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.
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