE feud continues, with Suarez, and Evra, thanks to excessive celebrating, face some possible disciplinary action.

Ah, let’s rest the obvious talking point and return to the REAL stuff: the play on the pitch.

Rarely in this blog do I ever compliment a referee, but today’s one of those days. Phil Dowd did a brilliant job of keeping his cards in his pocket and keeping composure, choosing to talk to players and slow the match at appropriate spots to clam matters.

Once again, we could have witnessed an entirely different result had Dowd gotten wrong Ferdinand’s tackle on Suarez. It’s either clean or a red-card-foul. Rio got it right, an immaculate tackle, but we all know what happened on this ground before – dare I say against a certain match against the barcodes. We do not take proper calls for granted, with the speed of these matches.

It’s no coincidence, then, that things boiled over outside of match minutes but remained relatively restrained within the confines of this massive derby match.

Well done, Dowd.

Next, United’s defence deserves accolades, but still, that unease continues to linger on, after conceding in the 80th minute off another mistake from nothing.

The score did not reflect the run of play and excellent job of defending done by all, and in particular, the two center halves, Rio and Evans, both of whom took turns marking Suarez tightly even when he tracked back for the ball, and later, manned up impressively against both forwards.

Ultimately, though, United faced a nervy final ten minutes after conceding a goal off a set-piece mistake. Once again, this side bossed large stretches of the match and one mistake brought another beaten side back into a match.

It’s one thing to get beaten by excellent play; it’s another to gift goals off mistakes. United’s nervy knees continue to reappear amidst good overall play. This trend is definitely not over, not by a long shot.

Moving on, once again Valencia proved lethal in attacking an opponent, as his white-hot form continues.

So good is Antonio that Fergie confidently placed Giggs wide-left, knowing that the evergreen winger wouldn’t always cover the touch line and would track central much of the afternoon – making it abundantly clear United would focus on the right.

But, it didn’t matter.

Valencia beat Enrique frequently one-to-one, as Liverpool learned quickly to double-team every time Antonio got the ball. Valencia made Stuart Downing look pedestrian, as the number nineteen clearly didn’t feel like defending that deep, that often, which muted his threat going forward for Pool.

It’s another brilliant job by United’s number twenty-five in his attempt at a second consecutive Player of the Month campaign.

And finally, my Man of the Match, Wayne Rooney, who had only scored two goals from nineteen previous matches against his archenemy prior to kickoff, doubled his total in less than 45 minutes of football.

Wazza was brilliant in the hole, as he converted two of three guilt-edged chances, adding the clinical edge for United. Surprisingly, his easiest chance caught him off-guard – so good was Scholes’ dummy that Roo’s first touch was equally as poor as his toe-poke wide from close range. Should have been a hattrick, really, but regardless, he’s finally broken his own personal duck of sorts against the wrong half of Merseyside.

When Fergie wondered out loud how United lost to Liverpool in the FA Cup, the obvious answer was a lack of a finishing touch, with Wazza missing of course. Clearly Rooney’s brings the necessary sharpness to United’s chances around goal.

Mark my words: Rooney looks poised to return to his blistering form, much like what we witnessed prior to last year, especially with the return of a healthy Tom Cleverley, who’s apparently built a telekinetic connection with Welbeck on the training ground these past few weeks.

We all remember Cleverley turning the corner on his mark, making quick-and-decisive touch passes to open up opponents. He’s exactly the type of dimension United need in the center of the park, which also provides the gaffer with a bonus opportunity to rest Giggs and Scholes more with a crowded fixture list ahead.

Thus, as we move on, we know the drama will continue between these clubs, with Dalglish, claiming to have seen “nuth-ing, nuutthhh-ing!!!” in his best Sargent Schultz impression.

Certainly, the FA did see something, while we all await their verdict.

Five Reactions to United’s Stamford Bridge Comeback

How many talking points can you have from one match?

Certainly this tilt deserves more than the customary number – if only there were enough time to complete it. Thus, here are my top five reactions to the match.

First, there’s great relief in Sir Alex’s men coming back from 3-0 for a 3-3 draw. It’s the sort of epic comeback you’ll remember for decades.

Yet, for the second straight “big” match, including the Pool FA Cup defeat as the other, United controlled play, seemed the better side, and yet poor defending at inopportune moments led to disappointment.

If Fergie wondered “How’d we lose that one?” after Anfield, he must be thinking “How in the world were we down by three?” in the 50th minute.

That’s a great question indeed.

One could argue that United is spoiled, with the Rio and Vidic partnership and Van Der Sar in the nets in our recent past. Our comparison comes from a very high bar, admittedly.

Yet, the game film will highlight how the Blues scored their goals off poor defending, with Sturridge getting around Evra when he’s got inside help, Mata sitting wide freakin’ open, and Sideshow Bob getting ahead of Rio on a set piece. This must improve to win the title.

Second, how does Gary Cahill stay on the park after taking down Welbeck as the last man?

The answer: it’s too early for Webb or the linesman to make that call at Stamford Bridge, given a red card would certainly accompany the penalty. I wholeheartedly disagree with this prevailing tendency, but it’s the reality of how matches like this are refereed in England. We move on.

Third, Chelsea supporters at the pub claimed MOTM honors for Howard Webb for both second half penalties given to United.

Fair enough. On the day it’s very rare indeed that you’re awarded both spot kicks, yet the Red Devils had four decent claims during the match in total. From that perspective and the Cahill-non-call, the two don’t look nearly as egregious. Thus, both are justified in my book.

Fourth, De Gea’s save late-on demonstrate why United have so much belief in the lad. This stop will rank right up there with the top saves of the season. (BTW, did anyone else have a flashback to Barthez at Anfield from season’s past?) Absolutely incredible, as that ball was going in. It’s truly a save that gained the Reds a vital point.

Finally, THE single most important talking point is the manner in which this side kept composure, maintained focus, and demonstrated that incredible spirit we’ve all come to expect from a Ferguson managed side.

The timing and play of the substitutions were spot-on, as Chicharito’s pace changed the match immediately in the 53rd minute, as the Mexican’s constant movement created loads of space in his backwash. This allowed Rooney, Carrick, Giggs, and eventually, Scholes to boss possession. Always remember the rule: Never, ever count out a Sir Alex Ferguson side.

Thus, as we look forward and see several key players return from injury, there’s never a question about United’s heart and desire going forward. The goals will come and attacking play will improve.

Our only question is can this club defend well enough to win the gaffer another one?
That one remains to be seen.

Five Reactions to United’s Victory over Stoke

Who knew it’d be this easy to beat the side sitting eighth in the Premier League?

On a night were United draw level once again with the Middle Eastlands, there’s so much to relish in this abbreviated blog post. Let’s get straight to the goods.

First, father time was brilliant once again in the heart of the Red Devil midfield. What else can you write about the ginger haired half of the evergreen tag-team? Scholes once again absolutely controlled the park along with Carrick. He’s utterly brilliant, United’s new number twenty-two. Now we know why Fergie hasn’t forayed into the transfer market for a central midfielder.

Second, is anyone playing better than Antonio Valencia in the entire Premier League? I’d be shocked if Tony didn’t take home the “Player of the Month” hardware for January. He simply plays a very good, very old-fashioned winger incredibly well. Where would United be without this lad this term? Not top of the league, that’s for sure.

It’ll get real interesting to see Nani, Young, and Park complete for time on the left wing, as the Ecuadorian simply must be the first name Fergie puts on the team sheet these days.

Third, knowing full well I’m repeating the repetitive commentary from our ESPN analysts… Just how bad were Stoke today? You thought they’d be a real handful with their bruising, route one footy, but instead chose to play timid, scared, and lethargic.

United were quite good, but made to look even better by seriously inferior competition, at least on this day. Seriously, how do you reach full time with a 75/25-possession differential? One word: hung-over.

Fourth, yes, yes – we’ve had a Paul Pogba sighting. Given that Ravel Morrison was sold at the deadline to West Ham, our added attention falls on the French youngster, who didn’t disappoint in his seventeen-odd minutes on the pitch. The game didn’t appear too quick for him, as he made a few nifty moves to create space in tight quarters. Hopefully this is just the beginning of a long, accomplished United career.

Fifth, there truly is only one Darron Gibson. On a night where the largest sustained buzz of electricity at Old Trafford came from Mr. 007 himself, as his goal propelled Everton to knock off City 1-0 at Goodison Park, much to every Red Devil’s delight.

How ironic, then, to see the amused glee on the faces of the United faithful as they sang homage to the man they kicked off Twitter in a total of five hours. Thus, it’s only fitting that we pay special thanks to tonight’s Man of the Match, one wearing Toffee Blue, Mr. Darron Gibson.

United’s Wasted Effort at Anfield

How can such a good performance get wasted so easily, so quickly?

Easy: indecisive play defending corners and ball watching on a punt downfield in the final minutes of the match.

How many times have we witnessed United defenders switch off on the most basic elements of defending?

Way, way too many times this term, that’s for sure.

Before kickoff, you could almost excuse the Red Devils for not getting a result at Anfield, with the mounting injury problems and the aging midfield. No Anderson, Cleverley, Rooney, Jones, Nani, and the list mounts. You’d worry about United’s aging midfield being able to cover enough ground on this day.

Yet, the midfield of Carrick, Giggs, and Scholes were brilliant – they bossed large portions of the match, one where United deserved a result. Scholesy in particular was marvelous, dictating possession like a master conductor.

And the effort was wasted once again.

What is it about cup competitions with this squad and defending?

So many questions and so few the answers right now.

There will be much talk about De Gea’s performance in goal, with Sir Alex placing the Spaniard between the pipes on the ground where he had arguably his best performance earlier in the season.

But, the gamble backfired, and if anything, brought back more questions about his confidence. United’s keeper didn’t loose the match, but his play unsettled the backline and rewarded Liverpool’s aerial assaults.

You really didn’t see Pool scoring from anything outside a set piece or an obvious gift, such as the pen-ultimate goal. Sir Alex has a full-blown keeper controversy on his hands now, with the relative assurance of Lindegaard and deer-in-the-headlights De Gea.

Quickly, I’d be remiss if I didn’t highlight the wonderful performances today. Sure, Giggs and Carrick played well, but United’s best three players were Park, Valencia, and Scholes.

Valencia’s play is old news, as his prototypical wing play caused its usual menace in this match. Liverpool had no answer for him, at least during the first half. He’s been United’s Man of the Month thus far.

Scholes was absolutely magnificent, as he made United look like Barcelona in possession during this match. So cool and assured, United’s new number twenty-two – it highlights exactly what the Reds have missed in central midfield this term. (I still argue that United are 1-2 world class, central midfielders away from being exactly returning to dominate form.)

Today’s improvised line-up demonstrates precisely what’s possible with a maestro dictating tempo and a gaudy 57% possession stat the result.

And finally, we return our attention to Park, who netted United’s only goal.

Sir Alex asks his number thirteen to play so many roles and he does so with great energy, versatility, and drive. It’s no accident that Park scores on the biggest of stages, as he’s upped his play to match his manager’s belief.

At times, he can be frustrating when he gets outmuscled off the ball, but that’s a fine price to play for his ubiquitous presence on the pitch. The lad’s ability to pop-up in the box unmarked while tracking loads of land defending deserves special merit. He was simply brilliant today, as Fergie asked him to play a vital role in United’s attack and he did so with his usual energy and aplomb.

The only positive – and a stretch at that – is that United have fewer fixtures on the docket now to allow the injured time to heal and get match fit for the rest of the campaign.

It was a big ask of the current squad to knock off City and Pool away in successive fixtures in the FA Cup.

It’s all the more tragic because Ferguson’s men played well enough to pull of this improbable double, only to leave Anfield ruing a wasted this effort.

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Back at you after the Stoke match. Cheers.

United’s Historic Victory Over Arsenal

Today marks the first live EPL match shown on major network TV in the US, a remarkable development and one that recognizes the growing popularity of the beautiful game, particularly the Premier League, in the States.

Today also may signal the end for one of the most successful managers in the EPL history, as Arsene Wenger’s outdueled by Sir Alex yet again and the pressure mounts in North London.

But before analyzing this match, let me digress about Fox Sports for a moment.

On this lovely day, where you don’t need an expensive cable TV package to watch live football from England, the brain wizards at Fox decide to turn the game’s build-up into NFL-light, with a ridiculous voice-over more fitting for a pre-programmed, classic rock station than a footy match. Even my wife, a non-sporting-type, found the build-up comical in the extreme.

Next, why is Piers Morgan replacing Warren Barton in the commentary chair?

Just because he’s got better name recognition in the US doesn’t merit his inclusion on this set, as he’s a hyper-biased Gunner season ticket holder who whines incessantly about his beloved (?!) club, especially his lobbying for Wenger to get sacked. Not exactly the contribution you’re looking for to grow your audience in this hemisphere.

Yet, as much as it pains me to write this, I totally agree with the former head of Hackers of the – err, excuse me – NEWS of the World.

Wenger’s substitution of Oxlade-Chamberlain – arguably Arsenal’s best player – for Arshavin proved the biggest tactical blunder of the match, with Valencia blowing by the half-hearted Russian to create United’s game-winning goal.

Those boos directed at Wenger, this time, may point the Frenchman toward the exit door, given the reaction of Van Persie to Oxlade-Chamberlain’s substitution, who’ll leave Arsenal in a nanosecond if they fall out of Champions League contention. We may all look back at the losses to Swansea and United as Wenger’s tipping point.

Ah, but enough about the Gunners woes and on to three reactions to the Red Devil’s performance.

First, it’s the same story yet again for Sir Alex’s men, as goes the Red Devil wide play so goes the United attack. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that United were brilliant yet again on the flanks, with North Londoners missing their first- and second-choice full backs and Wenger deploying four center halves across the back.

Repeatedly, United played lovely diagonal balls across the pitch to the left wing, where Nani and an overlapping Evra toyed with Djourou and company mercilessly. THE only thing lacking in the Portuguese’s play was his final ball, which was unable to pick out the correct scoring connection time and again.

Thus, it took an overlapping Giggs to pick out Valencia on the far post with an inch-perfect cross for the Ecuadorian to nod home emphatically to make it one-nil United just before half. Which provides a nice transition to my next point.

Once again, Valencia is my Man of the Match with his goal and assist leading the Reds to victory.

Antonio was wonderful, albeit in a more patient role today, with much of the menace coming down his opposite wing. Credit to the number twenty-five, who held his shape, tracked back, and surged to the far post repeatedly without good service much of the first half. But, when the cross finally came, he pounced on it.

Similarly, when the chance came to run at the inept Arshavin, Valencia took full advantage to bypass the elf-like winger on the simplest of faked crosses to cut inside to the box and create the decisive goal, an absolutely brilliant performance from January’s Player of the Month candidate.

Finally, you could look at the contributions of Carrick, Giggs, Welbeck, and the entire backline, any of which deserve mention in this blog. But, it’s the inclusion of the big Dane in net that warrants a closer look.

I can’t recall Lindegaard making any show stopping saves in this match, yet his assuredness, without Rio or Vidic to calm matters, should not be underestimated.

His command in the air, his distribution, and his willingness to chew out anyone - including Giggs today – that does not close down an opponent demonstrates his complete authority in goal.

United’s young defenders need a strong, vocal keeper to provide an extra measure of confidence that comes from clarity. United’s young defenders need Lindegaard between the pipes at this particular moment.

Thus, here we sit on January 22, 2012, only three points out of first place despite all the injuries and European disappointment.

In the future, we may very well look back on the events of this day as a seminal moment for soccer in the US, United’s 2012 title aspirations, and Arsenal’s eventual slide out of the top four.

And hopefully, it’s Piers Morgan’s final appearance in a soccer commentator’s chair.

Five Reactions to United Leaving Bolton Wondering

You can never complain about a 3-0 victory, especially off two successive Premier League defeats. Yet, the score line didn’t accurately reflect the entire shape and form of United’s performance, with the match grinded out in a labored, workman-like fashion.

Here are my five reactions to today’s victory.

First, United dominated possession comfortably but lacked an edge around goal, with Bolton choosing to defend rather than attack.

You’d expect Owen Coyle to learn from Blackburn’s example and have a go at Ferguson’s men, but inexplicably, he left the battering-ram otherwise known as Kevin Davies on the bench and employed 5 midfielders, even late-on with an ideal opportunity to sub off a midfielder and try two strikers for the final 20 minutes down only a goal.

Bolton had some opportunities and space but they were reluctant to commit players forward. On the few occasions the Wanderers caught out United, they misfired horribly in the final third of the pitch, thankfully.

Second, United’s most consistent source of menace was Antonio Valencia, once again, who terrorized Bolton’s defenders all afternoon. His ability to get around the outside of defenders or turn them inside out and deliver immaculate service cannot be underestimated at the moment. The man, fully back from a horrendous ankle injury, is arguably United’s most important and in-form player for several weeks now.

Third, Michael Carrick is class. Pure. And. Simple.

Once again, I can’t recall him getting caught in possession nor leaving a single pass astray. Remarkable. Carrick’s value by now should go without question, as his long-range strike was a fitting jewel to crown his marvelous performance. He’s my co-MOTM with Valencia – both absolutely vital to the Reds success today.

Fourth, he scores goals, that Paul Scholes.

The crowd imploring the ginger-haired-wonder to shoot any time he took possession inside 50 yards from goal brought a nice bit of levity to a largely listless and somewhat, at times, uneasy match.

What a lovely sight to witness the joy on Scholesy’s face again after netting his 151st goal for United, the first since August 2010, which bookend’s Henry’s triumphant return to Arsenal to complete a fitting flashback-trip from father time.

Fifth, with Scholes’ return, that leaves many questions about Ferguson’s midfield. It’s no coincidence that Gibson leaves after going on a bender with Rooney. That move made sense, certainly, with or without a night on the town, which probably expedited matters.

But, you must wonder, what about the lack of minutes for Morrison and Pogba?

Granted, a certain young French midfielder graced the bench today, but he didn’t play, and Morrison’s inability to make the subs list speaks volumes about United’s belief in either signing the lad or his ability to cope with this step up. On either front, it doesn’t bode well for Morrison staying at Old Trafford, despite everything United’s done to protect the troubled lad’s career.

You wonder if both sides are employing hard line tactics, which may fade at the 11th hour, or if in fact the lad thinks he should be playing week in, week out for another EPL club. Time will tell, surly.

Regardless, the Reds sit with City at the top of the league, despite massive injuries, contract drama, transfer rumors, and relatively poor form headed into the most difficult portion of the fixture list.

Let us pray for speedy return to health for the injured, especially Tom Cleverley to bolster the central midfield.

Let us trust in England’s most successful manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, who’s turning in arguably his most impressive managerial feat, given the injuries and drama around the club going back to Rooney’s near-departure last term.

What a joy to follow the world’s most successful manager at his peak. Every single one of us loves Sir Alex Ferguson.

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Back at you after the Arsenal match. Cheers.

The Good, the Bad, and the Victory

The party atmosphere of the first half quickly turned nervy as United hold on for a 3-2 victory to knockout City in the 3rd round of the FA Cup. This match highlighted practically every single Red Devil strength and weakness all in one match.

First, lets revel in the strengths.

Sir Alex got the tactics spot-on with Rooney dropping back into an attacking midfield position, arguably his best position on the pitch, Smalling at center-half with Jones moving wide right, and Welbeck alone upfront, where his size, pace, and ever-improving first touch causes opponents headaches.

Second, United’s attack from wide areas was sublime in the first half, especially the service provided by Valencia on the right, where Kolarov was beaten like a rented mule.

The single-and-critical pass of the entire match came from Antonio’s inch-perfect cross that Rooney adroitly nodded off the underside of the cross-bar to make it 1-0 on the Red’s first real foray into the blue half of the pitch.

The Valencia/Jones and Evra/Nani combination provide the best option to pull defenses apart for United at the moment.

Third, the Red Devils were lethal in front of goal early with Rooney’s aforementioned header and Welbeck’s volley oozing with class. Once United went up 2-0 City were fortunate to only be down 3-0 at half, as Ferguson’s men could have easily been up by four or more.

At half, the discussion revolved around damage control for City, as nobody really thought they stood a chance of making it a game, given the man-advantage and form of the Reds.

But, up steps United’s weaknesses in Technicolor.

First, the Reds make the cardinal mistake of conceding a goal very early in the second half from a set piece just off the area on United’s left-hand side, which immediately lifts City’s play and provides a glimmer of hope for Mancini’s men.

Scoring in the first, say, 10 minutes of the second half is THE only way back in the match the blue moon; otherwise, this match surly ends by a two-or-more-goal differential to United.

Second, the one goal also brings out shaky nerves from the entire back line, especially from Evra, at fault for the foul on Kolarov’s goal and whose knack for getting pulled out of position has become real Achilles heal for the back line.

Too often either Rio of Lindegaard can be seen screaming at the wayward Frenchman, who seems to need some sort of positional shock-collar to hold shape in these matches, or to borrow Gary Neville’s quip about Sideshow Bob, he sometimes plays like he’s controlled by a 10-year-old using a joystick on a Play Station.

Third, Sir Alex’s lack of depth and form in the midfield hath brought Scholesy out of retirement to provide extra cover, leading to all sorts of questions about finances as well as confidence in the current squad.

What must Anderson and Park be thinking when Scholes enters the match before them in the 59th minute?

What did you think seeing Scholesy wearing an unfamiliar number twenty-two as he takes the pitch for his first action all season?

At first glance, surly, happiness for the Reds to see the man who scores goals, yet a twinge of fear because of his potentially poor form and tackling ability in a cauldron of a match. A HUGE gamble by the gaffer, surly crossed many a mind amidst the joy of seeing the ginger-haired-assassin.

Scholes’ ability to play keep-ball paid dividends in the last ten minutes, but bringing him on with 30+ minutes to play proved too risky, as his turnover ultimately led to City making it 3-2 with 25 now-edgy minutes left in the contest.

Thus, even Ferguson got his substitutions out of order, as you wonder if Anderson had come on first and Scholes second, would United have conceded another goal? We’ll never know, but the risk-reward-ratio seemed out-of-whack even for the most die-hard Sir Alex supporter.

Ultimately, though, United did win a huge match to knockout the title-holding, noisy neighbors after two horrible matches.

Full credit goes to the Reds and Rooney for the victory. The number ten answered his critics on a huge stage and demonstrated why he’s a world-class player, as he willed United into the lead with their first opportunity and emphatically kissed the Red Devil Crest yet again in front of City supporters.

So, United move on to the FA Cup’s fourth round at Anfield after ending City’s bid for silverware – a brilliant, brilliant outcome despite the nervy journey.

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Back at you after the Bolton match. Cheers.