Posted:
Mon Sep 15, 2008 10:26 am
by stmichael
Still buzzing after the weekend to be honest. As I said before the game started, I had a good feeling about the game if Gerrard and Torres didn't play because that meant that other people would probably step up to the plate. Alonso for example seems to always take more responsibility and raise his game went Gerrard isn't in the side, for example Everton in 2005/6 when Gerrard got sent off or Juventus away in the CL when Gerrard was injured.
The first 15 minutes aside I though we completely dominated the game. The goal was a really poor one to concede but after that, apart from a Tevez half chance and the Giggs volley, United created nothing. After seeing Rooney destroy Croatia midweek I was personally delighted (and baffled) to see Rooney playing wide right.
Anyway back to us. Mascherano was absolutely immense as usual, Kuyt had his best game in ages (hardly a coincidence that it came playing in his proper position), Riera showed a lot of promise in glimpses, although he'll need to get used to the physical side of the English game. Keane also had his best game for us so far.
So all in all a great day but not getting too carried away. We had 10 points after 4 games last season then proceeded to throw it all away with poor team selection and performances in the next two games. We need to make sure that Stoke next week is not another Birmingham from last year. Play our strongest team and blitz them. The vital first team players can then be rested against Crewe in the midweek game.
Posted:
Mon Sep 15, 2008 10:49 am
by devaney
It must have been said - JUST FOR ONCE AGAINST UNITED WE HAD THE LUCK - still laughing at the own goal and the quality of Ryan's grounded shot! Just wish it had been Gary Neville's shin it rebounded off!! What the fk was that prat doing in Liverpool's directors box? I wouldn't allow him in the ground but I am delighted he got to see the game! Fully deserved to win though and made them look very poor. MASCHERANO WAS SPECIAL IN THE SECOND HALF! Real signs of life from Babbel as well.