It hurts

I’m a die-hard Manchester United fan; and today we were beaten by our arch-rivals Liverpool by 4-1.

 

I am hurting not because of the loss (well partly) but mostly because Liverpool didn’t have to play their best football to win at Old Trafford.  With a formidable defence all season, it was painful seeing United make poor individual decisions most of which led to Liverpool goals.

 

This game was about key moments – from Raina’s poor decision leading to a penalty to a string of United’s defensive errors.  Today the strongest defence in the league was breached; Vidic, Evra, Ferdinand and the versatile O’shea, producing poor passing and lack of judgement.  At the other end, United lacked their killer instincts, and could not produce that final ball.  I wouldn’t single out a player but United as a team were a mess today, and that hurts.

 

The presence of Torres, the heart of Gerard and the resilience of Mascherano were enough to keep United at bay.  Aurelio’s beautifully curled free-kick and Dossena’s wonderfully taken goal were great finishes.

 

I could get into the discussion that United had a day less to rest from their European triumph against Inter Milan, and that might have spurred these errors from fatigue, but what difference does it make.  The game is played on the field, and although Liverpool did not play their best, they beat us fair and square.

 

United’s lead at the top of the table is cut down to four points, and by the end of the weekend it might as well be three depending on Chelsea’s result. However, United have one game in hand and winning that will extend the gap.  United are still in pole position to win the league and today’s disappointment can only spur them on – although this psychological blow could see them slump, but I don’t see that happening.  I’m sure the gaffer’s words will put them straight today.

 

Although it hurts, I’m sure lifting that league trophy is the ultimate goal and I can see United do that come May.

 

Have a nice weekend.

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