Vital Win

    Yesterdays match against Blackburn left me feeling relieved to say the least. United needed that win to increase the distance between City and themselves in the league. It was not that United played particularly bad. I just felt that their resources could have been used more wisely. If I am right and Ferguson is working to implement a faster style of play (sadly this is why Berba has been left out of the squad so often of late), then I feel like his formation yesterday did not achieve this so well.
    First lets start with the forward. I like Hernandez quite a bit and this is nothing against his quality. However, he is not the  type of striker to played up top by himself. I don't feel he can create space for himself or hold posession untill the wings provide support. He is great in the box and can make wonderful penetrating runs! Still, he has seemed less effective in a lone striker position. Players like Rooney or Berba are better suited for this role. They are able to controll the pace of the game better. They can create space for themselves as well as find and create opportunities.
    There were times when this formation was successful. During the first half we created a few chances where I thought we could have scored but we didn't. I really don't like when Rooney is played out wide. I know he can play the position but, he is one of our best players and needs more time on the ball. He is better suited in a central attacking position. When played out wide he is isolated and has too much trouble getting involved. Valencia on the other side was fantastic as usual. He is one of our most consistent players as long as he is fit. Hopefully he will continue this form to the end of the season.
    David De Gea has continued his good form with some fantastic saves. It was only a few months ago that he struggled against the Rovers and now he is making game changing saves. His improvement has been truly impressive. Johnny Evans and Rafael looked good at the back and had no problem helping move the ball up towards goal. As soon as Fergie started making changes our team began to look better. Once Giggs was on the field everything became more organized. Giggs does not even have to be involved in the play. His mere presence inspires great soccer.
      Even though this was not one of our better performances, Valencia's goal was long coming. Some may call the circumstances of this match very fortuitous but I would disagree. Often, great teams create their own luck. While this may not have been a vintage United performance, the side worked very hard to get a result. The possession stats alone show that United were determined to press toward goal. They continually worked their way into the oposing half and won corner after corner. in this type of situation eventually you are going to earn yourself a goal. It may not be from beautiful play but it will come. Young's goal minutes after being subbed on was superb. I personally would have liked to see him start but as with all my complaints about this match I am sure Fergie has his reasons.
    United showed patience and determination in yesterday's match and it paid off. This victory was paramount in the title race and I hope we can continue to see results like this to the end of the season. If we do there is no reason why United will not be lifting a 20th title this May! Lets hope Arsenal sticks it to city next week!

Glory Glory Man United

-C