What a difference a year makes!
The last time Liverpool travelled to United, they beat the hosts – who were then being managed by David Moyes – emphatically. The result was 3-0, with a certain Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge tormenting the hosts for fun. The Moyes era ended in May and the signs of Louis van Gaal’s work is being seen. De Gea was sensational again
The Spanish keeper is easily among the top three stoppers in the world at this moment. The former Atletico Madrid man kept United in the game, when the Reds started the game like a train on fire. De Gea also put up a one-man show, to shut out substitute Mario Balotelli. Another outstanding display. United’s efficiency shines through
Brendan Rodgers set about dazzling United from kick-off, but in the end, it was all huff and puff. As soon as Antonio Valencia set up Wayne Rooney for their first goal – from their first shot at target – you could feel the zeal leave Liverpool players. More huff and puff, then Mata – albeit controversially – doubles the lead. Curtains fall. Robin van Persie’s easy finish just added gloss. You’re getting sacked in the morning
If you are Rodgers, you might want to skip checking your e-mails or opening the door for a postman in the coming days. As Liverpool meekly surrendered at Old Trafford today, the fans inside chorused “you are getting sacked in the morning”. He might not get that notice tomorrow or next, but you get a feeling the Northern Irishman’s days are numbered. Wingbacks fly
United fans almost swore there will never be a day when Valencia and Ashley Young will contribute anything meaningful in a football match. That argument was put to bed this afternoon. Valencia eased past two Liverpool players to set up Rooney’s opener and Young’s wicked cross was headed in by Mata before half time. That was the match basically ended as a contest. No, Sterling, you’re not world class
Let’s move quickly away from how the English media overhypes and exalts their players. Every new teenager with a few tricks and pace to burn is suddenly compared to Ronaldo or Messi. Sterling had a dreadful display today – and he has not been in form in a while now. However, when presented with an opportunity, the winger failed to score twice in the first half. His days was summed up in the second half, when he pounced on a loose ball. With only the keeper to beat, Sterling shot tamely at De Gea. Real Madrid’s top shots might want to delete his agent’s number for now. Back in the title race?
Well, whisper this carefully. But with six wins in their last six matches, confidence is returning to United and they are keeping pace nicely with neighbours City and Chelsea. The busy December period will definitely give us a hint of if Van Gaal’s men have finally found consistency.
‘Ifreke Inyang tweets via @Ifreke
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