Sep 20
Manchester United vs Manchester City: Preview
This has to be the most eagerly anticipated derby in years, nay decades. Well certainly in my lifetime anyway.
City’s start to the season, culminating in the 4-2 defeat of Arsenal last weekend, will have surely seen United supporters with even the deepest of hatred towards our city neighbours at least acknowledge that they have, thus far, looked impressive.
Many quarters are even rather prematurely suggesting that Mark Hughes’ side are ready to mount an assault on the top four and even a serious title challenge. Well with all due respect, it’s one thing struggling past the likes of Blackburn, Wolves and Portsmouth but it’s quite another coming to Old Trafford and getting a positive result.
The record books and any chat of previous meetings shouldn’t really count for much on Sunday but here’s a brief overview for the statistically conscious among us. In total, United have won 61 of the 151 Manchester derbies that have taken place including a double victory in the league last season. If you needed even more reason for optimism, City have only won one of their 12 trips to Old Trafford since the inception of the Premier League.
Following the midweek triumph over Besiktas there are no fresh injury worries although Rio Ferdinand remains a massive doubt having missed the game in Istanbul. That will mean that Jonny Evans will continue to develop his partnership with Nemanja Vidic at the heart of the defence in front of the ever-improving Ben Foster.
At full-back Sir Alex will look to Patrice Evra and probably John O’Shea while Nani and Antonio Valencia should start on either flank having performed well, if not spectacularly, on Tuesday evening.
Having been rested for the Champions League opener, Darren Fletcher will come back into the side and with Paul Scholes suspended, Anderson or Ryan Giggs should get the nod alongside the Scot with Michael Carrick missing out.
Now a Ferguson line-up wouldn’t be complete without some sort of tactical surprise although this United fan is sincerely hoping that the manager opts for a 4-4-2 formation with Dimitar Berbatov and Wayne Rooney spearheading the attack.
City’s attacking problems have been well documented heading into Sunday’s encounter, with Craig Bellamy the only fully fit and available striker at their disposal. Carlos Tevez may well receive a tirade of abuse if he plays but Ferguson believes that the absence of Emmanuel Adebayor, who is serving a three-match suspension for his Arsenal antics, is far more significant.
“I am not bothered whether Tevez plays or not – Manchester City’s best player won’t be playing,” the United boss said.
“Adebayor is their star player, there is no question about that. He has scored in every game so far.”
Ferguson went on to claim that City behaved in an “arrogant and cocky” manner by unveiling their now rather infamous Tevez ‘Welcome to Manchester’ poster and the Scot insisted that he sees fixtures against Liverpool as the true derby matches.
“To me, Liverpool has always been the derby,” he added.
“It is because of the history. My aim was always to do well against them. It is hard for me to think any other way.”
Personally I would get hold of a replica of the poster and hang it in the dressing room before kick-off. If the player’s are looking for an added incentive to be fired up for the derby then that would surely provide it.
Anyway, back to previewing the game and there’s no doubt that Hughes’ side will fancy their chances at Old Trafford and probably more than they ever have done before. Given the millions they have spent on fresh talent in the summer and the fact they are currently unbeaten in the Premier League adds fabrication to that notion but, if you can excuse the cliché, it’s all about what happens on the pitch come Sunday.
The United squad certainly have nothing to fear themselves and should be full of confidence. Having put a Tottenham side, who were riding the crest of a wave in a similar vein to City, to the sword last weekend, they continued to ridicule the niggling suggestions that there isn’t life after Ronaldo.
Without wanting to tempt fate, it is off the back of that hugely encouraging performance at White Hart Lane coupled with a burning desire to put City in their place that will hopefully see United home to a comfortable and comprehensive victory.
Altogether now: This is how it feels to be City…
Prediction: 2-0 United
Related items from Red Rants:- Man Utd v Everton: Preview
- If you didn’t already know…
- Manchester United 2006/2007 Season Review
- Betting Preview: City favourites to beat United?
- Man Utd v Man City: Preview
Tags: Game Preview
September 20th, 2009 at 3:39
Records are always broken that makes statistics. Statistics count for nothing though when 11 v 11 enter the field of play tomorrow there is a game to be won, drawn or lost. Be interesting to set up a new modern day sta profile though for fun. Good luck to United tomorrow I do not post in malice just in reality, City will be a player from here on in which is good for Manchester anf football in general. I would be a proud mancunian to see both teams rival the likes on Milan on a world wide scale.
September 20th, 2009 at 3:49
I have to think that this game will have a much deeper impact on the factions that be than ever before!
A Manchester derby was always one that got you into high spirits, but the quality of the game and the intensity could let you down some. Kind of like Chelsea v Fulham – a real good local match-up with a few bragging rights up for grabs, but ultimately unsatisfying.
After all it was always the heavy favorite against the underdog. If we beat citeh, then oh well, busines as usual. If they caused an upset, it would give them something to squalk about down the local, for a couple of weeks.
But lo and behold, we could have a rival that will spend its way to the top 4. They signed Tevez, in an attempt to show us up because of their spending power, and have generally started to stick the needle in any sore we might have.
SAF has responded, in fine form I might add, with a barrage of snarky comments aimed precisely at the heart of our new nieghbors, and there reckless spending!!
Well they have Robinho, Santa Cruz, and probaly Tevez injured, and the astonishing Adeboy stamping his way into a suspension. It really just leaves their major defensive signings to stuff SAF’s words back doen his throat!!
SAF knows this and doesn’t give a flying f*** about them. His words are for us, the general public and more importantly our players. He understands that the pendulum has a chance to swing in the other direction and is making it very clear that this one needs to be taken seriously.
Well I’m more keyed for this one than any derby game I can remember. I want to remove Sparky’s head and shit goals down his throat!
If Tevez plays, I want Vidic to implant his footprint on his knee. and more than anything I want SAF to snub Sparky’s handshake at the end of the game. This is way to deal with this Mancurian uprising!! 
September 20th, 2009 at 4:05
Even in my life time as a United supporter this is the biggest derby. I can’t really relate myself to what might be happening in Manchester but I can really imagine as a Man UTD supporter who is not from Manchester.
As far as match is concerned I really hope that Fergie will show some guts and would not go for that so called tacticle part of his management. And I badly hope we will play simple 4-4-2 with midfield partnership of Ando and Fletch otherwise pretty much the same squad that you have picked up. Other thing is if Wes Brown is fit to play then I would like to take chance with Wes on the Right Back position more so because of his No Nonsense attitude and Hard game style which will prove pretty imp in today’s game.
I hope we are going for a win. We are playing our best brand and we are showing that ‘Small Club with Small Mentality’ who is the boss in football.
PS: I don’t know why but I have a feeling that it may end up in Draw (for all its anticipation), as Mark Hughes will be happy if at the end of the day City is taking the point away from OT and I don’t think given Chelsea’s form we can afford to loose any more matches so we may even go with ‘Play Safe’ approach…
I would be very sad if game goes this way……
September 20th, 2009 at 4:33
@Redrich: I am too excited to read your long comment.
Prediction/Truth: 3-1 United. Rooney, Berbatov, Owen with Foster gifting City their only goal. Red card for Bellamy in 2nd half. That’s a fact!
September 20th, 2009 at 4:35
Eid Mubarak to all my Muslim brothers and sisters.
September 20th, 2009 at 4:44
@[OPTI]Madschester United:
Lots of cards mate, for sure!!
I’m going for a come from behind, 2-1 victory!!
September 20th, 2009 at 4:46
This is, as everyone has already said, the biggest Manchester derby in decades. I could really care less whether City’s “big” stars are playing or not, because we will annihilate them anyway. Our players are more motivated than ever shut these City bandwagoners up.
Starting XI:
Foster
Brown Rio Vida Evra
Park Fletch Ando Giggs
Rooney Berba
3-1 United!! Rooney hattrick, of course.
September 20th, 2009 at 6:19
@Redrich:
What is all this about City’s spending???! Surely United have spent as much as City over the last 10 years??! Correct me if I’m wrong! Fergie is shitting it, never before has he felt the need to comment on City or have sly digs at Hughes and Co and it’s brill. Fair play to City and Spurs sticking it to the so called ‘big 4′. This is the biggest Manchester derby in over 20 years. I reckon City will leave Old Twatford with at least a draw. CTID
September 20th, 2009 at 6:24
@Lars:
Lets be honest… Foster is dodgy at best and aren’t Ferdinand and Anderson ruled out?? I hope Fergie plays (past it) Giggs and (lazy fooker) Berba and also twat Neville… For the first time in decades, City’s midfield is better than Uniteds… City have one of the best keepers in the prem and first choice back four, our midfield is better and we WILL get goals. City will make their mark!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 6:29
I wrote this as a reply on the previous thread but as it refers to this game I will include it again.
I often disagree with Fergie and I’ll even get mad at him but the fact is I love the man and I would personally beat the shit out of somebody that booed him if I were drunk enough at a game. He’s not perfect and he deserves to be criticized and questioned but he deserves loyalty and respect and you know, after twenty fantastic years, he deserves our love and adoration too. So I sincerely hope that United fans send Carlito straight to Hell. Now lets kick the Hell out fo Shitty and send them a message that they are way below us in the pecking order.
September 20th, 2009 at 6:31
I am totally dissed over the fact I will miss this game live due to having to work a sports collectibles convention tomorrow. So none of you will hear from me for a while. For some that will be a good thing, for others, I ask for patience. Hopefully it will be a day of positives.
September 20th, 2009 at 7:01
Fergie should aware of Tevez, as happened with Arshavin last game with Arsenal, he could be the joker.
September 20th, 2009 at 7:01
@Grognard: Carlito is in hell, he’s at CITEH!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 7:03
@Grognard: Mate, I love the armpit. It shows the proper respect to our cross town cousins!!
September 20th, 2009 at 7:35
@[OPTI]Madschester United: Eid Mubarak! I’m going to have to skip the Eid prayer put on by the Turkish community in favor of the more multicultural one a few hours later so I can catch the game live. Pretty good trade-off I’d say, but my relatives don’t seem to understand…
September 20th, 2009 at 8:22
@Seaninho: I think you should fuck off to other side of town mate, before I really correct your wrongs!!
September 20th, 2009 at 8:23
Berba & Rooney up front please!
September 20th, 2009 at 8:46
I cant remember I was so fired up for a derby… Last season we needed to beat them to win the title, the season before it was derby day at the Munich Memorial when we fucked up, before that we won the title at their ground… But it still meant fuck compared to today!
Ive always hated City, but now the hate has grown even bigger. Their spending isnt the worst part, its that they think that they actually are somebody because they have money!!! 
Jeez! Buying rejects from all parts of the world doesnt make you special, and I hope we sincerely prove that today. The poster, the interviews, the arrogant behavior of their players, their brainless antics and their little Argie cunt, little miss Carla Tevez, the ugliest person you will ever see… All the right recipes for the perfect derby, the most anticipated in years! It may not be pretty, it may not be many goals, and it may not the the game of the season— But my God is it gonna be sweet if we beat them!!! 
COME ON UNITED!!! The ONLY real football team in Manchester!
September 20th, 2009 at 8:51
Team I hope plays:
Foster
Brown Evans Vidic Evra
Valencia Fletcher Anderson Nani
Rooney Berbatov
I want us to attack Shitty! Its at Old Trafford, and I dont want to see a coward approach where we try to block our own weaknesses rather than exposing the oppositions. Please Fergie, bring the game to them and crush those fucking bitter twats!
Team I expect to start…
Foster
Oshea Evans Vidic Evra
Park Fletcher Giggs Nani
Rooney Berbatov
Score prediction: 2-0 to Manchester UNITED! Wazza to score the first, then Berba clinching it before running and screaming in the face of Tevez “THAT IS WHY IS STARTED YOU FUCKING CUNT!!!”
September 20th, 2009 at 8:58
My God, do I hope Carlos Tevez starts! I was at the Arsenal game in May, when we won the Premier League. I shouted “Fergie, Fergie sign him up” during the game, because I actually liked Tevez. But when Fergie was holding his speech, and people around me started to shout the Sign him up shit, I was shocked. Alright, Tevez had helped us, but we should not have behaved that way. It was disrespectful towards the manager, and looking abck I bet the fans who did shout that regret it because we all hate Tevez now. Its like telling Fergie to fuck off if he didnt buy Robbie Fowler!
That guy is a cunt, a twat, a dickhead, a motherfucking imbissal of an abysmal whore! I hate him to guts right now, because no-one tells Fergie to fuck off in the press. Nobody! They know they will suffer if they do, but unfortunately for Tevez he forgot that and fucked it up with all the fans. He is the biggest traitor you will ever see, and I bet he never had a chance to join Liverpool because, guess what? THEY DONT HAVE ANY MONEY! 
He picked City because of money, and even though there are many footballers who would do that these days going to your biggest city rival is unacceptable. At least if you dont do it in an approriate manner. He didnt… So I hope he plays, and the fans help him figure out how we REALLY feel about him! 
Bring on the bitters…
September 20th, 2009 at 9:02
@Seaninho: Only Real Madrid spent more than your fucking twats this summer. And they spent enough to buy a whole country! Then we remember the transfer deadline day in 2008 when you went mental and showed that you have no idea how to handle that amount of money and tried to buy David Villa, Gomez and Robinho at the same time. Berba too! Then you sell Dunne without giving him any reason for it. You loyal captain for many years, you sell him because “he isnt part of your plans anymore”. Adebayor is a fucking cunt. Carla Tevez is a twat. Robinho is only in it for the money. Barry is a lying bitch. Then its just the other players you have that I just cant stand… Bellamy, Toure and Lescott are just some of them. So please fuck off!(Your club
)
September 20th, 2009 at 9:21
@Superman: supertwat, we are in europe. You are not.
If you think gareth barry will get you into europe…
September 20th, 2009 at 9:40
Whose that TWAT from Argentina? Whose that money grabbing WHORE? His name is Carlos Tevez and he hasn’t got a brain, and he wont be winning TROPHIES ANYMORE!
September 20th, 2009 at 9:51
@Superman: Foster is young, and to judge from his last games he can be a match winner. Won us many points he has! Giggs is still a great player, and even though Berbatov us lazy, he is better than those fucking twats you guys got up front. Tevez, Bellamy, Benjani?!
And you got a better midfield than us?
Barry < Fletcher
De Jong < Hargreaves
Ireland < Anderson
Johnson < Giggs
Kompany < Carrick
Nani <<< Petrov
September 20th, 2009 at 9:51
Loving it, totally up for this one. Have to think it means more to us that the bunch of mercenaries from across town. Other than SWP and Micah Richards, none of the rest even get it.
One thing no one has mentioned is the Shay Given effect. The man is superhuman against us. But let’s hope he’ll get his obligatory 12 outstanding saves after 2 or 3 slip by.
Really hope Fergie goes for this. If we can win it by a margin it should just about f*ck their season, and put them in a ‘well next year we’ll be stronger’ mentality. But I worry he’s going to go negative and we’ll struggle out a 1-1.
Owen to score…
September 20th, 2009 at 9:55
Sorry should be:
“whose that TWAT from Argentina? Whose that money grabbing WHORE? Carlos Tevez is his name and he hasn’t got a brain and he wont be winning TROPHIES ANYMORE”
expect to hear that today!
September 20th, 2009 at 9:57
@Footy4Eddy: Nani >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Petrov…
September 20th, 2009 at 10:05
Guess it’s controversial, but as of today I’d definitely have Ireland over Anderson. Potential is great and all…but Ireland is class (and a Red fan)
September 20th, 2009 at 10:13
@Beachryan: A big fish in a small pond…
September 20th, 2009 at 10:57
@ Beachy, No doubting it, Ireland is a class player, he is their engine. But i’m sure Fletcher/Anderson will stifle him today!
September 20th, 2009 at 11:17
yeah 4get ireland, we’l keep him quiet im sure of it.
I think we should play Ando/ Fletch/ Carick together….has everyone forgotten how good these 3 played together at the end of last season??? by far our best midfield combination.
Id put Nani in there too with Roon and Berb up top.
Only guy im worried about is Micah Richards 2b honest. the guy is a monster….it will be interesting to see is nani or valencia can have the beating of him
September 20th, 2009 at 12:37
If Giggs scores today he will have reached a milestone. 150 goals for Manchester United, and 100 goals in the Premier League. Destined to happen?
September 20th, 2009 at 12:39
foster
o’shea vida ferdinand evra
fletch anderson giggs park
rooney berbatov
given
richards toure lescott bridge
dejong barry
swp ireland bellamy
tevez
September 20th, 2009 at 12:40
2 defensive midfielders for them, a strange midfield for us.. park and giggs wide? too defensive, invites pressure. wheres attack attack attack?!
September 20th, 2009 at 12:45
@Traverse: Real team?!
September 20th, 2009 at 12:50
@Footy4Eddy: 100%. MUTV.
September 20th, 2009 at 12:55
@Traverse: Aiaiai…
Oh well, Anderson, Fletcher and Rooney start. From the look of that team, we wont be attacking on the wings… More like through the centre. Anderson is gonna be incredibly vital today! I expect Fletch to do the hard work defensivly, Park to help him out on the wings and Giggs to track back but still attack to some effect. But lately he cuts inside more often than trying to pick out a cross. Defensivly we look solid, with Rio starting. Now I just hope that Vidic fucks that Argentinian twat up, down, in, out and sideways!
In attack, expect Anderson and Rooney to create wonders!
I hope so…
September 20th, 2009 at 12:56
Why isn’t NANI playing?!!
September 20th, 2009 at 12:58
tevez i hope vidic runs you over~.
September 20th, 2009 at 12:58
“Tevez has shrugged off the effects of a knee injury to take his place in City’s starting line-up in the most eagerly anticipated derby-day showdown for years. Tevez had been a major doubt after suffering the problem on international duty with Argentina earlier this month. But, with four-goal Emmanuel Adebayor suspended and record signing Robinho out with an ankle problem, Tevez’s presence is a boost for the high-flying Blues, who are looking to extend their 100% start to the season. Tevez scored for United against City last season, then raced to the dug-out, ears cupped and demanding the Red Devils board listen to chants demanding they “Sign him up”. Instead, Tevez snubbed their approach and joined City instead, further fuelling flames already ignited by the Eastlands outfit’s summer spending spree.”
WHO`S THAT TWAT FROM ARGENTINA!
WHO`S THAT MONEY GRABBING WHORE!
CARLOS TEVEZ IS HIS NAME
AND HE HASNT GOT A BRAIN
AND HE WONT BE WINNING TROPHIES ANYMORE!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 12:59
Looks like a -
Rooney Berba
Giggs Anderson Park
Fletcher
Decent enough I suppose but for this to work, Ando needs to pull his socks up. Come on United!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:00
@Sir Red: Because Fergie wants him rested for the last 30 minutes, when Richards is tired. The man is a monster, and Nani wont be able to do much if they are equally fit. Nani is there to expose his tireness in the last half hour…
September 20th, 2009 at 13:06
Interesting lineup..wonder if Giggs will be out wide, or if we’ll be 433. I fear that we can’t win the central midfield battle, so should be using wings, but clearly Fergie doesn’t agree!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:13
@Footy4Eddy: Heh, lets hope you’re right.
Oh, does anybody have a link to the game?
September 20th, 2009 at 13:27
I’m close to tears. On Sky Sports they were showing Ronaldo’s tricks and free kicks to the tune with the lyrics “I’ll be missing you”
Interesting tactics. Fergie seems to think a flat 4-4-2 will have the same effect as it had in the Tottenham goal. Im glad he dropped Carrick. We have a nice gritty midfield that will boss the game and with Rooney and Berbatov we have two potential matchwinners. Still I wish we had played Nani
September 20th, 2009 at 13:31
lol the look on tevez’s face when he got instantly booed as soon as he stepped on to the pitch..priceless
September 20th, 2009 at 13:31
oh my what a warm welcome to tevez~~~
September 20th, 2009 at 13:32
@ROOOOONEY: Lovely wasnt it!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:33
COME ON UNITED!!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:36
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS!!!!
ROOOOOOOOOOOOONNNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEYYYYYYYY!
HAVE THAT CITY SCUM!!!!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:37
well that was quick
September 20th, 2009 at 13:37
ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONEY
He has turned into a goal machine this season!!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:44
hahaha where will the goals come from? hahahaha
September 20th, 2009 at 13:49
I think I must be dreaming, because I swear I just saw Berbatov shoot from outside the box!
Oh and… ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONEY
September 20th, 2009 at 13:49
oooooooooooooo Berba!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:50
Bloody hell. FOSTER you f’ing idiot.
September 20th, 2009 at 13:50
Foster rants incoming…
September 20th, 2009 at 13:51
THIS is why we need a top quality keeper because we cannot afford a keeper who is a LIABILITY
September 20th, 2009 at 13:51
OH FUCK OFF FOSTER!!!!
WHERE THE FUCK IS VDS WHEN YOU NEED HIM!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:52
That wasnt fosters fault!it wasnt it was every fucking other player…this fuck needs to go…fucking cunt is shit
September 20th, 2009 at 13:52
roony should have kicked their keeper like teves did foster
September 20th, 2009 at 13:54
That wasnt Ben fucking foster’s fault…oh no…it was every other United player who was at fault…
September 20th, 2009 at 13:55
And yet ppl still believe he is any good…haha fucking idiots!
September 20th, 2009 at 13:56
The worst part of it was that until that stupid error by Foster we were all over them. Now they have a ray of hope and are back in the game and Tevez got a bloody assist
September 20th, 2009 at 13:56
as usual foster fucks up…even pig doesnt make these kind of howlers
September 20th, 2009 at 13:57
foster the fuckin jackass. thats to all those who say foster is england n united number one. fuck him, that stupid c***
September 20th, 2009 at 13:59
I like foster, but by god that was the last thing we needed. Let the scum into the game unnecesarily!
September 20th, 2009 at 14:01
well done ben foster! who the fuck said it wasnt fosters fault?
stupid mofo was tryin to be ronaldo
September 20th, 2009 at 14:09
and we have a c*** referee to boot
September 20th, 2009 at 14:15
does park know he is playing a football match?
September 20th, 2009 at 14:17
@ROOOOONEY:
Does foster know he is a goalie, not a circus monkey?
September 20th, 2009 at 14:18
fuck we r playin like sorry fuckers now
September 20th, 2009 at 14:18
Oh fucking hell.
T***z nearly scores.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:23
HT
Started extremely well, Gifted them a goal, as hard as it is to say, the scummy bastards are on top.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:25
Park off, Nani on! Our midfield is non-existent, we are reduced to pumping long balls forward!
September 20th, 2009 at 14:26
Foster, foster, foster…Might as well have been an own goal.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:27
We’ve played poor for the majority of the half, that cant be blamed on foster.
The goal however, was due to him not booting the ball, he showed to much confidence. Rio was also had a part to play, but less so then foster.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:27
I think we’ve done quite well playing with 9 men. I’m not sure who these ‘Park’ and ‘Giggs’players are, but I’ve not seen them today.
Foster seriously botched that. A bit unfortunate it didn’t quite reach him, but should have just belted into touch. That’s probably his chance gone, I’m partly gutted about that, but he’s made 3 mistakes now. I do think he gets overly criticised, but that one is on him and him alone. Good finish from Barry though.
City might be the best counter-attacking team in the league from what I’ve seen of them. Strong back 4, De Jong and Barry are quality and the front 3 break at real pace, with Ireland following up Lampard-like for scraps. Anytime Evra gets caught up field we’re screwed, because we don’t have the pace to stop SWP.
Still have no idea what Anderson was booked for, but he and Vida are treading dangerous territory – card happy ref out there.
We’ve been outplayed.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:28
@Lars: Hear Hear. It really was, we werent the same after that happened.
Fergie Pleeeeeeeeease sort this out.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:28
Man, started so well and then its straight downhill from there on. Thank god Tevez missed that one at the end !!! Hughes will get a fucking orgasm if Tevez scores.
And where are the Foster fans??? Before the COmmunity Shield, i said Foster is not good enough yet. The season is not even 2 months old after that and he has 2 or 3 blunders already. WTF was he doing !!!! This is the United GK we are talking about !
And this is supposedly our best team and City is dominating us! Cant imaging what will happen in CL – dont think we have any chance in CL this year. we still need someone strong in CM and a striker! After City scored, the whole team seems completely lost.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:32
Yeah, all for blaming Foster for the goal, but the lack of posession, no shots on target in 40 minutes and general poor play can’t be pinned on our goalkeeper.
Are city better than us? That should be all the f*cking motivation the boys need at the half.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:35
man city totally dominated possession and their ball possession was 55%.united i think need to up the tempo and put some pressure on city and bring nani on for 2nd half.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:35
id put nani and valencia on. we’d win comfortably
September 20th, 2009 at 14:36
It is our usual big game strategy. We come out all guns blazing playing at a high tempo and dominating the game. But then the opposition get a goal, our tempo drops and they get back into the game. Happens all the f’ing time.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:38
we should concentrate on attacking on the wings. The central stuff aint working.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:38
COME ON UNITED!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 14:41
HES FUCKING WORLD CLASS AND HIS NAME IS DARREN FLETCHER!
September 20th, 2009 at 14:42
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSS!
FLETCHER!!!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 14:44
Totally agree Dan. Our best midfielder is Darren Fletcher (assuming Hargreaves never comes back).
And there is a strong argument that Giggs is our second best midfielder because he is the only midfielder we have who actually provides any assists and creativity!
September 20th, 2009 at 14:45
NOT AGAINNNN!!!!!
AAAAARGGGGHH!
September 20th, 2009 at 14:45
Defence should have closed him down.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:47
@Dan:
Which idiot passed the ball back to them that lead to their goal??
September 20th, 2009 at 14:49
@Vivek: Right, so fosters shit when he doesnt clear the ball, and fosters shit when he does
Right now, the only idiot i see is you.
September 20th, 2009 at 14:53
@Dan:
Get lost mate….I was talking abt Evra whose header back lead to their goal….u can keep supporting that bumbling loser foster…
September 20th, 2009 at 14:55
one of these chances must go in
September 20th, 2009 at 14:58
Why did we bring on Valencia? He is such a limited player. Nani is twice the winger he is
September 20th, 2009 at 14:59
fucking hell Berba! A bit of direction needed there!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:00
free header…for a tall guy, berba has poor heading ability
September 20th, 2009 at 15:01
WHY THE FUCK CANT WE CONVERT!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:01
DAMMMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNnnnnnn
September 20th, 2009 at 15:03
Damn wonderful skill from Giggs. When he rolls back the years he is unplayable against
Im glad Berbatov is getting some shots on target but I can’t help feeling Ronaldo would have scored both those headers
September 20th, 2009 at 15:03
FUCKING SHAY GIVEN!!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:03
Damn, you swap our keepers around and we’d be running away with this game
September 20th, 2009 at 15:05
@colver:
Ronaldo would have had a ht-trick by now…..
September 20th, 2009 at 15:05
By god how have we not scored.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:08
Mickey Owen to come on??
By the Heavens we need some scoring instinct up front
September 20th, 2009 at 15:10
Berba Off
Owen On
Berba did well, but had several chances to win the game, well done lad
Come on Owen!
COME ON UNITED!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:13
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS!!!!
FLETCHER AGAIN!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:13
FLETCHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:14
our 30 mill pound striker needs to take heading lessons from our very own homegrown King Fletcher
September 20th, 2009 at 15:15
DARREN FLETCHER!!!!!
FOOTBALL GENIUS!!!!!!!
FUCKING EAT IT CITY SCUM!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:23
this is suicide..
September 20th, 2009 at 15:24
What’s the bloody score. I have no access to the game right now
September 20th, 2009 at 15:24
Talk about foster all you want, we drew this game because of ferdinand.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:25
Oh my god.
why
why
why
why
why
why
why
why
why
why
September 20th, 2009 at 15:26
Actually I think Foster went to ground too quickly on the final goal. If he covers the near post properly Bellamy doesn’t score. Of course Rio made the initial mistake that led to the goal.
Fact is our defence is sloppy period. It is going to cost us over and over again
September 20th, 2009 at 15:26
@Dan:
He still got beat at the near post….
September 20th, 2009 at 15:29
OWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!
In the starting XI next week for sure!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:30
OH WHAT THE FUCK
September 20th, 2009 at 15:30
i fucking came.
MICKEY OWEN IS A RED!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:31
I hate the fucking scouser…..but no more…he is finally a true red….
September 20th, 2009 at 15:31
FUCK ME WOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
September 20th, 2009 at 15:31
what a match! UNITED! UNITED!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:31
SUCK IT SPARKY!!!!
SUCK IT CITY!!!!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OWEN YA BEAUTY!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:32
United for Life! Owen > England! Giggs is reborn! WOW!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:32
Whoever criticises Giggs take it back. That man was involved in pretty much every goal today and remains the only midfielder we have capable of a through ball and a good cross.
Our defence was utter shit today. But Fletcher and Giggs and Rooney were utterly amazing and Owen showed exactly why we bought him-ONE CHANCE ONE GOAL RESULT!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:32
That, was the most entertaining match we’ve played since rome 07.
Fuck me!
Football, it will kill ya.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:34
@[OPTI]Madschester United: I was right, NOT!
This game was unpredictable!!!!!!!!! Aston Villa style with our new striker, scoring his OT debut goal for United!
Champions way!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:34
giggs can play till he is 50 o_o; he ran so much in this game
September 20th, 2009 at 15:34
Oh god I nearly put my head through the fucking ceiling!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:34
@Dan: You forget Villa last season. Roma was all one sided after 3 goals in. It was no way close to nerve wracking like this one.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:34
@Dan: Oh my ticky-ticker!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:37
THATS WHY WE’RE CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:38
Depressed to elated!…that must really, really hurt City fans, they didn’t deserve the draw though
September 20th, 2009 at 15:40
@edwin: It has been sorted. Fergie is a GENIUS! His half-time talk was game-changing, his subs incredible.
They should post health warnings for such games… my heart can’t take being broken so much in one game.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:41
Sparky can fuck right off! It took City two minutes to celebrate Bellamy’s second!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:41
I just got up dejected from the result to come to the computer and make one statement. That statement was going to be simply “BLAME IT ON RIO”. And as I am typing it Michael Owen scores a miracle goal thanks to a referee who gave us a full two minutes injury time more than what was allocated. Poor Man City…HA! HA! HA! HA!
I woke up at 5:15am to watch this game and was happy because I thought I would miss it having been told it was to start at 8:00 my time. Well I was pleasantly surprised. So what happens? Just one of the greatest, most exciting and most exhilarating games I have seen in years. I felt transported to the 90’s. Despite our defensive uselessness and the fact we played the entire game without a goalkeeper, this was the United I have been crying for for two seasons now. The 4-4-2 United with width, crossing ability and domination of the game in midfield and with pace. The finish is one for the ages but I do believe in all honesty that Sparky has a legitimate gripe with the referee over the amount of extra time granted. So what if Carrick came on, it should have added only 30 seconds at the most to the 4 minutes. Well that game went to 46+ by the time the whistle blew. But my heart frakken bleeds
I will write a great review this evening as I have to leave now but this game is what I have been asking for for a long time. Now if we could rid ourselves of schoolboy defending and invisible goalkeeping, then we would truly be dominant. WOW! What a game.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:41
@magno: It’s ok to eat city fans, cuz they don’t have any feelings
September 20th, 2009 at 15:42
Unbelievable. I have no words (which is lucky because I have shouted myself horse). Ferdinand played stoned again, Citeh took their chances well, and it was a great match of football for the neutral and the best Manchester derby in my living memory. Owen, worth every fucking penny.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:43
@Red Ranter: I think this tops the villa game as its a derby, and its the first derby with cities new born team.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:43
and i jizzed in my pants …
September 20th, 2009 at 15:44
@Grognard: Didn’t they score on 90, after the time added on board had gone up? So it’ a min 30 for that and then 30 seconds for Carrick’s substitution. Poor Citeh
September 20th, 2009 at 15:45
Forgot this important statistic;
Owen 1 – Tevez 0
September 20th, 2009 at 15:46
@magno: “Depressed to elated!…that must really, really hurt City fans, they didn’t deserve the draw though”
+1
we had tooooooooo0oooooo0o0o000 feking manny chances for citeh the massive to claim a point from that match.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:46
@Dan: Of course it does. I’m saying the Villa game was more exciting than the Roma one which became more of a procession for us.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:48
@Grognard: Glad you missed your Sports Memorabilia Conference for this game, eh. Big games always have 4 minutes of added time + 1 for city’s celebration + .5 for carrick + .5 for corners/freekick ~ 6 minutes, which is close enough. Added time is a minimum.
Hughes can eat one!
@Traverse: Owen, worth every penny! I like that one!
September 20th, 2009 at 15:49
@[OPTI]Madschester United: hahahaaaa thats funny mate
September 20th, 2009 at 15:51
@Red Ranter:
Oh right. I see what you mean now.
September 20th, 2009 at 15:52
@Traverse: im horse as well i watched on my comp in my office and my employees think im insane full volume profanity. they wanted tevez for 47m we said fek off and we’ll have mikey owen for free!!! HAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAA
September 20th, 2009 at 15:55
@[OPTI]Madschester United: @Traverse: Owen, worth every penny!
someone should make a banner of this and hang it stratford end
September 20th, 2009 at 16:00
gator, he is worth zero pennies!! and still better than tevez
September 20th, 2009 at 16:02
OH! MY! FUCKING! GOD!!!
Only football, not women, can create such orgasms!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:03
What a game!!!
Berba was so unlucky…
Rooney despite a goal was a bit poor.. gave away ball a few times…
Owen = Class
Giggsy is God!
Oh and yes, Valencia is useless…
September 20th, 2009 at 16:04
Update: Giggs found drinking out of the fountain of youth at half-time!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:05
This was the last straw for me… Ben Fuckup needs to go….
Rio should be chewed up for his mistake… but everyone has that kinda day… like vidic against liverpool last year… we lost that 4-1 remember? but thats just it i think, it was a rio off day…
TALK ABOUT SUPER SUB! OWEN was a godsend!
Giggs was sensational
Fletcher was the Man of the Match… he is the reason why we came anywhere close to winning the match…
rio and fuckup should do his laundry for a month for saving their asses
September 20th, 2009 at 16:05
WHOA….Fergie’s post-match interview is just gonna kill Hughes and City fans!!!
Look at this –
“We gave three goals away today. It could have been an embarrassment – we could have won 6-0 or 7-0 today. But in the end we still we won one of the best Manchester derbies. We have a neighbour, and sometimes neighbours are noisy, but we showed our power today and we get on with life.”
LOL
September 20th, 2009 at 16:07
Okay does anybody know from where i can download the video of the whole match?
September 20th, 2009 at 16:08
As I stated when we acquired lil’ Mickey Owen!
The Phoenix is reborn with a dream goal in the Theater of Dreams.
Oh Tévez…you ugly little hobbit, let us hear your poor excuses for defeat.
What a game!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:08
@antsBoy: HAHA
@Wink: Giggs MOM!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:11
Owen -£0mil-02goals
Teveth-£25mil-00
September 20th, 2009 at 16:14
Someone please send me a link of the post match interview.
September 20th, 2009 at 16:19
Said it once and I shall say it again;
OWEN-1 tevez-0
OWEN= NEW SOLSKJAER!!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:20
Giggs and Owen prove that legends never die. Giggsy’s cold-blooded pass and Owen’s shrewdest run shows that class is fucking permanent !!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:21
So, How did everyone react to Owens Goal?
I jumped about screaming ‘YES’ All the while nearly putting my head through the ceiling!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:24
YEEEAHHH BABBBYYYYY!!!!!!
What a frackin game!!!! This is why we watch footy lads!!! This is my match of the season so far!! Had everything, brilliance, gaffes, late drama… what else do we want??!! Coupled with Fergie’s post match interview *cough* DISS * cough*, this is the perfect day!! 
Now City, feck off back into mid-table obscurity and take that treacherous little argentinean cunt with you. 
September 20th, 2009 at 16:25
AMAZING GAME!!!
Feckin Incredible!!!
Bonkers!!!
Totally out there!!!
Football… Bloody hell!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:29
@[OPTI]Madschester United: Have ta agree. Giggs man of the maach.
@edwin: YEEEEAAHHHHH!!!! YEEEEEAAHHHHH!!!! YEAAAHHHHHHH!!!!
*punching the air like a madman*
September 20th, 2009 at 16:32
Apparently Bellamy was doing the airplane arms. Fucking bluearsed bitter cunt bastard got what he deserved.
September 20th, 2009 at 16:34
@poiuy: damn straight man!!! Giggsy oozed class today… involved in every one of our goals!! Absolute legend!! Speaking of legends, Owen might just become one; scoring his first OT goal, not only in front of the stretty end, but in the greatest manc derby to date and also was the winning goal scored in the last minute!! Classic, just dream stuff!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:37
@edwin: YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH YEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH YYYYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH FUUUUUUUUUUUUUCKINGG MIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIICCHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEEEEEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLL OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENNNNNNNN!!!!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
September 20th, 2009 at 16:38
@edwin: Man, I think I did a squat mid-air while jumping for joy!!!
Best goal ever!!! Man, I just have all this adrenaline and I can’t focus on my dissertation!! I need to watch them highlights over and over again!!! 
September 20th, 2009 at 16:38
@NicoQB: A bit like this then mate;
http://i.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01485/man_united_1485333c.jpg
September 20th, 2009 at 16:40
Feck me – my head is spinning, and its not just the ALE either thankyou. Michael Owen – what a goal – world class positioning and world class touch. Darren Fletcher – who can deny that he is fast becoming a Roy Keane-ish late into the box top goalscorer with his head? Giggsy turning back the clock with a great 2nd half contribution, but 1st half was sloppy. I hold my hands up though – Did Valencia read my post comments??? He actually fought today with a bit of passion, and he gave Wayne Bridge scare after feckin scare on the right wing – miles better contribution than Park, but that doesn’t take much does it? How unlucky is Berba, he should have had a hat trick today – but he just can’t buy a goal for Man United
. We gave City all three of their goals through totally disgracefully sloppy defensive blunders 
. I am sorry to all Foster supporters but he is a liability. I could forgive one blunder, but he is far to slow to react, wants too much time to kick the ball out, and invited players like Tevez onto him every time he received a backpass. United defenders better STOP passing the ball back to Foster at all – I am serious!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:42
Did tevez get booed ‘? I wasn’t able to watch the game.
September 20th, 2009 at 16:43
We COMPLETELY dominated the second half, having at one ten minute segment 80% possession. City basically scored with almost every chance they had. If we had done the same we would have gone well into double figures. Our stupid mistakes have only served to conceal the fact that City were outplayed, outfought and outclassed. This bunch of fucking mercenaries along with their miserable moaning minnies fanbase got a proper bloody spanking today. Taught a proper fucking lesson that they are not ready to play with the big boys. I beseech all United fans who know any City fans to keep rubbing it in, taking the piss and delighting in this victory because believe me that’s what those underlings would have been doing. Sorry Twats.
September 20th, 2009 at 16:44
Anderson and Fletcher is our best midfield combo. Until Hargo comes back, we should start those two absolutely EVERY game! Controlled the midfield in the second half, and both have got the potesial to become just better. If they get some games together they may develop an understanding which is vital for midfielders. It seems they complete eachother. Im starting to fall in love in that idea…
Only football, not women, can create such orgasms!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:44
How did Anderson play?
September 20th, 2009 at 16:48
I roundly boo-ed Tevez today, along with all the bellowing United Reds around me. His face when he got BOO-ED when he 1st came onto the pitch –
pissed myself laughing, because it was a picture. CARLA was stunned! He was also nullified in a fiery 2nd half, that belonged to Man United – it would have been daylight robbery if we had lost this game – Grognard we were magic mate – all over them in a 2nd half that was all endeavour, blood and sheer guts from our lad! Viva Man United!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:52
@Johnsom33: Brilliantly! He along with Fletcher bossed the midfield, he looked like the Anderson of 2007/08. Could have scored a goal, battled hard and created some good attacks. Great game by Andy!
September 20th, 2009 at 16:56
This is classic…
September 20th, 2009 at 16:56
What a match… Owen with that Goal nearly stopped my heart… Next when we play like this i think we should keep a caution written not advisable for heart patient… It must have caused many heart attacks (and yes many orgasms as well…
)…
Anyway, I really worry who’s gonna do Giggsy job once he will call it a day….
Since Arsenal game till today he is the man who was instrumental for our goals left, right and center…. The man is rolling back years with every passing day…. Absolute legend…
Foster today has finally proven that there is no doubt… He is utter shit… Useless fucker almost fucked our day…
But, yeah great match, the best derby in my life time…. Fergie is genius… Proved again….
Finally, 4-4-2 is the way to go… Proved……….
September 20th, 2009 at 16:57
@Johnsom33: CARLA
September 20th, 2009 at 17:00
@Johnsom33: Oops sorry – CARLA tevez got boo-ed from the first instant and every time he touched the ball thereafter, apart from a few odd times. He looked very uncomfortable and miserable, like that has never happened to Him before. Serves him right for taking his OT return welcome for granted!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:01
@Craig Mc: Spot on mate regarding Valencia. His introduction worked like a charm, and the play became very direct. It was surprising and cool to see him celebrate “properly” today unlike his usual stone-faced celebration.
As well, Fletcher indeed is getting Kean-ish match by match. He chose the right match to score his double.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:01
Yours truly player ratings (btw, when was the last time someone here did some player ratings??):
Foster – 4
Totally at fault for the first goal, and could have done better closing down on the third (Bellamy’s second)
O’shea – 6
Run ragged by Bellamy. To be fair, Neville and Rafael wouldn’t have fared better imho. Wes Brown should have started.
Ferdinand – 4.5
Was already not having the best of games before his moment of madness. Partly at fault for another goal too.
Vidic – 7
Ok, but not spectacular either. Did his job with no-nonsense clearances. Foster and Ferdinand could take heed.
Evra – 7.5
Usual Evra. Relatively solid in defence, wasn’t fazed playing against his old pal tevez, and contributed going forward.
Fletch – 9
Two goals from a defensive midfielder, what more can one ask for? I thought he was maybe a bit tired in the first half though.
Anderson – 7.5
Good presence, but once too many times dodgy end product.
Giggs – 9.5 MOTM*
How does he do it?
Assists, dribbling runs, passing – if he can keep his fitness levels up, he can easily play past 40 years old. Our very own Maldini.
Park – 5.5
Poor passing in the first half, poor end product, fouls…
Rooney – 9
Dangerous on the ball, kept his position, tracked back only when needed: a typical in-form Rooney performance. Once in a while a bit selfish (could have passed to berbatv a bit more), but all in all a well-rounded performance by him.
Berbatov – 7.5
A rather poor showing in the first 45, but picked up his game in the second half. Given denied him several times good scoring opportiunities, but as some said, he could have given more direction to his headers. I still think his team mates should pass the ball to him more though.
Subs:
Valencia – 7.5
A clear improvement from Park, he caused trouble on his right side and as usual drove in some dangerous crosses.
Owen – 8
One opportunity, one goal. New solskjaer, 0£ bargain, Fergie’s a genius, etc., etc…
Others:
SAF – 8
Cannot be blamed for his selection of Foster and Ferdinand, though its easy to say afterwards that Evans should have started in front of Ferdinand considering match fitness. Bringing Owen on was a masterstroke.
Bonus:
Tevez (c*nt)- 7.5
Played well in the first half, disappeared in the second. Loved the reaction of the fans.
City defence – 6
Totally outclassed, especially when dealing with wing play.
City midfield – 6.5
Solid in the first half, but again disappeared inthe second.
City attack – 9
Considering they miss two of their best players in Robinho and Adebayor, they are a sure threat going forward.
Mark Hughes – 8
Does a good job in the face of adversity. Makes his team play on its strength.
Loved the beaming smile on Sir Alex’s face while he looked ready to punch SAF when they shook hands at the end of the game!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:01
@AndyCR7: Sums up the game nicely
September 20th, 2009 at 17:03
@AndyCR7: Priceless………Pricelesssssssssss….Pricelesssssssssssssssssss……..
Absolute peach…………………………….
September 20th, 2009 at 17:05
@Gabriel: You would have laughed with the Irish United contingent after the game Gabriel! They were OTT joyous, and were saying Aaaaah world class Mickey Owen, what a winner, although we now have two fucking scouser giants in our team – O well they said, as long as they score and play for United like they mean it. So far it looks like they are doing just that – they said slurring their speech from to much good consumption of Manc ale
.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:05
Did anyone else see bellamy slapping the fan? Rio gave a him a nice work over though. I bet bellamy is going to hear from the FA post this.
And what a game. I whispered Yes!!! as loud as i could as owen scored (have a 4 month kid sleeping in the house )
September 20th, 2009 at 17:06
@Footy4Eddy:
.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:07
@edwin: Absolutely!!!
Love Red Nev’s celebration too!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:08
Just wanted to say what a class game that was, obviously. This is the way we have always done it, putting us fans through hell before the delight of getting the 3 points, magic stuff.
As grognard stated earlier this was a performance of the united of old, yes the defence was shit and of course we want improvements there but truly in the 2nd half everytime we got forward we looked like we would score.
Giggsy on the left, well what can i say about him, I’ll hold my hands up now a few weeks ago i was complaining about his inclusion in the squad for games like this, but this was vintage giggs, really rolling back the years, he looked like a 20 year old not a man coming close to 36.
Evra too i thought did a good job on the left getting forward when he could but for me im still disappointed attaking wise and defensively from the right hand side of the pitch.
Im sorry park fans but for me he was dreadful today, really didnt notice him at all and i really dont know a reason for his inclusion, if his job was to mark bellamy out of the game then he didnt do that job well at all. Likewise o’shea, not just basing it on this one game but hes a pretty decent defender but no more, hes not a massive problem but bellamys first goal for me was down to him, backing off and then letting bellamy cut onto his inside to score for me was down to park and oshea not closing him down. Hes a decent player but attacking wise aswell for me he didnt contribute enough and i really believe now its time to give brown, de laet, fabio a chance because whilst oshea is pretty decent defensive attacking wise i feel he doesnt provide enough and the right side is a big part of our attacking plans.
The strikers were decent today, berba showed up late on and was unlucky, seems his luck is out at the minute, and rooney for me sort of drifted out of the game as it wore on.
I do want to say though how well i thought the ando/fletch partnership worked out. It seems obvious to me its the best partnership around at the minute and i do hope we can see these 2 getting a good few consecutive games together because i think they looked good together today.
Now for foster, well i feel weve given him long enough, seems obvious to me hes just not a top keeper for a club of our stature. Spurs, villa, everton keeper maybe but just not united class. Everytime the ball is given back to him i held my breath, theres just no confidence with him in goal and i can only imagine what that does to the defenders in front of him. He was at fault for the bellamy second goal imo as well, came forward to early and got beaten at his near post, very poor for that goal.
Really i think its time we went out in january and brought a new keeper in, were lucky in that right now there are so many top class keepers around who are available. Stand outs seem adler, neurer, akinfeev and boruc who could all be brought in. Really its time we sort out the keeper, edwin cant go on at the top level much longer and its really time we went with some1 new because it seems foster clearly isnt up to it.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:09
Sorry to interrupt you guys!!!!!
Daily mail is running this story about Silva….
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1214840/Manchester-United-set-splash-25m-Valencias-Spanish-star-David-Silva.html
If he is getting into this fucking team then ……….. We have a great shout in both BPL and Cl….. Bringem all………..
September 20th, 2009 at 17:11
Got this one from Red Cafe… I guess it was for Tevez…
September 20th, 2009 at 17:12
@AndyCR7: Have you got this in 1024*768 I need a new wallpaper!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:14
@Dan: Mate – Fergie told the press yesterday in his pre match interview that City payed 47million in the end for Tevez, and not the 25million reported. That is why his slave owners took him to Man City in the end
.
I am chuffed to the umpteenth that the City money mercenaries didn’t get their £9000 per man money bonus for winning –
lol, totally ruined their night out eh?
Also – Tevez one chance – missed – hit the outside of post.
.
Mickey Owen – one chance – scored a corking winner.
I know who I’d rather have
September 20th, 2009 at 17:14
@Onkar: As if the day couldn’t get any better!!!!
I agree with Eddy, only football gives you these kind of orgasms!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:14
@Onkar: That story’s been doing the rounds for quite a while now. But he’s not what we need. We’re crying out for a central midfielder
September 20th, 2009 at 17:17
I need to forget about everything else now…. Just enjoy…. Still felling it in my vain though……
Surely agree with Eddyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
September 20th, 2009 at 17:18
Great game…loved the ending…i would have been so pissed if we lost 3 points today because we dominated them in the second half..with no magical dribbles just tight team play…which surely looks good for any fan!!
Once Valencia was on, it was all classic United…good runs down the wing and excellently directed crosses that would run any central defender wild..and above all that we have Rooney always coming out to meet the ball from the box..
Fergie did a master stroke (No…not when he brought on Valencia)..But by doing that Anderson substitution which added 30 seconds to the clock but actually only took not more than 10-15 seconds to happen…He knew refrees will be considering those before blowing that final whistle…and that extra 15 seconds added up to 2 points today!!…
Classic!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:19
@NicoQB:
@Onkar:
September 20th, 2009 at 17:21
If Anderson and Fletcher keep this up and start most of our games we have the best midfield combination in England!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:30
About Foster.
In my opinion, this was the first time he had a really terrible game with us.
He was very sound for us until today, so no, I will not be jumping on the bandwagon and calling for his head. I still think that Kuzczack is worse. If Foster can carry on the form he showed prior to this game, I think he can be our no.1. But obviously, he’s not done himself a service with today’s game. Prior to this , I fancied him to keep his place in the starting eleven when Van der Sar came back from injury, but now I doubt this will be the case.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:35
Well that was bloody brilliant. Priceless.best game since the Villa game last year, and better…totally shouted my head off.
Giggsy-what a player!!! he had City in knots today, was absolutely magical, my MOTM
and Fletch, he is fast becoming our Keane. Makes you curse the stupid ref who sent him off in the CL semi last year even more
On Berba, if you watch the Torres header yesterday and then watch Berba today, that is the difference between a world class central striker and berba, who for all his qualities, will never be hugely prolific.
On Ben Foster, he needs to be sold to some championship team, thats where he belongs. Just think of the scoreline in this game if the keepers had been reversed!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:36
@Red Ranter: Although Silva coming to OT looks unlikely, he is an interesting player who fits into exactly the kind of role Giggs played today. Great movement, precise through balls and fluid link-up with other players. It is exciting to imagine how he would fit in this team.
As to central midfield, the onus is clearly and squarely on Anderson now. If he can step it up this season, nothing could be better. But in another sense, he’s kind of “blocking” a move for a world-class forward-minded central midfielder. Lets wait and see how it pans out.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:39
@Red Ranter: Apparently David Silva is a CAM. A bit like Boro’s Juninho or a Totti. True, he would be a bit of an advanced midfielder for us, but his talent is undeniable, and would be better than Carrick and Anderson in the creative midfielder mould, imho.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:41
@AndyCR7: Awww I love that photo pic. Somebody from Stretford flags – please, please, make a poster flag of that piccie for putting on show in all our home games!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:42
okay sorry for posting so many links… but, what about this Bellamy-fan quarrel… Was it serious?
September 20th, 2009 at 17:43
@poiuy: I agree – he is exaclt the kind of player Giggs is nowadays – only he is just about to hit his peak years as a footballer.
You should come here and comment more often mate!
@Vivek: Admittedly, Given is a great keeper, but no, I’m not sure the scoreline would have been much different if keepers would have been reversed.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:45
okay now this also classica… Evra spraying water on Tevez after final whistle…
September 20th, 2009 at 17:47
@NicoQB: I think Silva is the replacement SAF wants for Giggs when he hangs up his boots!
September 20th, 2009 at 17:48
@AndyCR7: If this is true, there’s another suspension in store for that oaf Bellamy.
Worse than what Adebayor did in my books.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:50
This is the best team we have right now:
VDS
Brown Rio Vidic Evra
Nani Fletcher Anderson Giggs
Rooney Owen
Would have placed Foster instead of VDS, but his blummer today was just too big to look past. In a Manchester derby as well…
Actually think Rio should have kicked it out to begin with, but when it went to Foster he shouldnt have tried to Rick-Roll Tevez. Just made him look shite! Brown is our best right back, the other three are just written into the side even though Rio fucked up today. Nani is our best winger, and if Giggsy continues like he has done lately he will be one of our most vital players this season! Anderson and Fletcher are our best midfield combo, and if they keep this up they will be the best midfield partnership in England. Rooney is a goal machine at the moment, and Owen=Goals! 
September 20th, 2009 at 17:53
Bellamy’s celebration after his second goal. Is this what i think he’s doing? If so, its despicable. Utterly classless.
September 20th, 2009 at 17:58
@AndyCR7: Nearly as good as Evra pissing all over on Tevez.
September 20th, 2009 at 18:16
why no one has congratulated me yet????
September 20th, 2009 at 18:18
@AndyCR7: keep those pictures coming! hilarious! the day just keeps getting better….
one more city striker going in the can!!!!
cant wait to see how many matches till they run outta strikers.
i really hope the bellamy clash with a fan gets blown outta proportions, just to heap more woe onto the shitty lot…
about the airplane celebration… u reckon it means that? alot of people do it…
September 20th, 2009 at 18:19
@owen: lol didnt u read above? people are just about ready to likc the shit off your balls ‘owen’.. haha
September 20th, 2009 at 18:20
@owen: Thanks Michael, we owe you big time!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 18:29
@NicoQB: City fans are now claiming Gary Nev should be banned because there is no difference between what he did and Adebayor. Bitter cunts.
September 20th, 2009 at 18:30
@AndyCR7: Keep the pics coming mate, as you said, classic stuff!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 18:32
@owen: You need to be playing more man, you are too good !
September 20th, 2009 at 18:39
@ poiuy : i m the best……………
September 20th, 2009 at 18:47
@owen: 1st, 2nd and 3rd best?
September 20th, 2009 at 18:47
@Wink: I think Bellamy wasn’t doing airplane thingi… If I remember correctly, I think I have seen him celebrating like this in the past… Still, not sure though…
September 20th, 2009 at 18:54
Okay if anybody knows from where i can download the full match, please let me know…
September 20th, 2009 at 18:59
@AndyCR7: Redtube.com
The game was like watching porn!
September 20th, 2009 at 19:00
@NicoQB: Are you kidding me when you say this is Fosters first bad game? The first fault was a beginners mistake trying to outsmart a guy who’s only strength is speed and headless attacking on the ball. Bellamy’s second was almost completely Rio’s showboating which got us into trouble but Foster too went down too early to stop Bellamy. If you see the replay, Bellamy’s last touch was a weak one and he was able to push it through at that angle just coz Foster went down too early. Again, wouldnt blame Foster much for that but that shows lack of experience albeit at age 26.
And we have been realllly reallly lucky to get away with a win. A 3-3 draw would have almost been as good as a victory for City and the fault would have lied completely on her lousy defense line!! We got away with such mistakes coz it was City we were up against. Same mistakes against a ‘Pool or the rent boys, we would have paid miserably. Give Evans a few games, let Rio come back 200% physically and maybe mentally, if reqd.
September 20th, 2009 at 19:01
@AndyCR7: Here you go mate,
http://www.mininova.org/tor/2971927
September 20th, 2009 at 19:01
What a coward Bellamy is, he fists a player in the face who is in custody and cannot defend himself. Bellamy has attacked a fan, no matter what the provocation, and after the Adebeyor commotion of last week, Bellamy is a total NUMPTEE! Bellamy is a thug anyway, he has a long history of attacking team mates, WOMEN, drunks in nightclubs, and now a fan who couldn’t protect himself. If I was that fan, I would take a civil action out against Bellamy and the Police for allowing Bellamy to attack him whilst in their custody. That fan is going to be banned for his actions of running onto the pitch, and Bellamy and the police should take the flak too
. Wastelands is now notably a place for hotheads and mentalists. They are the local lunatic asylum.
September 20th, 2009 at 19:08
@godzilla: We have been really lucky to win????? What planet are you living on mate. They were the fortunate ones, because we gave them all 3 of their goals – they would have never scored themselves. Also luck didn’t play a part, because we were totally THRASHING them in the 2nd half, and there was nothing lucky about Mickey Owens goal – no more than we deserved that win mate!
September 20th, 2009 at 19:09
@Cyclops-Red: As if Nev ran the entire length of the pitch faster than Usain Bolt to goad them bitters…
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2009/sep/20/michael-owen-carlos-tevez-manchester-united
September 20th, 2009 at 19:11
@RDJ: Thanks a lot dude…
September 20th, 2009 at 19:11
@edwin: Was Nev doing that while facing the City fans then – I missed that
.
September 20th, 2009 at 19:15
Fletcher on the winning goal:
“It was a great move and a fantastic finish,” he said. “Giggsy’s pass was unbelievable, and the way Michael controlled it with the outside of his foot and then finished was brilliant. A natural goalscorer makes natural goalscorer movements, and he’s going to be an important player for us.”
Well said Fletch, especially the bit on natural goal-scoring.
September 20th, 2009 at 19:16
Check out this link for validation of the 6 extra minutes…
http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8742_5572308,00.html
September 20th, 2009 at 19:19
@godzilla: I know that Foster had a poor game, I’m not contesting this.
But other than that, most of the goals he conceded this season were hardly of his own fault. He admitted that he could have done better on the Arshavin goal, but I still believe he was being hard on himself considering the quality of the shot.
What most people fail to remeber is that Van der Sar was poor at the start of last season, and habitually goes through phases where he has his own share of dodginess. But the sheer excellence of our central defenders did not make this so much apparent.
People are waiting to put foster down, because he looks like the average englishman, lacks the sexiness of a foreigner and does not have an illustrious career to boot.
Foster is miles better than Almunia, and is probably on par with Reina. Only Cech is better in the big four.
September 20th, 2009 at 19:35
1. Robbie Blake thunderbolt of a volley
2. Arshavin piledriver into the top corner from 25 yards.
3. Defoe overhead kick
4. Foster mistake
5. Bellamy wonder strike into far top corner from 25 yards.
6. One of the biggest mistakes Rio will ever make!
Those are the goals we have conceded this season. Do you guys also find it weird that albeit from the two mistakes against City all the goals we have conceded have been goal of the season contenders?
Weird…
September 20th, 2009 at 19:40
Alright boys, that was the best game I have been to for a long time, comedy defending by both sides City fans are scum, but we all know that.
Giggs was superb a big fuck off to those idiots who have been disrespecting him on this site for a long time, Fletch was superb and by far is our best midfield player with or without Hargreaves his workrate is infectious on others, was that the Rio of West Ham fame playing today?
But all those who have been moaning about a our lack of “entertainment” even though they have never been to OT in their lives well how was that?
September 20th, 2009 at 19:51
Brilliant game! Brilliant game!
Thanks Fergie.
I can understand City’s gripes because the ref did ‘gift’ us the victory. Well actually not. He gave us a lifeline by playing an excessive amount of extra-time, but I give credit to the lads for coming up with the winner. It was anyone’s game really.
I think we were simply orgasmic in the 2nd half. As soon as we can add 2 or 3 more of these types of performances, I will shut up in my criticisms of Fergie for the rest of the season.
My MOTM was without a doubt Fergie. He stuck with the attacking play. He made brilliant substitutions and I must admit, tactically very sound. Brilliant game.
I’m sorry to bring out this negative at such a great time, but…
Ben Foster?????
September 20th, 2009 at 19:54
@Stephen: I’ve been to OT a few times, but I must admit. THIS WAS ENTERTAINMENT!
Even if we lost the game, I would have still been happy.
September 20th, 2009 at 19:56
@Stephen: The comedy defending took me back to the old United-Barca game mentality. “We’ll score more goals than you…fuck defending”
September 20th, 2009 at 19:59
@Craig Mc: Sorry Craig, but this numptee made both England’s Rio and Foster look like amateurs
Give him his due, he did good.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:00
@Karl:
Awful wasn’t it mate, to be honest I am like you I was so much enjoying the game I sort of switched off to be it ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK!!!!!!! 
September 20th, 2009 at 20:04
@Stephen: I’m extatic. This was truly brilliant!
Btw, my wife told me to tell you guys on the blog that Tevez really look shit ugly in Blue (not that I thought he looked better in red mind you)
September 20th, 2009 at 20:04
@Karl: Owen is so lively, I have not seen a player who moves like him since Ruud, he was doing his standing in an offside position thing, he is a goal whore, and we are his new pimp!
September 20th, 2009 at 20:07
@Footy4Eddy: Hear! Hear!
Well noted.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:08
@Karl: Is it me but does he look overweight?
It was a typical Tevez game, started very bright and ran around like a rabbit on speed, but faded and lacked quaility, but he did clap us fans but what City fans sang about him is a disgrace.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:09
I left the match at half time, and just saw the full time score and Owen’s goal. Great result, and by the posts it looks like we took their arse in the 2nd half (also gave them some compensation gifts).
Now back to Foster … what a c***.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:11
@Stephen: I agree. He is bloody quick off the mark. Even in midweek, when ruled offside, he was actaully on. He is just so bloody quick in his reactions.
)
I must admit, his overall teamplay leave a bit to be desired, but then again, he should not be employed for that. He’s job is to score goals, and I think after this game, the goals will flow. Not a bad aqcuisition. (and my wife think he’s cute
September 20th, 2009 at 20:16
@Stephen: What did City fans sing?
IMO, he was not too bad. If I’m not mistaken, he created 2 for them. One have to note that he was really starved of supply, esp in the 2nd, yet he stuck alone up front. I think when Hughes pushed him inside, he became more involved.
I don’t want to dampen moods, BUT, Tevez is not a United player, therefore he deserves what he got from the United fans. I hope, for the sake of hypocrisy, that Ronaldo gets the same when he comes to OT.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:16
Most of Fosters mistakes come from lack of experience, not lack of ability. Therefor I think its very harsh from us to tell Fergie to sell his ass off and fuck him.
He is a brilliant keeper, who has won us very many points this season. Without Ben we wouldnt have won against Arsenal, Birminham or possibly even Spurs, because of his brilliant, match winning saves. What ruings for Foster is his stupid mistakes. And those mistakes arent such mistakes like Carroll, Taibi or Howard did. Its mistakes that happen because he hasnt played a lot of games for us. His gaffe(s) today will only make him a better keeper, I am sure of that. Just watch, he is gonna turn out great! 
September 20th, 2009 at 20:19
@Karl: Rubbish, we gifted him them goals thru pure bloody keystone cops defending, we hadn’t done that, he wouldn’t have scored. I was at the game, so were you, how we see things differently eh?
.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:19
@Stephen: To be fair, most people having a problem with the old guard were on about Scholes much more than Giggs. But I have to agree that performance by Giggs will be remembered for years to come.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:19
That is why I love this game. Superb 2nd half from United and a great emotional back and forth finale!!
Ryan Giggs showed why he keeps getting picked ahead of the youngsters. There is not a player alive today who could have put in a better shift than he did today. Cool and thoughtful with great moments of individual brilliance. He is truly a master and one that still has a class or two left in him!!
Darren Fletcher showed what a CMF can do when he gets deep into the oppositions PA. Brutally clinical with both his goals, he was still able to perform his central duties with due diligence. His continued improvement/deveplopment is both encouraging and surprising, a late bloomer indeed and a product of SAF patience.
Valencia’s physicality was a notable improvement over a disappointing Park, and seemed to tip the scales our way when he was introduced. A better showing from him today – much more urgent and much more aware of his surroundings.
Ben Foster showed why he will not be our next goalie. His usual problems resurfaced and in a game that his counterpart kept his side in the game. Hesitancy and poor decision making are Fosters Achilles heel and today he almost crippled an otherwise, huge team effort.
Others of note was Rio, who gave an overly casual display. Him and Foster should be buying Michael Owen’s dinner tonight.
Owen took his chance wonderfully. A great strikers sense for positioning and finishing. More please!!
Berbatov, although somewhat unlucky, he should have buried a couple of his chances.
Rooney, for me, was disappointing today. Too many times did his passes go astray and it was often the case that his offerings seemed sloppy in their conception. An off day from him and one, I’m sure, he’ll make amends to, ASAP.
A great day for United, a great day for football and a great day for Manchester. We fought out a well deserved victory and it is a very, very encouraging sign for the games ahead.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:21
@Footy4Eddy: His kicking of tha ball in a tight situation or a back-pass is extremely poor. He better improve soon.. as soon as yesterday.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:21
@Karl: Ronaldo will not be booed by the fans. After Ronny left he has only spoken kindly of United, Fergie and all connections he has with the club. Even said he may return one day, and that he would never play for another club in England. He left for Spain, not our city neighbours! Besides, Ronaldo sindlehandedly won us the Premier League and Champions League in 2008, plus he is one of only 3 United players to have won the World Player of the Year. He gave this team and the fans more exitement than we have ever seen, and some of us have gotten even more respect for him since he left. Ronaldo will be looked at as a hero, Tevez a traitor…
September 20th, 2009 at 20:22
By the way Karl, what has that particular comment about Bellamy’s NUMPTEE behaviour for attacking a fan got to do with his playing ability which I didn’t mention in that post
. You spoiling for a fight as usual mate?
September 20th, 2009 at 20:23
@Rahul: His poor kicking is because he thinks he has more time than he actually does. As the game went on you could see he only blasted it up, instead of trying a shot feint of some sort…
It went well then, and his kickng is actually pretty good. He just needs to learn that he isnt Ronaldinho and has to improve his right foot.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:24
@Stephen: Hargreaves has a mountain of a task in front of him to dislodge Fletch from our starting eleven.
@Stephen: Uh… What did they sing about him?
And anyone got a pic of surprised the Tevez when coming on to a rapture of boos? I missed the first few minutes.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:25
@Footy4Eddy: I’d NEVER Boo Ronnie anyway, because not only did he confess and apologise for the naivety in his behaviour during last summer, but he has had so much to do with everything we have won domestically and CL in last few years!
September 20th, 2009 at 20:25
The pattern I’m noticing is that we look better without Carrick,
If we can get Hargo fit and into some form (like his classic running around like he’s lost his car keys type form) We’ll go up a notch…as well
We absolutely battered them at time in the 2nd half.
Love it, get in!
September 20th, 2009 at 20:26
@Craig Mc: Craig, I watched the game from a recording. Had to go out to celebrate with the family first.
I know we gifted them their goals, but check Bellamy’s goal again on replay. When you check it, look at how Rio is trying to catch up with him, with hands all over the place like a rag queen getting hysterical. It was actually very comical. You have to admire Bellamy for his pace, and controlling the ball at that pace. The strike was rather ‘weak’ and there I have to blame Foster for letting it in. I personally feel he could have done better to keep it out. Watch it again, I’m sure those pictures of Rio in the beach-dress will come to mind.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:26
@NicoQB: A FIT Hargo will walk into our team, and Fletch will play alonside him, and our MF will have so much added steel and flexibility!
September 20th, 2009 at 20:30
@Karl: You do realise that Rio wasn’t fit don’t you, and that he was struggling for a good part of the game. Like he shouldn’t have played in Rome against Barca, he shouldn’t have played today, because his mobility was effected with his not being at peak fitness! It has been all over the radio that Rio should not have come back, he was not fully recovered!
September 20th, 2009 at 20:30
@Karl: Send my thoughts to your wife who obviously has very good taste in men!
@Redrich: Valencia was just as good as he has been previously for us, its just that the contrast with Park made it so much more obvious.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:32
How the fuck come no-one but me here notices that we look incredbly strong with Fletch and Ando as our midfield combo?!
Carrick and Scholes are shite, and with Ando and Fletch in this kind of form we would blow absolutelty every team on this planet apart! Giggs is doing well, but lately he has blossomed as a LW again. Come on Craig, Karl! Anderson was bloody brilliant today and controlled the game with Fletcher. If Wazza hadnt been so shit with his decisionmaking today Ando couldve gotten 3 assists. 
Hopefully Fergie now knows what his best CM partnership is, because we will not be beaten easilt with those two powerhouses there! 
September 20th, 2009 at 20:32
@Craig Mc: I didn’t read all the comments prior to that. Just scrolled up read your post, and found it strange that Bellamy’s character was brought into question. My point was just, even though I don’t like him myself, he did make both Rio and Foster look like asses.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:33
@RedDave: Your so right RedDave, and all the complaints about the extra minutes, well didn’t they have that same extra playing time. They should have played full pelt to the final whistle like our lads did – and that frenzidly.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:33
@NicoQB: That’s why he sat on the bench at the start of todays game, huh???
September 20th, 2009 at 20:34
@Craig Mc: Yeah, but he still ran like a drag queen
rofl
September 20th, 2009 at 20:35
@NicoQB: She chose me
September 20th, 2009 at 20:38
@Craig Mc: I agree, but I was thinking in terms of having only one Defensive Central midfielder. And rght now Fletch has made this position his own. And also we have no guarantee of ever seeing the hargreaves of old. Just look at how Neville has struggled when he came back from his own injury.
I wish I’m wrong though.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:42
@Footy4Eddy: I really don’t want to fight with anyone. I’m in too good a mood because of a truly great performance. I just feel that I have to state this case:
Ronaldo is lying fucker who cares nothing for anyone but himself. He blatantly lied to us fans (including me), and if some people think that if you wine and dine our manager then all is forgiven, then so be it. Not me. He is still a liar and whatever stick Tevez gets, in my books, he should too because what he did was much worse. He actually treated suporters as idiots. “Aww, I just score a few goals and they will forget all about it”. Well, not everybody is that gullable.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:43
@Redrich: So?
Sitting on the bench is by no means proof of one player being inferior to another.
@Footy4Eddy: Bloody brilliant is pushing it a bit. Like I said 8/10 max for me. But he did look refreshed after his recent stint in the doghouse.
@Karl: Obviously!!!
September 20th, 2009 at 20:45
@Craig Mc:
Yep…I’m pretty sure Citeh celebrated a goal for over a minute, and extra time is announced as being a “minimum of” int it
September 20th, 2009 at 20:46
@Footy4Eddy: You don’t have to sell me on Anderson. I love him to bits. I’m just dissapointed that he didn’t score. In saying that, I noticed, especially in the 2nd half, that he got more into offensive, threathening positions, and he is actually taking shots. That’s very good. I just hope we can keep him and Fletch for a few games to see how they develop as a partnership. I think it will be great.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:46
@Karl: But I wasn’t saying anything about his playing ability, You obviously don’t get it do you Karl? Bellamy’s character was brought into question, because a fan that had wrongly ran onto the pitch (probably tanked up with ale) was already being held in police custody, his hands restrained by the cops, so he couldn’t move to defend himself, and Bellamy clocked him a punch on the face. You obviosly didn’t see the photo of it further up the thread! Bellamy should not have raised his hand to a fan who was already in police custody, and couldn’t defend himself
. But Bellamy is violent, and has been in court several times for it, so it is fact, not just question.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:49
@NicoQB: I must admit, Anderson looked quite good out there, but I just got the feeling that something was missing. I was kinda missing a certain ’spark’ from him. Can’t really explain myself on this one.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:52
@Redrich: A cardboard cut out of Rio Ferdinand would have done a better job of defending today than Rio did.
Also, Tevez’s neck looks like his head has been circumcised. This would mean he had a giant foreskin over his face, and is technically a dickhead.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:53
@Craig Mc: Craig, I’m sorry I mis-interpreted your post. Shows how things can get real ugly if you don’t read properly or don’t check the full picture, in this case, budding in without reading the full ‘history’.
roflmao
I’m sorry about that. I mis-understood. I’m totally at fault here.
But, regardless, Rio still looked like a rag queen chasing him
September 20th, 2009 at 20:54
@NicoQB: 8/10 for a players who has been in the doghouse lately, in the best derby for a long time, dominating players such as Ireland and Barry, and when playing alongside a DM who scores 2 goals in a game of such proportions… I would call that bloody brilliant!
Im just delighted Ando is back to the form when we all loved him, and he is looking confident and aggressive again. Thank God for that. 
September 20th, 2009 at 20:55
@Craig Mc: I agree that Bellamy in person is a cunt. I really don’t like him. But Rio chasing him?
September 20th, 2009 at 20:55
@Traverse:
September 20th, 2009 at 20:56
@Karl: He apologised, several times, and SAF told him he was to deny anything about the Madrid move for this last year. SAF actually lied, and told Ronaldo what he was to say to the press, until it was time for them both to tell all. SAF said after denying that Ronaldo was going to Madrid, when he had already agreed to his sale providing he stayed with us another season. So don’t blame Ronaldo – nothing to do with him wining and dining Fergie. But feel free to boo Ronnie if he comes back to OT with Madrid, but for certain you will be among a very small minority. He will get a great reception, and SAF will insist on it!
September 20th, 2009 at 20:57
Firstly I have to say what a great game. It was just unbelievable.
This brings me to the fist point. Yes Mr Ben Foster.. This lad is shit personified. How many times must he fuck us over before fergie realises that he belongs back at watford. We were on top of the game and then he fucks up a routine back pass that he should have just booted out. Yes ferdinand maybe should have dealt with it but what the fuck was he thinking? Fucking hell he is a shite keeper, give us almunia,kirkland,cudicini anyone but this retard.He is so slow with his feet its unbelieveble He did it twive in the game not once!! He is a fuckup of the highest order. Even with bellamys goal all he had to do was stay up and make himself big, and if it goes in then ok. Isnt that wat keepers are taught to do? Yet he falls flat on his ass. Im sure he is a nice guy but hes just not good enough. Go back to the fucking championship please.
Darren Fletcher is a monster, great player these days.
Berbatov is such a waste of money, 30 million for someone that cant score easy headers,no wayz. It aint good enough
Owen is class, he needs to start against wolves. Overall great match but please fergie send foster packing before he does this again, because he will. PIG has never made a blubder like this, if he has id like to when when.
September 20th, 2009 at 20:58
@Craig Mc: I’m sorry. I think I’m too tired and should get some sleep. This has been a very loooooong, hyper day for me. It’s just, when I think back of how Rio chased him and could not catch up, I can’t help myself from laughing. Maybe it’s just me that see it funny, or maybe I’m exagerating it a bit. It just seems funny thinking back on it. I think I should go get some sleep and rather chat tomorrow again
September 20th, 2009 at 20:59
@Karl: Rio would have caught him and NAILED him if he had been fully fit mate. I wonder if we are seeing the end of Rio, because SAF said to the media on MUTV that he is very worried for Rio. He shouldn’t play him then should he, because Evans or Wes Brown who are fit, could have given us more speed and mobility
.
September 20th, 2009 at 21:00
@Karl: If you think back to the autumn of 2007, when Ando became the fan favorite he is, he played with Hargo next to him. It was a perfect fit for Anderson, and he could play as he felt like. He could express himself on the pitch and dominate games. Now that Fletcher is playing like a destructor DM, he is a perfect fit for Andy. It worked well against Spurs last week, and in the games against Arsenal last season. Today was just the peak, when the two of them dominated the three man midfield of Ireland, Barry and De Jong. They just compliment eachother so well! If Ando could just improve his shooting, remember he wasnt that far off with a shot today, it could be a dream duo. I certanly think so, and hope they now get time and games to prove themselves together.
September 20th, 2009 at 21:01
@Karl:
No problem mate!
September 20th, 2009 at 21:04
@Craig Mc: This is even worse. SAF AND Ronaldo lying? And you get upset with me for criticising SAF? At least I’m honest. The fact that SAF admit to knowing a year in advance about the Ronaldo sale and messing up in the transfer maket makes him look even more like an ass. No vision. And people want to get upset with Carla for only speaking the truth? I’d gladly be in the minority on this one.
September 20th, 2009 at 21:05
@Traverse:
September 20th, 2009 at 21:06
Anderson+Fletcher=A match made in heaven!
September 20th, 2009 at 21:07
@Craig Mc: Before I get into a fight, I think I will retire to bed. No hard feelings?
Oh, I don’t think we’ve seen the end of Rio. I think he’s just unfit and not quite match-ready. But damn, that running
September 20th, 2009 at 21:09
@Footy4Eddy: Andie’s distribution is not bad Eddi, but I’d like to see improvement on the tackling part – more aggression m’thinks
. He did ok today though buddy. I think, in fact I am certain he is speedier and more mobile in MF than Carrick!
September 20th, 2009 at 21:10
@Karl: Carlos wasn’t speaking the truth. He was lying and whining and his lies were blatantly obvious.
Also it’s very easy for you to take a moral high ground over Ferguson lying. But imagine how bizarre and stupid it would have been had Ferguson said Ronaldo will leave at the end of the season. He learned from the effect it had on the team last time round — when he said he would retire at the end of the season.
We all make mistakes and Ronaldo spent an entire season apologising over his conduct. He’ll get a much better reception than Tevez.
September 20th, 2009 at 21:12
@Craig Mc: Im actually surprised that not only did Anderson play well, but he kept it up for the whole 90 minutes he played! He never stopped running, which impressed me! His stamina has gotten better, even though as you said his aggression could improve. He did get stuck in though!
September 20th, 2009 at 21:28
http://www.flickr.com/photos/richardb85/3937469129/
September 20th, 2009 at 21:37
@Dan: Now THAT is class!
September 20th, 2009 at 21:58
@Dan: i think it has come out that massive shiteh payed 47m for tevster
September 20th, 2009 at 22:05
@Footy4Eddy: im already am married to and have kids with that idea mate we need to play the diamond with fletch as cdm and ando at cam just a beautiful midfield pair and the reason i didnt think we needed to splash this year give those two a chance to become roy and beks
September 20th, 2009 at 22:12
@Red Ranter: i believe its more of a chant than a cry ander son son son
September 20th, 2009 at 22:15
@AndyCR7: ooooooo thats a fist
can you say ban
September 20th, 2009 at 22:16
@Dan: That is great, Dan!!
September 20th, 2009 at 22:17
@AndyCR7: HAHAHAHAHAAaaaa thats classic… thats how you say “thanks for the text messages, you prat” in french
September 20th, 2009 at 22:19
@Craig Mc: i can buy that id like to see it but for my $$ gigs has another year like this in him
barring injury touch wood
September 20th, 2009 at 22:19
@Footy4Eddy: I agree, Ando has been playing better of late. More stamina, more vitality, more influence on the games.
He also seems to be enjoying himself too. Hope he can keep it up.
September 20th, 2009 at 22:22
@Footy4Eddy: +1 agree 100% flecherinho and ando are going to explode all over the prem this year i think we will need hargo back aswell for cl if we are to reach the final again.
September 20th, 2009 at 22:24
@Shami: shurley not mate no one would do that these days if so though i select him to have his knees removed by lead pipe.
September 20th, 2009 at 22:27
@Craig Mc: fergi is looking the same direction
September 20th, 2009 at 22:30
@Karl: BEEP
September 20th, 2009 at 22:32
@Karl: ronny hasnt talked shit and lied about saf and the club. he will probably be clapped on.
September 20th, 2009 at 22:35
@Footy4Eddy: his passes at times were like becks just inch perfect and there for the picking when he gets a run of games the chances will turn to goals and his shooting is much improved wpotyear in 3 seasons me thinks
September 20th, 2009 at 22:39
@Craig Mc: thats cuz he is comming back in jan
September 20th, 2009 at 22:39
@Dan: Yup, that’s going up in a separate post.
September 20th, 2009 at 22:42
Anderson has now started three games in a row, and against City he ran his ass off for 92 minutes…
Stamina increase or steroids? 
Hope he now understands what training does!
September 20th, 2009 at 23:45
http://therepublikofmancunia.com/video-rooney-fletcher-and-owens-goal-against-city/
Just watching the United goals again, and I wonder what would have been the general opinion of “fans” had Foster conceded these goals.
On the Rooney goal city defending is shocking.
On Fletcher’s goals Foster would have been called incompetent coming for crosses.
On Owen’s goals Foster would have probably been blamed all the same with poor positioning…
September 21st, 2009 at 0:19
@NicoQB: Just too, fucking bad, that you strive, fight and push for mediocrity!!
September 21st, 2009 at 0:32
@Redrich: Just like people fought for Fletcher before?!
Like people wanted to sell Evra after just 6 months? Like people thought Owen was shit because we didnt get Aguero or Villa? Like Giggs was told to retire in 2008 because he would never be able to cut it anymore?
If there is one things you learn as a United fan, its to trust Fergie whatsoever! If he thinks Foster is good enough, I think he is good enough. Dont you ever doubt him!
September 21st, 2009 at 0:36
@[OPTI]Madschester United: I didn’t miss my convention because the game was on earlier than I thought. But I hate wake up at 5:15am to watch it. I’m beat but WOW, what a game.
September 21st, 2009 at 0:42
@Red Ranter: David Silva is just as comfortable and as capable playing in the center of midfield as an AMF as he is playing on the left side. He is exactly what we need and has all the skill, finesse and attacking flair that will be the final piece to the puzzle. Trust me RR.
September 21st, 2009 at 0:44
@NicoQB: You have got to be kidding me.
He was utter crap in the Charity Shield and was all over the place vs Arsenal but got away with all his mistakes. He is fucking useless. 
September 21st, 2009 at 0:46
@Craig Mc: Bellamy is a punk. Nothing that sociopath does surprises me anymore.
September 21st, 2009 at 0:48
@Grognard: You got that right Grogster
.
September 21st, 2009 at 0:55
@Footy4Eddy: Eddi I am sorry mate, but I just have no faith in Foster anymore. I have my heart in my mouth every time the ball is passed back to him! He wants faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaar too much time to clear his box, and invites the opposition strikers to hurry him, and when he is harrassed mate he can’t CUT IT – and if far too slow! It wasn’t just the one giveaway to Tevez, Carla caught him at least 4-5 other times, and the near misses in being dispossessed in the area for a GK are just NOVICE mate. Every striker in the country knows what to do to Foster now, and believe me he will be besieged with oncoming harrassment as he tries EVER so slowly to clear his box with kicks out
.
September 21st, 2009 at 1:48
@Footy4Eddy: Eddy, you have to take each player on their merits. You can’t make a thematic example just because of Fletcher’s progress.
Players are good or bad and the idea that our influence could affect that is not realistic.
I would imagine Rooney will play better next time, but I’m not sure about the 26 year old Foster.
I think that when you assess a players potential, one of the key ingredients is the way he handles the toughest of circumstances. I think Ando is learning this trait, but Foster is fluffing his opportunity.
As a goalie you do not make fundamental mistakes that puts your teams success in jeopardy
Foster continues to ignore all of this and will now face a difficult time in his career!!
September 21st, 2009 at 1:55
@Grognard: Well I think RR is wrong when he says “we just need an attacking MF”.
I’ve always thought we need a striker as well. Berbatov offers a lot but he’s not really a striker is he??
His conversion rate is pathetic, and still looks like a deer in the headlights when approaching a 50/50/ ball.
September 21st, 2009 at 7:43
@Redrich: Having a midfielder who can drive forward brings Berbatov more into the fray as a holding striker. There can be more one-twos and it can actually make our system far more dynamic and extremely hard to mark. We have Berbatov, spent shitloads on him, and I think the only way to make him work for our system is to ensure there’s a lot more dynamism around him with him as a fulcrum. Of course, he has been terribly unlucky, and as a result seems to be going through a trough, as far as confidence goes. It’s a vicious cycle and the sooner he snaps out of it the better for us. He can’t seem to buy a goal at present which is sad.
September 21st, 2009 at 8:19
@Red Ranter: It’s not about moral high-ground. It is sad when people start making excuses for lying. In my books, lying is lying and shows disrespect. If I’m taking a moral high-ground, does that mean you would prefer someone to treat you like an idiot by telling you lies, because that is what you want to hear?
How exactly did Ronaldo apologise when he still lied at the same time? In fact, I can’t really recall any apology at all. He just woooed the fans over with his goals as he said he would do. At least it shows the intelligence he posess, compared to that of the fans.
September 21st, 2009 at 8:28
@Karl: To be honest I’ve made my peace with lying. I take truth and lies in my stride as far as football managers and players go. I don’t get worked up over lying as such, but rather the way Tevez whinged playing the victim card. But I also recognize that speaking truth at times amounts to stupidity. A lot of times I can see right through Ferguson when he lies about certain things, but I let all of that slide because I recognise the position he’s in. He has to lie a lot of times. His primary job is to protect his players at all costs, and if that means he has to lie then yes, I will fully support that. I’m not stupid enough to believe the shite shoved down my throat, but I won’t haul the manager or players if they lie because it protects the squad chemistry.
To you lying is lying, but to me lying is very subjective and can even be a virtue at times. If that makes me morally bankrupt then so be it. In football, in my book any action that puts the team above everything else goes (as long as no one is hurt).
Also Ronaldo apologised about the way he went about things in summer 08/09. I am off to bed right now, but remind me later, and I’ll give you links to quotes where he held his hand up.
September 21st, 2009 at 8:46
@Red Ranter: Not necessary for quotes. Even if there are, it won’t mean much because there is no sincerity in it.
I know now where you stand on this, and can respect your view (even though I might not agree with it, it seems to be that of the masses).
All I ask in return is for the same back because I as stupid as it may seem, that is my belief-system. That is why hypocrisy grieve me so much and why I always make a point of highlighting it. I’m not going to take the easy route out of the masses.
September 21st, 2009 at 8:55
@Karl: It’s not that of the masses; there is a fundamental difference in that I am not afraid to question if there is something obviously bollocksy about what Ferguson says. I was completely disenchanted with Ronaldo, if you recall. Yet I am sure fans would give him a good reception because of the way he conducted himself and showed a willingness to say the right things. Whether they appeared sincere or not, anything he’d say wouldn’t appear sincere anyway after what he did that summer. However, he’s said not one word of bitterness towards the club, manager players nor have I heard one word of adverse words from the players either. There is enough evidence to show his professionalism. And I believe he really meant some of the goodwill towards the manager. Ferguson has never, ever given such gushing praise towards any player — not even Cantona — as he showered on Ronaldo before he left. I think despite all that superficiality, I think there has been a lot of genuineness in a lot of what he said about us.
And regarding your opinion, where have I not respected your view? I don’t dismiss people’s opinions like they didn’t matter, and you know that.
September 22nd, 2009 at 14:49
@Red Ranter: Never stated that you don’t show respect. Sorry if it came out that way.
What you say makes a lot of sense. However, I still feel he also don’t deserve the cheering.