Authors: Doron and Nik

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Manchester United were down in London to try and match City’s win over Fulham and go level on points again with their neighbours at the top of the table. De Gea returned in goal whilst Rooney and Young came back from injuries to start. Chelsea were forced to give Gary Cahill a debut at the back as they suffered from a few injuries. Having been 3-0 down after 50 minutes, United fought back to draw 3-3 but can maybe feel aggrieved to have not taken maximum points.

Here we discuss the talking points of the game and invite Chelsea fans to join in the discussion below.

3 defensive errors = 3 simple goals

The first goal was quite simple to analyse in that Patrice Evra should really be nullifying the threat of Sturridge once the Chelsea player had moved into the box. Sturridge was able to exploit the right side for most of the game with Young not as adept as Park in a defensive positions from the wide left position. (It’s hindisight analysis at its best, but as mentioned below, perhaps Park over Young would have been the smarter choice here.) Once in the position, a trademark shimmy and drop of the shoulder sold Evra short and the Englishman was able to earn a little luck by reaching the by-line and crossing the ball low and hard into the crowded six-yard box. To give Evra a reasonable amount of credit, he aimed to jockey rather than dive in, and was probably wary of showing the youngster inside where he has been deadly of late on his left foot.

The second goal, though exquisite from the little Spaniard, was largely avoidable. Throughout the game, Ferdinand had seemingly been instructed to track Torres whenever in his ‘operational zone’; whether this is in response to the history United (and Vidic in particular) have with Torres is not clear, but nonetheless the scenario materialised. Instead of the pacier and more agile of the two centre-backs in Evans performing this role, Rio marshaled Torres high and wide, which in hindsight was a glaring error (he is far more suited to sitting the deeper of the two centre-backs, reading the game with aplomb). Within a minute of the restart, Rio was thus dragged to the far right side of Chelsea’s attack where Torres typically finds joy in receiving the ball; Evra quickly covered in the centre, and as Ferdinand retreated having left the forward in a ‘safe’ position, the ex-Liverpool man timed his cross to perfection, with Mata – left entirely free by the re-shuffled pack of Rafael, Evans and Evra – finishing superbly on the volley from close range.

The third goal was a farce from start to finish. Having received the ball on the halfway line from Evra, Giggs turns into trouble as his first touch unusually evades him, allowing Meireles to intercept. Sturridge is then able to get a run at the out-of-position Evra, with the latter tripping the forward conceding the freekick. Once again, Mata influences the game here; as with his wonderfully flighted direct freekick in the closing stages, the cross for this particular goal was equally as well executed. Amazingly however, United’s backline is disorganised in the extreme – there are seven United defenders to Chelsea’s three forward players at the time of delivery (see below); Rooney and Rafael are spare at the back whilst Evans and Rio marshal Torres and Sturridge respectively. Luiz (6 foot +), the goal-scorer, sits between Evra and Carrick. With one simple verbal instruction, Ferdinand could have ushered the line 2 meters to the left, meaning that he matched the Portuguese’s height, with Evans and Rooney picking up the remaining players. He moves a fraction too late and with that Chelsea should have put the game to bed. This was defensive zonal marking at its worst, and Fergie would have been apoplectic.

7 United players vs. 3 Chelsea players

4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3: subtle yet effective

Fergie outshone AVB with his changes from the side. Losing 0-3, Hernandez quickly replaced Young (who looked jaded and not ready to replace the recently astute Park), and just past the hour mark we saw the introduction of Scholes, with the resulting tactical change being hugely influential to the outcome. Rafael had once again showed why he is United’s best option at right fullback, and in one sense can think himself as unlucky as he was at the Emirates to be withdrawn. However, Fergie’s thinking here should be rewarded, and the broader tactical shift at this juncture recognised. With Hernandez already on, the boss wanted to move from the starting shape of 4-2-3-1 to a more direct 4-3-3 – the resulting effect being that the midfield trio was able to play in closer union, and with greater width being applied in the final third. With Rooney operating closer to the (Mexican) striker with Welbeck pushing wide right and Giggs (who struggled defensively in a central role during key phases) moving wide left, it also allowed Scholes and Carrick to re-assert United’s influence in the middle Chelsea’s brief ascendancy.

Fergie, who chose not to select Scholes for the 3rd time in a week despite his excellent form (self-inflicted then given the manager’s precision planning) was probably always going to use the midfielder for half an hour either way, whether chasing the game or for protecting a lead. By removing Rafael instead of say, Giggs, he tried to exploit Chelsea’s apparent lack of width on the left side – with Bosingwa and Malouda pinned back by Valencia (see chalkboard 1), Mata in a free role and Torres drifting horizontally throughout. Valencia was thus sure to see more of the ball high up the field than at the Emirates, and sure enough, his astute one-two with Welbeck down the right ended in Rooney’s parried shot, and Giggs’ sublime assist for Hernandez.

Chalkboard 1: Valencia able to curtail Malouda influence starting deep

Giggs’ width proved crucial then, again just like his assist for Valencia at the Emirates after a similar shift in position (and his vital assist for Rooney there in the Champions League); the application of the cross was executed with the experience of a trained assassin, able to block out the chaos that surrounded him, he picked out the excellent movement of Hernandez who had evaded Luiz not once, but three times in quick succession. At 1-3 United were now keeping Chelsea’s fullbacks in retreat, restricting Matas influence, and allowing Rio to defend and keep his position without worrying about Torres; and Rooney to collude with greater fluidity as part of a front four. AVB’s removal of Sturridge for Romeu on the other hand was textbook naivety – as a player who operates in a highly static defensive role, it was a change that was unsuited to such a frenetic and fast-paced game. Fergie’s re-jigging allowed United to claim a vital point from a seemingly impossible situation.

Maturing Rafael

Right back has been an interesting spot this season with Smalling, Jones and Valencia playing more in that position than the squad’s stand-out natural right back, Rafael. It would seem that the twins are made of glass, every time they get fit they then pick up an injury again soon after – Rafael recently acknowledged this may have something to do with his whole-hearted attitude to playing and says he won’t curb it.

In his short United career so far, Rafael’s been associated more with his attacking play – direct, skilful and dangerous; as opposed to his defending. Rather, he’s been criticised for being rash, too enthusiastic and somewhat naive. However, his recent return to the first team after injury has seen something of a new Rafael.

Chalkboard 2: Rafael tackles against Chelsea and Arsenal

His new found maturity has seen defensive work and learning pay off as he’s managed to replicate Evra but on the right hand side. His reading of players, particularly the more elusive, skilful opponents is superb and he no longer dives into tackles too early but has nearly perfected picking the opportune moment to commit. The chalkboards above show how solid he was against both Chelsea and Arsenal (not shown is the Liverpool game but he was great in that too). So much so, that of the full backs, he’s got the best tackle success rate this season (69% – by comparison, Evra is 64%) and makes more tackles per game than any other player in the squad.

Rooney grafts again

Rooney received a lot of praise after the Arsenal game for his work-rate and ‘team performance’. The same can be said of him this time round too. For a lot of the first half he cut a peripheral figure – involved in flashes of neat passing but with little zest to his game. After half time and United had fallen three behind he morphed into a different player.

Despite missing the Liverpool and Stoke games due to injury, he was tireless today, chasing and hounding Chelsea players all over the pitch. He was particularly impressive when picking the ball up deep, beating one man before accelerating forward into space that seemed to open up in front of him. In the latter stages in particular he was finding space in the style of a classic ‘number 10′ – between the lines, much like Van der Vaart does – and was therefore almost impossible to pick up.

Chalkboard 3: Rooney’s passing and tackling

The one area of Rooney’s game that was poor today was his final ball. As can be seen above, most of his failed passes came when attempting balls in the final part of the pitch. In fact, he failed to make a single successful pass to any United player in the area. Maybe this was due to good defending or the sheer number of defenders back for Chelsea, but it was the sole source of frustration in his performance today. It goes without saying, his two penalties were superbly well taken – with 19 goals from 25 games in all competitions this season, he’s once again proving crucial to United.

Rio’s booed

We’ve all done it. When an ex-player returns to the ground he once graced the whistles, jeering and boos ring round like an Atomic Kitten concert at Old Trafford. The boos and jeering and also on show when an opposition player smashes into a player on your side and gets aways with a yellow card or, just a warning. Its infuriating! How dare that man prance around the turf having gotten away with such an injustice. Boos ringing around a ground are part of the pantomime of football, which should never change. But to boo someone, possibly based upon the fact that they are the relation of a person who reported a racist incident against the captain of their football club – is one of the most moronic things I’ve ever heard.

I want to find out from Chelsea fans (those who agreed with the booing and those that opposed it) what the reason was for it? Is it because Ferdinand is the brother of Anton Ferdinand? Is it because Rio Ferdinand doesn’t (apparently) see eye to eye with the Chelsea skipper? Is it because Rio Ferdinand shunned the captaincy based upon the circus the last time? We’re interested to find out as I couldn’t work out the reason for the booing. Perhaps if the mother of both Rio and Anton were present she get some stick as well? Since they’re related, of course.

Fan mentality suggests that once a pocket of fans start booing, others will follow – there’s a good chance a lot of the fans actually had no idea why they were booing Rio. Anyways, it is quite clear to see the stance here, but I’m trying very hard to see a logical argument for it. We, as always, welcome sensible debates and points – so any Chelsea fan that wants to discuss this maturely, is more than welcome.

Other thoughts:

Finally there was some positivity around De Gea after the game. He could do nothing about any of the goals conceded and definitely played a part in winning a point. In the last minutes of the game, Juan Mata’s fabulous free kick look destined for the top corner but De Gea at full stretch produced a world class save to keep the scores level. For a keeper who’s ability to save long range shots was questioned in Spain, that was a stunning moment of goalkeeping.

Paul Scholes. There was a lot of cynicism around his return to the side but if possible he looks even fitter and better than any time in the past four years. His introduction, coupled with the change in shape had a huge impact on the game. His ability to control the tempo of play and still ping balls across the pitch at will is a huge asset. As mentioned on Twitter, his return just highlights how mad it was to not replace him in the summer.

Should Fergie have started Hernandez instead of Welbeck? As soon as Hernandez came on he had Cahill and Luiz scared, holding a high line and making clever darting runs. Indeed his movement for the equaliser was outstanding and undefendable. Welbeck had been working hard all game and has been excellent recently but he seemed to drop deep too often and maybe got too emotionally involved with the defenders. After the game, Fergie said:

“To be honest, I maybe should have played Chicharito from the start. When he came on, he just had them on toast really. He really put them under pressure with his movement and positional play. Danny Welbeck has been terrific and he’s going to be a top player. But when Chicharito came on in the second half, it was a different game.”

Summary

Another season where United leave Stamford Bridge without three points. Despite playing well and being denied a penalty, United found themselves behind at half-time. Daniel Sturridge’s quick feet and trickery saw him beat Evra before pulling the ball back across goal where it hit Evans and went in. After the break United were quickly three behind. First Torres’ cross was superbly volleyed in from close range by Mata before Luiz’s header took a huge deflection off Ferdinand and left De Gea with no chance.

Ferguson’s reaction was to gamble and change the shape of the team. It paid off as United scored two quick penalties won by Evra and Welbeck – the second a little fortunate as Welbeck seemed to trip himself up. Rooney took both penalties well and United found themselves level after 80 minnutes. Rooney’s shot was parried wide by Cech but Giggs was the first to react and his ball in found Hernandez unmarked (due to great movement) and he easily scored. United couldn’t find a fourth to produce a remarkable comeback but had De Gea to thank for any points at all – Juan Mata’s late free-kick look destined for the top corner until a wonderful outstretched hand of De Gea kept it out.

All in all a point was a good return considering what had happened but it’s hard not to feel that United should have won the game and, as usual, only made it difficult for themselves – the draw shouldn’t mask the fact Chelsea were there for the taking and United should have returned north with three points. United next face Liverpool at home in the league on Saturday in the lunch time kick off.

AUTHOR: – Doron

Manchester City took a step closer to ending their 35 year barren spell as they defeated United 1-0 at Wembley. Both teams were missing key strikers but the game was won in the midfield with an error from United, pounced upon by City. Here we discuss the Talking Points of the game and encourage both United and City fans to leave their thoughts on an intense game.

Talking Points

Small margins

The build-up to the game was all fairly odd. There was pessimism amongst City fans, nervous confidence amongst United fans, and the media had United down as favourites given form and the loss of Tevez. Form aside, it was always going to be tight. There was little doubt that Fergie would match City’s 4-5-1 and given the games between the two sides already this year, this was hardly going to be romp for either team.

Games between United and City recently are seldom won by anything other than a moment of magic or an error. These fine margins are the difference between success and failure, today was no different. It was a shame that it was the combination of Edwin and Carrick – arguably two of United’s two best performers both up to that point in the game and in recent weeks, that were at fault for the City goal.

The goal came shortly after half time yet United could have, and should have gone in ahead at the break. Fine margins again came into play as Berbatov missed two glorious chances – the second being pretty much an open goal. City ended up scoring the only goal after a poor kick from Edwin was badly controlled by Carrick. Yaya Toure pounced and finished well – from then on City were able to defend somewhat comfortably without truly looking threatening as their 2 shots on target suggests.

Paul Scholes

As Ferguson put it post-match: “he has these red mist moments and this was another one”. Few will doubt Paul Scholes is one of the finest midfielders to play for United and England but he has moments of madness that seem to take over him.

Actually, Scholes had started well. His radar was very much ‘on’ and unsurprisingly United players were seeking him out at every opportunity. Similarly, Carrick was looking comfortable – a reassurance given that in the absence of Scholes lately, Carrick had stepped up giving the perception that he’s better without Scholes. The problem in playing both Scholes and Carrick was a lack of thrust in the middle – until Anderson came on, this didn’t exist.

Already a goal down, the game became even tougher with Scholes being shown a straight red card. Scholes may have had eyes for the ball but he was late, he was high and he caught Zabaleta flush on the thigh with his boot. It didn’t really seem to change the pattern of the second half though – City were more than content to allow United to have possession in the centre of the pitch knowing that they had plenty of blue shirts back to defend.

The question now is, what next for Scholes? His suspension means he can’t play in the league again until the 8th May when United host Chelsea. With one goal, this is Scholes’s worst goalscoring season so far and as it stands would be only the 3rd time in 17 years that he’s played less than 30 games a season (currently on 27). In a frank interview with the newspapers, Scholes hinted he’s considering retirement with a testimonial game pencilled in for August. I don’t doubt that Scholes is one of the finest players I’ve ever seen but he’s often looked off the pace this year, if he did decide to retire he’d go out with his head held very high.

Berbatov, Chicharito and Rooney

Rooney’s unavailability gave Fergie a selection issue. He was always going to match City’s 4-5-1 so it was down to who was the ’1′ and who’d play behind him. He chose Berbatov with Park behind him. The problems with this were two-fold – when Berbatov held a high line no one really got up to support him and Park was dragged about by Toure and Silva hence not providing a link; however when Berbatov dropped deep, United’s play became too cramped.

Berbatov, whilst guilty of missing excellent chances and fading in and out of the game, did little wrong. The issue lay behind him. This was shown when Chicharito came on – he held a high line, playing off the last defender, but like Berbatov, he had no link man close enough behind him.

What this highlighted was just how important Rooney is to United when they want to play a system with one striker. If Rooney plays behind the striker, like he recently did against Chelsea in the Champions League, he’s unplayable. If Rooney plays upfront as a lone striker – he combines the best assets of both Berbatov and Chicharito to cause trouble and hassle the defenders throughout the game.

Against Man City, the best option may well have been a bold 4-4-2, against a physically strong defence a lone striker didn’t seem enough. Going 4-4-2 would have meant being outnumbered in the middle though – a gamble, but maybe one worth taking.

Match Conclusion

Both sides had key selection decisions to make ahead of this game – Manchester City chose Balotelli ahead of Dzeko to fill the void left by Carlos Tevez’s injury, whilst United went for Berbatov to replace Rooney. Berbatov nearly put United ahead early on – first he saw a one on one saved by Hart and then could only shoot over after Nani’s cross saw him with a near enough open goal just 2 yards out. United seemed to be comfortable and dominant in possession with Vidic and Ferdinand comfortably able to deal with anything City threw at them. However as half time loomed, City had chances through Barry, Balotelli, Lescott and then Kompany as they finished the game on the up.

City started the second half as they finished the first – on the front food. Their dominance was rewarded after 52 minutes – the goal came from a United error. Van der Sar cleared the ball only as far as Carrick (25 yards out) whose touch was poor, allowing Yaya Toure to pick up on the mis-control and he steamrollered past Vidic before slotting the ball under the on-rushing Van der Sar.

United’s response to the goal was somewhat anonymous. City seemed invigorated by their goal and lead by the outstanding David Silva, they could have scored two more soon after. Having fallen behind, United finally went to a 4-4-2 with Chicharito on for Valencia – he came on to see Nani’s free kick hit the crossbar. United were then reduced to 10 men as Scholes went in high and late on Zabaleta’s thigh – few could complain he deserved red. Despite further possession from United and only restricting City to two shots on target all game, United couldn’t come close to an equaliser and it’s City who progress to play either Bolton or Stoke in the final.

United now travel to Newcastle on Tuesday night in a must-win league game.

AUTHOR: – Doron

AUTHOR: – Doron

It’s 56 years since Man City beat United in the FA Cup, that was only a 4th round tie though. You have to go back 85 years to find the only previous meeting in the semi-final of this competition between these two side – City were victorious, winning 3-0 at Bramall Lane that day. Sticking with the years theme, City will be looking to reach their first FA Cup final since 1981 to give themselves a chance of ending the 35 year barren spell; whereas for United, the competition’s most successful side, a 4 year absence from the final would be ended. Oh, and these two sides happen to be pretty big rivals…

It’s hard to analyse City’s season so far, but I think it has to be deemed a success. More than £150m has been spent on new players over the duration of the past 9-10 months, it’s impossible to make that work straight away – a squad needs time to gel. Therefore I think any expectations associated with winning the league this year would have been a bit premature. The aim was surely Champions League qualification which they have a real chance of achieving (so long as they play like they want it(!), themselves and Spurs seem to be doing everything possible to not get 4th spot).

The disappointing thing in my opinion was the Europa League campaign – obviously for United fans it was a source of amusement – but in truth it probably represented a great chance to win a trophy. That said if you focus on Europe, the league form may suffer.

There are plenty of individual positives – players who have stood out and shone; yet also plenty who haven’t. It’s the team, not so much individuals where frustration must lie for Blues. There have been too many silly defeats (particularly away from home) and 14 points from 48 dropped at home is just too many to be challenging right at the very top for now, especially given how tight the league is. Similarly City’s results in the ‘big’ games haven’t been up to scratch – I can understand that setting up not to lose can see 1 point won rather than 3 lost but sometimes you have to take the gamble and go for a win. I think part of that ties in with a lack of ability to be flexible in a system – it’s the same criticism I’ve made of Wenger and Arsenal – they only really play one way… there isn’t a plan B.

It’s incredibly hard to judge the mentality at City at the moment. The news that Carlos Tevez would miss this tie and the next few weeks was met with an almighty grown and thoughts about this game immediately became pessimistic from their fans. Yet, this game should (and I don’t mean this sarcastically) be massive for City fans; there should be sheer excitement about the prospect of potentially beating their rivals and making a cup final.

City themselves must be given some respect. Despite losing their talisman, top scorer and hated former Red Carlos Tevez, they have some players who have had very good seasons. Vincent Kompany has arguably been the league’s second best centre back behind Vidic. Whilst in the midfield Yaya Toure has adapted to English football and is an important part of the team after a shaky start. David Silva in many ways has been one of the underrated buys of the season – he’s looked an exceptional footballer and is often at the heart of City’s best attacking moves. Silva’s ability to float anywhere across the pitch is something United will have to pay close attention to, certainly for the first 30 minutes of the recent derby match at Old Trafford, he was allowed way too much freedom. Although Adam Johnson isn’t likely to start I think he’s an exciting young footballer and certainly would provide an interesting challenge for whoever plays right back should he come on.

The Blues have few new injuries ahead of this game; missing are – Given, K Toure, M Johnson, Tevez and Boateng. Micah Richards should be fit for his first game in three weeks whilst De Jong and Silva will be fresh having been rested for the 3-0 defeat at Anfield on Monday night. Who replaces Tevez will be key, Dzeko has struggled to regularly find the net since his move yet Balotelli has a short fuse but scores goals.

City will no doubt stick to the 4-5-1 formation that they’ve played all year. Having been so defence in that system at Eastlands earlier in the season it was a surprise to see them play that same way yet look positive and attacking a couple of months ago at Old Trafford. It goes to show the flexibility of the formation and Mancini will have a big decision to make in how he tells his team to play.

Monday was when City last played, so they will be one day fresher than United. They lost their last game, a crushing defeat away at Anfield and incredibly they haven’t won away from home since Boxing Day. City’s record against fellow Premier League teams in the FA Cup is not good, they’ve only won 2 of their last 7. To get this far they’ve beaten Reading, Aston Villa, Leicester and Notts County – they needed a replay to beat Leicester and Notts County though. Impressively, City have won 8 of their 10 previous FA Cup semi finals.

As form goes – City have been erratic, in the league it’s only 7 points taken from a last possible 18, away from home in the league incredibly that becomes 2 from a last possible 18. In all competitions their form becomes 3 wins and 3 defeats in their last six games.

Enough on City though…onto United and my predicted line up:

What a time to be a United fan eh!? The club reached the semi-finals of the Champions League this past week and are 7 points clear at the top of the league. There are even mutterings of a potential treble – but before dreams can become a hopeful reality, this semi-final needs to be addressed. United are due some FA Cup success – it’s 7 years and two unsuccessful finals since the last cup-final win, a victory over Millwall.

The problem with team selection ahead of this one is firstly the absence of Rooney (suspension) and secondly the matter of a tough away game on Tuesday against Newcastle. Firstly, the missing men: Amos, Lindegaard, Evans (suspension), Fletcher, Hargreaves and Rooney (suspension). Considering I expect City to play a 4-5-1, I think United will match them in a a fluid system. Ahead of Edwin, I’ve gone for the ‘first choice’ back four with the fit again Rafael replacing O’Shea – the only concern is that City have some big players so O’Shea’s extra height could be needed. Rio said he’d be fit having shaken off a knock to the knee he picked up on Tuesday. Vidic and Evra are mainstays of the team.

The area up for most debate will be the midfield. I’ve picked a midfield capable of defending as a solid 5, but able to attack with men forward to support the lone striker. Valencia is fresh having not started on Tuesday and his battle with either Zabaleta or Kolarov could be key for both sides. In the middle, Scholes should start, he tends to play well against City, controlling the game. Alongside Scholes, the in-form Carrick I should imagine will be tasked with protecting Scholes and getting the ball to him at every possible occasion. On the left – Park – his energy and tactical discipline will go a long way to helping the midfield out. Ahead of the midfield, linking them to the striker, I’ve picked Anderson. He played this role against Arsenal and City this year and did well both times – he likes big games, so this could be right for him. It seems harsh to leave out Giggs and Nani but they’ll provide great options on the bench.

Up front, I’ve selected Berbatov. He can do the lone strikers role – he lead the line well away at City in the league this year. His selection will be key to keeping possession but will also rely on the midfield to supply and help him. Chicharito may struggle on his own against a strong City defence and off the bench would be a dangerous option. One shouldn’t totally rule out the possibility of a 4-4-2 and therefore a start for Chicharito or maybe even Owen.

United are on a run of 7 games won in a row and appear to have hit form at the perfect time. They are in fact only the 4th most in-form side in the league but the third most in-form away from home. So far to reach this stage in the cup, United have seen off Arsenal, Liverpool, Southampton and Crawley Town. It’s a competition that has alluded the club since 2004 when a record 11th FA Cup was won. A win would see United make a 19th final in the competition – this is a record 27th semi-final appearance. If Giggs plays he may be a lucky omen, he’s played in 7 previous FA Cup semi finals and never lost.

This will be the 8th meeting between the sides in the FA Cup. United hold a 5-2 advantage in the win column however, they have never scored away against City or at a neutral ground against City in this tournament. The most recent Cup meeting came in 2004 when United ran out 4-2 victors. In both 2004 and 1996, having knocked City out the cup, United went on to win it.

United have struggled for goals in the cup this year, just six in four games. However, they are 4 games unbeaten vs. their rivals and have only lost once (in the League Cup) since City were taken-over. This season United have drawn 0-0 at City but beat them 2-1 at Old Trafford and therefore have the edge in the head-to-head record. I believe that Tevez will be missed more than Rooney will be and that could be key. Both sides will be hungry to reach the final and ‘get one over’ their rivals. Therefore I shall predict a nervy 2-1 United win.

You can share with us your thoughts ahead of the match and your favourite moments from FA Cup games against Man City on our forum. You can read the City perspective on the game from our friends over at View From A Blue by clicking here.

These weren’t FA Cup moments, but I doubt anyone will complain…

AUTHOR: – Doron

Further Reading:
- Manchester City’s emphasis on a flat back four & getting the early goal

This is easily my favourite match of the season. With our noisy neighbours talking more and more about surpassing us, there is no better way to put them in their place than winning at their home ground. A few years ago I may have said Liverpool was my most anticipated opponent, but things change. I would have to be a fool to say Manchester City hasn’t improved in recent seasons; they have. They’re not yet a title contender in my eyes, but they’re getting close and they’re certainly capable of qualifying for Champions League. There is no doubt that City is making strides forward, but when United travel to Eastlands on Wednesday it will be the perfect opportunity to remind the bitters who the top team in Manchester is.

Fancy a bet on Manchester City vs. Manchester United tonight?

There is no doubt in my mind that City is my most hated rival. Being stuck with a City fan as a randomly-assigned roommate freshman year built up even more animosity toward the noisy neighbours. And while I liked my roommate, his bitter talk directed at United only made me hate City more. That was before the Sheikh. City fans have grown increasingly frustrating with their talk of glory despite their squad’s shortcomings in the field. Enough of my own hatred for City though. We all hate City; we are United after all!

Defeating City certainly isn’t all about crushing the noisy neighbours’ delusions of grandeur. There is a title to be won. The gap between United and the top of the table has been cut to two points following Chelsea’s shock defeat against Liverpool over the weekend. At the very least, United must keep the pressure on the defending champions. Should Fulham manage a shock result at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, then United would be top of the table for the first time this season.

Three points at Eastland certainly won’t come easy. Though Roberto Mancini’s squad has suffered a bad run of form lately, you can count on them to raise their game when United is involved. The bad news is that United are in the midst of coping with a depleted squad. With five goals and nine assists Nani has been the most influential player in the squad this season. An injury picked up against Bursaspor last week has ruled him out of the Manchester derby. Owen Hargreaves is back on the sidelines after a five minute return to action. Antonio Valencia is still months away from any involvement. Oh, and of course that Rooney bloke is busy in the United States sorting out his head.

On a more positive note, Dimitar Berbatov and Ryan Giggs should be available after recovering from flu and injury respectively. I suspect Giggs will continue his streak of being involved in every Manchester derby since his career began. Giggs’ fellow returnee Beberatov should make his 100th appearance for the club on Wednesday. So, this brings us to the tactical predictions. In a tough away fixture, Sir Alex will likely deploy the team in a 4-5-1. Berbatov will be expected to play as the lone striker, while Giggs is the obvious choice on the left wing. After a stunning performance against Wolves over the weekend, Ji-Sung Park should be the man on the opposite flank.

As difficult as this is to admit, City will be a difficult opponent. And as Sir Alex typically does against tough opposition, a midfield trio will likely be used in an attempt to dominate the centre third. Michael Carrick seems to have rediscovered his form, and having been rested this weekend looks likely to play against City. Alongside him will be Darren Fletcher and Paul Scholes. The Scotland captain is the engine at the heart of midfield. He drives our team. His energy will be key at breaking down City’s midfield. And, of course, there is our ginger genius. At 35, Scholes is still a key component of the squad and his passing will be crucial to provide the strikers with service. Of course, few will forget Scholes’ contribution in this fixture last campaign. Perhaps he’ll provide us with another winning goal this time around.

Edwin van der Sar will start between the posts with what should be our first-choice back four in front of him. Rafael seems to have finally established himself as the first-choice right back, and his pace and energy will be important in dealing with City’s threat on the wings. Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, and Patrice Evra are all automatic selections when fit. Enough said.

Mancini will likely maintain the conservative tactics he’s used all season. Despite spending a fortune on attacking talent in the past few transfer windows, the Italian typically deploys three holding midfielders in Gareth Barry, Nigel de Jong, and Yaya Toure. Consequently, City’s primary threat is likely to come from the wings. You can always count on Park to put in a tireless performance, and his presence on the wing will be important for stifling City’s attack from wide areas.

We are all familiar with City’s star man. Some of you may know him as a traitor. Others may call him a money-grabbing whore. Perhaps you refer to him as both. Of course I’m speaking of Carlos Tevez. He may have been the third-choice striker in his second and final season at Old Trafford, but he’s found the back of the net more than a few times since pulling on the blue shirt of City. The Argentinian will be City’s primary threat in front of goal, and there is little doubt he will keep Rio and Vidic busy for 90 minutes.

With Mancini expected to stick with his aforementioned negative tactics and Sir Alex likely to crowd the midfield, I can’t see many goals in this one. With regards to last season, expect more of last season’s 1-0 win at Eastlands rather than the 4-3 thriller at Old Trafford. Both have a point to prove. City is determined to prove the tides are changing in Manchester. United will want to prove the status quo is still in place. Neither will want to take big risks for fear of conceding. I simply can’t make an unbiased prediction this time around. I become ill at the thought of City beating us. But, making my best attempt to set bias aside and provide an educated prediction, I believe United will come away from this match 1-0 winners with Berbatov getting back amongst the goals.

Discuss this match in the forum

You can follow Kyle on Twitter at KDill_MUFC

Here is a treat from Stretford-End.com ahead of the derby match tomorrow. Time to spice it up…bring on Man City!!

You can follow Stretford-End on Twitter @stretford_end

You can follow Yolkie on Twitter @Yolkie_

You can follow Doron on Twitter @DoronSalomon

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As Manchester United fans our focus is firmly on our club. We don’t really spend much time worrying about other teams as we have a belief and confidence in our own side. However, that isn’t to say that from time to time we look around and see what everyone else is doing – it’s only natural to be intrigued. Therefore with three weeks to go until the start of the league season, and nearly a month into the transfer window I thought I’d share my brief thoughts on the competition.

I must point out that I’m not fascinated with other clubs over my own (often a criticism by opposition fans when these sort of things are done); I’m not looking to specifically nail into other clubs either…I am merely giving my honest opinions on how I see things at the moment. Read as you desire into what I have to say.

Chelsea

At present: They are the reigning champions and as expected they will be a threat regardless next year. Right now their tour squad provides an insight into the direction they are heading with lots of younger players included. Abramovich appears to have tightened the purse strings meaning there are spaces up for grabs from within. Benayoun has come in to replace Joe Cole, from the bench at Anfield to the bench at The Bridge.

Strengths: Michael Essien’s return from injury is a huge bonus for Chelsea. He is in my opinion, the best non-United player in the Premiership. Frank Lampard scored more goals last year than he had done before and whilst like all England players his World Cup didn’t go as planned, no one would be surprised if he carried on scoring for Chelsea. Importantly, the squad know what it’s like to win – they have the experience.

Weaknesses: For me the biggest problem is that their squad is thin. They’ve lost a lot of experienced players who between them played quite a few games last year. Any team that loses Joe Cole, Ballack, Belletti and has the prospect of losing Deco and Carvalho is considerably weaker. Chelsea are keen to give youngsters a chance but the reality is that few of them have any real experience. Chelsea have already lost Cech, Alex and it looks like Drogba now as well for the start of the season, a few more injuries or a crisis like we had last year and they’d be in real trouble.

Future: Chelsea MUST sign some players if they want to win the league this year. Their starting XI is of course strong but every team must expect suspensions and injuries which I don’t think they could handle at the moment. If there are no signings (plural – one won’t do) then they may find themselves struggling at times.

Arsenal

At present: Arsenal are a relatively unchanged team from last year (minus some defenders). Their current tour squad is typical of what we’ve seen under Wenger – talent and youth. Wenger has made a couple of moves in the transfer market bringing in Chamakh (straight replacement for Eduardo) and Koscielny (replacement for both Silvestre and Gallas).

Strengths: In three words, talent and Fabregas. Arsenal’s squad oozes with talented youngsters all of whom will be hoping to make a serious mark in the first team next year. Ramsey, Wilshere, Djourou, Nordtveit, Vela, Gibbs, Szczesny, Frimpong and Lansbury all may hope to play bigger roles should they not go out on loan. As it stands, Fabregas remains an Arsenal player. His quality is unquestionable, as is his love for Arsenal. While he remains, Arsenal have a player of true quality in their side. The return to fitness of Van Persie will also be key – if he can stay fit he will add some flair and deadly finishing in the forward areas.

Weaknesses: Arsenal don’t have the experience of winning a trophy. This generation of youngsters haven’t fulfilled their potential yet and are inexperienced when it comes to jumping the final hurdle. If Arsenal have more bad luck with injuries then a repeat of last year may be on the cards. Arsenal must sign a goalkeeper and some centre backs. Almunia was often the reason points were dropped whilst right now the four centre backs (Campbell, Vermaelen, Djourou and Koscielny) don’t strike me as good enough.

Future: As always with an Arsenal team – lots of young talent doesn’t equal success. I think Arsenal should be content with a Champions League place next year – I don’t see them challenging all the way unless a few more players are brought in.

Tottenham

At present: Spurs have a big squad and good depth to it. Harry Redknapp has taken some of the younger players on tour and seems keen to give them a chance. Other than bringing in highly rated midfielder, Sandro, there has been little activity at White Hart Lane even though transfer speculation seems to be going into overdrive.

Strengths: As I said, they have a good deep squad. There is cover in every position bar right back if we’re being picky. The biggest plus for them is that so far they seem to be holding on to prized assets Modric and Bale with ease. The team have seen that they can be successful and no doubt confidence is very high at the moment.

Weaknesses: If Spurs want to remain a part of the top four then their squad is looking good. They will probably need to be in the market for a better striker – ideally someone who can play alone in a 4-5-1 formation. With quite a few players (Jenas, Keane, Pavlyuchenko plus others) possibly on the way out they may need a few more squad players. It will be important to see how seriously they take the Champions League if they get through the qualifiers. If they take it seriously they must make sure it doesn’t affect their league form and Harry may need to rotate the squad more.

Future: If the league remains the priority then Spurs could sneak into the top four again. I believe their squad is superior to Arsenal’s and so they could be the two teams battling it out for 4th place. Lots of players are being linked with a move to Spurs and it certainly seems like the club are moving in the right direction. They may well prove to be a real danger if they can get one or two quality players in.

Manchester City

At present: It’s hard to know what to say. Their squad is big and has some players of the highest quality in it. Speculation in the papers every day is linking them with more and more good players. They are building the core of what looks like a strong youthful team.

Strengths: Money. No player is truly beyond them. They can sign who they like and pay ridiculous wages if necessary. They have bought in a top player in David Silva, a Champions League winner in Yaya Toure and a centre back with real potential in Jerome Boateng. This team is only getting stronger.

Weaknesses: I have to try to be serious and not go down the route of money ruining football. Their weaknesses are probably inexperience when it comes to winning and the risk of the team not gelling. I don’t personally know how much identity means to City fans but with the prospect of a few of their players who’ve come through the academy leaving, they are starting to lose a sense of local identity and are becoming rather international – mind you, I’m not sure it’s bothered Chelsea fans too much. In truth, there aren’t many weaknesses other than the burden of no trophies in a long time and the pressure of living up to their bigger and better (cough) neighbours.

Future: If the team can come together then City may well be a real threat for the title not just for 4th place. The signings they have made suggest intent and with more seemingly to come the blue half of Manchester may well start to dream. I don’t live in fear of City at all but relish the challenge and I do respect the team they are building (I’ve seen City fans on Man United forums suggest we are scared, I’m certainly not…bring it on!).

Liverpool

At present: New manager. Unsettled squad. Rumours of Gerrard, Mascherano and Torres leaving. Only Joe Cole worth mentioning out of the signings, and his arrival was countered by the fact he stole another new signings shirt.

Strengths: Hard to see many but right now with none of the big names leaving -so far – that must count for something.

Weaknesses: The owners want to go. They aren’t in the Champions League. The squad looks poor. It really isn’t a good time to be a Liverpool fan.

Future: I believe at least one of the big three will leave and then it’ll come down to how Hodgson can reinvest the money. Liverpool should be concentrating on getting squad players in so that they can ensure they make Europe next year. I don’t believe one quality player is what they need. Right now their squad is not in good shape and getting into the Europa League spots may be their challenge this year.

Apologies if your team has not been mentioned. I felt it was necessary to mention Liverpool as they are close rivals of ours and they still believe they should be a top four team. I expect Aston Villa and Everton to push Liverpool hard and possibly come above them.

Hopefully what you can see here is that I believe that right now only City have got stronger. I don’t doubt that Manchester United are in a good position to challenge again for the title. We have certainly not got weaker and have the prospect of a large, talented, youthful but experienced, relatively injury-free team to start the season with. There is no harm from time to time in looking at and assessing the opposition with respect. I hope that anyone who had doubts about our own squad can see that actually other teams have bigger problems. Right now, all things considered, bring on the new season, I have a good feeling the opposition are scared of us.

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This has easily been the slowest day for Manchester United news since I started writing the Stretty Stories. The big news is United’s plans to offer Vidic a new deal in order to secure his Old Trafford future. Also in the news is Sir Alex’s rumored interest in Steven Defour and Welbeck being linked with a Sunderland loan.

Despite Sir Alex insisting he is happy with the squad, United continues to be linked with players. I’m curious to see how many of you think there is still some business to be done.

Vidic to be offered improved deal – The Guardian

Less than a day after Sir Alex placed more uncertainty on Nemanja Vidic’s future, The Guardian is now reporting that Manchester United are prepared to offer him a new contract. With Real Madrid rumored to be interest in the Serbian centre back, United are now prepared to offer him a two-year extension would would take his weekly wages from £70,000 to £90,000. As one of the world’s premier defenders the raise is probably both fair and deserved. I’ve made it clear I think Jonny Evans is ready to become even more involved, but I’d still prefer Vidic at the back for now. Especially with Rio Ferdinand’s recurring injuries we can’t afford to lose our other first-choice defender right now.

Fergie makes his move for £13m Defour – The Sun

Typically I think The Sun is full of fabrications written with the sole intent of selling newspapers, but I actually think this one may prove to be true. Ever since reports of Sir Alex’s letter of encouragement following Steven Defour’s broken foot I’ve always assumed that Defour would one day join United, I just wasn’t sure when. A letter is by no means the same as an offer for the player, but I just don’t see Ferguson writing a letter to a player he has no interest in. If that was the case, there are a lot of injuries throughout the course of a season; what makes Defour so special? I don’t know anything about Defour other than he’s Belgian and an attacking midfielder. I’ve never seen him play, so I’m not really in a position to comment on whether or not this would be a good signing. I encourage those who have seen him play to go to the forum and maybe fill us in on his credentials.

Welbeck set to join Sunderland on loan – The Daily Mirror

Yesterday Sir Alex said he intended to send Danny Welbeck on loan to a Premier League team this season, and today the Stadium of Light seems like the most likely destination. I’m not sure how I feel about him being linked to Sunderland. I think being loaned to a Premier League club is fantastic, I’m just not sure Sunderland will be the best club for his development.

And now for a bit about our rivals…

Zabaleta: City must stop talking about winning and play like champions – The Daily Mirror

A Citeh player actually making a reasonable statement? I don’t believe it! Finally one of our noisy neighbors is making a level-headed comment. It seems like all the talk coming from Eastlands is of their grand aspirations to win the title and how they’re now destined for greatness, but Pablo Zabaleta doesn’t seem to conform to all that talk. Zabaleta has instead told his teammates to quit talking about winning trophies and to instead actually perform like a team that deserves to lift a trophy. Frankly, I’m sick of hearing all their talk of glory when they’ve been unable to back it up on the field thus far.

Fun Fact: According to SkyBet.com, Manchester United and Real Madrid are currently joint-favorites to sign Mesut Ozil at 3/1 odds.

I didn’t get much feedback about the Stretty Stories discussion, but I have decided to change up the format slightly. The below link is now for the United News section of the forum. If you have a story you wish to comment on I encourage you to create a topic and discuss it on there. I may create topics for stories I find particularly interesting, so be on the lookout for that. Looking forward to continuing the good discussions we’ve been having.

Discuss all today’s news and rumors in the forum.

You can follow Kyle on Twitter at KDill_MUFC.

I have all the stories from tomorrow’s chip papers all conveniently compiled right here. In today’s news Sir Alex says there will be no big summer signings, Fabiano “turns down” United, Sir Alex is linked with move for Ozil, Real Madrid rejects for sale, Scholes has his eyes on the Premier League, and Joe Cole proves he loves money and not trophies.

As of late, our noisy neighbors always seem to be linked with the same targets as us. To be honest, I’m not too sure City’s “scouting” is nothing more than just reading United transfer rumors, so this daily blog should be hugely beneficial to them. Manchester City, you’re welcome.

Ferguson: United do not need signings – The Daily Telegraph

Looking for a big name signing this summer? Don’t get your hopes up. It seems we will start the season with the squad we have now. Aside from a creative midfielder, I really think we’re strong in all positions. Sir Alex seems to think even a creative midfielder isn’t necessary. If Anderson finally fulfills his potential this season, he may just be right. Maybe it has something to do with finances, or maybe he just truly believes in this squad. Only Sir Alex knows. I’m certainly very hopeful of this squad, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t slightly concerned that we may be missing something. The lack of a proven creative midfielder could prove costly.

Brown: Giggs is best player ever – The Guardian

Another fine example of the incredible respect Ryan Giggs has earned in the squad. Upon being asked who his favorite player was, Brown said, “I know it is going to sound daft this but I would have to say Giggsy.” Of course, Brown didn’t forget to mention Maradona and Pele, but it was Giggs who earned his highest praise. I don’t think there is any United fan who gets sick of the praise that Giggs gets. He certainly deserves it.

Fabiano turns down Spurs and Man United – The Daily Mail

Doesn’t there need to be an offer in order to be turned down? I haven’t read about any bid for Fabiano, just that we were “interested.” Aside from Joe Cole (we’ll get to him later), this must be a fairly slow day in the news because they’re trying to make this story bigger than it really is.

Alex lines up Ozil swoop – The Sun

It doesn’t seem to matter that Sir Alex says he’ll make no sumer signings, we’re still being linked with big name players. With a year remaining on his contract, Werder Bremen would prefer to sell rather than let him go on a free. Sir Alex is apparently a big fan of the player he calls “the ghost.” It seems Werder Bremen are looking for £12m for the talented midfielder. I was impressed with him at the World Cup, but I don’t want to get too carried away by a few good performances. However, I do think £12m would be really good value for a player who seems to have creativity in abundance.

Kaka and van der Vaart near Madrid exit – The Daily Mail

While The Sun is linking us with Ozil, The Daily Mail believes he may be on his way to Real Madrid. To clear up room in the squad, Kaka and Rafael van der Vaart may be on their way out. It is believe both are targets of Chelsea, but I doubt it will be long before we’re linked with one or both. I’m actually a big fan of van der Vaart and wouldn’t mind seeing him become a Red Devil, but it seems we won’t be making any signings this summer. Shame too, cause he’s the type of creative midfielder we need and I think we could’ve signed him for good value.

Scholes: Premier League is priority – The Daily Mirror

Paul Scholes believes reclaiming the Premier League takes priority over the Champions League. Personally, I’d much rather see United win the Premier League. Winning a record 19th Premier League title would be immensely satisfying, even more so than adding to our European success. In an ideal world, though, United would complete the Double, or…dare I say it…the Treble.

And now for a bit about our Premier League rivals…

Joe Cole joins Liverpool – The Daily Telegraph

Joe Cole has proved that it’s greed, not trophies, that drives him after signing a four-year contract with Liverpool worth £90,000 per week. Arsenal and Tottenham were both interested and would’ve been able to offer him Champions League football. I dare say that Arsenal may have even been able to offer him the chance to play for a Premier League contender. However, neither team could match his outrageous wage demands. Now he will grace the Europa League with Liverpool. And as far as the Premier League goes, Liverpool is certainly not a contender this season. From Premier League champions to a team fighting just to finish in the top four. Cole may help Liverpool return to the Champions League in 2011/12, but he could’ve played at the highest level this season. Some players still play for glory, others are playing for money.

Fun Fact: Today’s fun fact come from manutd.com’s Nick Coppack on Twitter: RT @nickcoppack Cheapest tickets for United v Liverpool matches (not incl. disabled section, which is free at OT)… At Anfield, £43. At Old Trafford, £27.

Discuss all today’s news and rumors in the forum.

You can follow Kyle on Twitter at KDill_MUFC

Ian over in our forum has put together a collaboration of events that look at determining the outcome of the Premier League title and finishing positions for Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Spurs and Europa League qualifiers Liverpool and Manchester City. Show your appreciation for a witty, humorous and insightful prediction of what could well happen on Sunday afternoon.

You can view the original thread in our forum. So make sure if you like the thread you let Ian know!

3.30pm – Richard Keys prattles on about how “anything can happen”, while they talk about Spurs’ last-gasp win over Man City on Wednesday and how it not only secured fourth place, but also gives them a sniff of third.

3.31pm – Even though they’re not relevant to the title race any more, coverage of Chelsea and Manchester United games focuses primarily on Liverpool.

3.37pm – It’s announced that Wayne Rooney’s leg has fallen off. Fergie says there’s “absolutely no chance of Waynre Rooney playing football ever again.”

3.38pm – With the Rooney announcement, Manchester United fans swarm the dressing room and in the melee Dimitar Berbatov goes missing. Rumours that he’s been bundled into a car and driven away from the ground by Manchester United fans are unconfirmed. Chelsea fans implore police to find Berbatov so he can start for United.

3.45pm – Rooney is announced in starting line-up.

3.53pm – Berbatov is returned to Old Trafford unharmed by relieved captors who heard on the radio that Rooney was starting.

4pm – Matches around the country kick-off.

4.01pm – Andy Gray sounds more cement mixer than man, as he always does on the last day of the season.

4.06pm – At Hull Rafa Benitez has retreated to the dugout briefly but returns to the sideline with a deck chair under one arm and a Lonely Planet guide to Turin in the other.

4.15pm – Stoke have spent the first fifteen minutes playing in a fashion that makes them unrecognisable from the team that got drubbed by Chelsea. They look like a proper football team for grown-ups.

4.17pm – United fans despair as the news comes through that Didier Drogba has just given Chelsea the lead. He celebrates by peeling off his shirt and revealing a tattoo of Steven Gerrard’s face that covers his entire back.

4.18pm – Tottenham and Man City, away at Burnley and West Ham respectively, are doing their damndest to look like two teams who don’t deserve to finish in the European places.

4.21pm – After 429 consecutive 3-yard passes from Arsenal, the move is capped beautifully when Brede Hangeland smashes the ball from the edge of his own penalty area and Bobby Zamora thrashes it past Polish ragamuffin Lukas Fabianski.

4.22pm – Arsene Wenger remonstrates with the fourth official for allowing Fulham to shoot the ball at the goal really quite hard indeed.

4.26pm – Hull score a hilariously offside goal to take the lead against Liverpool, and the cameras pan to get Rafa’s reaction but he hasn’t seen the offside because he was busy in a conga with Roary the Tiger, the fourth official, and a selection of Liverpool substitutes.

4.27pm – Darren Fletcher and Ryan Shawcross cause a tear in the fabric of space and time when they both go in for a 50-50 tackle two-footed and their studs fuse together.

4.34pm – Tottenham and Man City both take the lead in the space of a few minutes, and both look distinctly uncomfortable about it.

4.41pm – United go a goal down when Rory Delap, taking a throw-in from his own corner flag, sets up Ricardo Fuller who does one of those peculiar headers of his where he tries to head it one way and it goes in the exact opposite direction yet somehow still sneaks inside the post.

4.43pm – Iain Dowie looks flummoxed, or more so than usual, when Rafael Benitez starts reciting to him from an Italian phrasebook.

4.45pm – Refusing to finish the season on anything resembling a high note, Aston Villa go a goal down at home against Blackburn.

4.55pm – Alex Ferguson substitutes Dimitar Berbatov on for Michael Carrick. God help us.

4.56pm – Hope! Charles N’Zogbia is in one of his “being a footballer” moods and spoons a preposterous curler into Cech’s top corner.

5.04pm – Damn! Dimitar Berbatov smashes an audacious volley into the top corner. Unfortunately it’s his own top corner. On reflection he decides that beggars can’t be choosers and he celebrates anyway.

5.10pm – Arsenal equalise at the Emirates. A nicely worked team goal. A safe third-place finish is back on.

5.12pm – The comeback is on! As a cross floats in towards Berbatov, Wayne Rooney grabs him and throws him to the ground before heading it into the bottom corner.

5.13pm – Rafael Benitez has switched clothes with the Hull mascot and is currently wiggling his backside at the Liverpool fans. The chap who was the mascot, however, is wearing Rafa’s suit and doing a better job of inspiring the team than Benitez has in months.

5.16pm – Berbatov gets the ball and runs ’round the Stoke goalie before somehow smashing the ball against the bar from 3cm out. It hits him in the face and falls to Paul Scholes who calmly slots in the equaliser.

5.18pm – United are motoring now. Rooney passes the ball to Nani who nutmegs three Stoke defenders before knocking the ball into the air and putting United 3-2 up with an overhead backheeled chip into the far corner…. but no! The goal is ruled out for Rooney having bumped into a Stoke player. In a rage that wouldn’t look out of place on Bruce Banner, Rooney kicks the referee so hard in the knee that his metatarsal fractures, ruling him out of England’s World Cup group games.

5.22pm – Chelsea are in shock as after battering Wigan with 27 shots on target the visitors break down the field. John Terry catches a Rodallega shot with both hands and lobs it to the centre circle and then looks outraged when the referee whistles for a handball. He gets a stern telling off. Charles N’Zogbia scores from the free-kick and puts Wigan 2-1 up!

5.28pm – Carlos Tevez scores at West Ham but is booked for time-wasting when he celebrates by personally apologising to every Hammer in the ground.

5.33pm – Fulham score from a corner as a cross is nodded in. Arsene Wenger remonstrates with the fourth official for letting Fulham use their heads.

5.35pm – Oblivious to Hull having gone 2-0 up, Rafa Benitez is gleefully trying to start a “Stand Up If You Hate Fergie” chant.

5.39pm – With a minute plus injury time left and Chelsea still losing, Dimitar Berbatov’s moment finally arrives. Valencia puts an inch-perfect cross in and Berbatov controls the ball, nonchalantly flicks it over two defenders and rifles a rocket-shot into the top corner! 3-2!

5.40pm – United seal a win, and surely a fourth Premier League title, as Federico Macheda taps one in from a yard out and reacts as though he’s just scored a wondergoal. The smug-looking git.

5.41pm – Frank Lampard decides to remind England fans what they won’t be seeing this summer by pinging a shot into the top corner from 45 yards out. Just a minute or two left for Chelsea to get the winner they desperately need…

5.42pm – Arsenal, who looked comfortably third for so long, drop to fourth as in the final minute Clint Dempsey tackles one of Wenger’s WonderTots and accidentally boots him out of the stand and into the car park. A fine cross is played into the penalty area from the resulting freekick but various players leave it as they remember Arsene’s warning that heading the football is for neanderthals. It drops to Nicklas Bendtner instead who sends Spurs fans into dreamland by fluffing the shot straight at the keeper as the whistle goes while at White Hart Lane Spurs took three points courtesy of a late Peter Crouch header.

5.43pm – United’s game is over with a 4-2 win, and now all thoughts turn to Wigan. Chelsea force a corner and Titus Bramble tries to head the ball away but somehow ends up with the ball inside his shorts. As he flails around to try and remove it, he stumbles into the net, gifting Chelsea a 3-2 win and the Premier League title.

League finish: Chelsea (champions), Man United, Spurs, Arsenal, Man City, Aston Villa, Liverpool.

Having signed a new one year extension to his contract, Paul Scholes gave a masterclass today at Eastlands, showing there is much more to offer in those aging legs. His late headed winner was priceless considering the events that would unfold at White Hart Lane in the evening. Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for Scholes, who made his debut in the League Cup some sixteen years ago (scoring twice I might add), stating that he was the best player on the park. Other than getting the winner, Scholes was immense throughout the course of the game – always showing from the fullbacks to pick up and the ball and turning to switch play. Both Tevez and Adebayor ignored our number 18, who set the tempo throughout the course of the afternoon.

Scholes, who has notched up seven goals in all competitions, was clearly overjoyed by his contribution to 1-0 victory and understood how much it means to the fans:

“It’s a massive game for fans of both teams and I know how much this will mean to our fans, and I can assure you it means exactly the same to us. It’s great, obviously. To win in a Manchester derby is a big thing, whatever way you do it, and that’s three times this season where we’ve managed to score in the last minute to win games and it’s a nice feeling !”

Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for Scholes and highlighted his natural ability to arrive at the right time in the penalty area:

“I think he was the man of the match to my mind. I thought he was absolutely fantastic. He’s such a skilful player, he was wonderful today. I was prepared to put him forward a little bit, knowing that there’s no-one better at ghosting into the penalty box and getting into the good positions. There was no-one near him. It was a free header and he took it very well.”

Scholes’ overall contribution was extremely impressive with a 92% pass completion rate. He out passed Fletch (43), Gibson (27), De Jong (30) and Barry (35). Check out his passing range (Both long and short passes throughout the game) and his ability to get around the pitch to offer support both defensively and as a creative force:

I mentioned that he was impressive as a creative force but I thought defensively he was sublime all game. People joke about his rash tackling over the years. Whilst this is true, I’ve always thought that his positioning to get behind the ball and apply pressure was/is top class – which is fully demonstrated in the screen shot below:

We all know what a class act Paul Scholes is and what a servant he has been to the club over the years. His performance today demonstrates that he can still control the pace and tempo of an important game. He might not be able to get about the pitch as he did in his heyday, however he has evolved his game so that he can continue to play at the top level, just as Giggs has done. I can’t stress how impressed I was with him all game today and his goal epitomised what he is all about – movement, right place at the right time and goals.