It has been a solid few weeks for Manchester United Football Club with the Red Devil’s season going from all but finished to what looks like being another title contending one. Last weekend, United got off to an absolute flyer against struggling Fulham, scoring three goals in the opening 30 minutes to all but seal victory against the struggling Cottagers. Antonio Valencia, Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney scored the goals, all of which were thanks partially to some suspect decisions from the assistant referee.
That game was followed up by a rather dissapponting draw against an average Real Sociedad side. Despite creating enough chances to comfortably win the game, David Moyes side managed to draw a blank after missing some gilt-edged chances. Javier Hernandez blazed over the bar from inside 6 yards before Van Persie struck the post twice; firstly from an acute angle, then from a penalty following an extremely fortuitous decision after more Ashley Young theatrics. Marouane Fellaini got sent off in the dying minutes to add to the disappointment.
After the poor showing in midweek, United had to take on the league leaders Arsenal at Old Trafford. It was the biggest game so far for United under David Moyes’ leadership and they didn’t disappoint. Robin Van Persie scored a first half header from a Wayne Rooney corner to sink his old side and earn a valuable victory, taking United up to 5th in the league; just five points off the league leaders. It was a scrappy victory, but one that you need if you are going to win the title. Wayne Rooney was fantastic, covering every blade of grass on the pitch and playing passes reminiscent of club legend Paul Scholes.
If Moyes’ men can continue in the same vein as the past few weeks until after Christmas, a serious title challenge is on the cards. Arsenal, currently at the summit, have poor strength in depth in certain areas of the pitch and a questionable back line should injuries or suspensions cause disruption to their first-choice partnership. Liverpool, currently in second, have a very weak midfield and even weaker full backs. They also rely too heavily on Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge to bail them out of trouble. Man City and Chelsea have plenty of talent in all positions, great strength in depth, but are both groups of individuals and, like United still, neither side knows their best eleven yet.
Although overall the United squad is not as good as either of theirs; it is important to remember that it is largely the same group who won the league by 10 points last year, despite the lack of Legendary manager and ginger-haired midfielder.
This could still be our season. Again……
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