Manchester United Unofficial Blog - ManUtd-Blog.Com

Arsenal 1 - 2 Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:36:00 +0000

Danny Welbeck's late strike gave Manchester United victory at Arsenal and kept them three points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City.

Valencia gets above Vermaelen to head United in front

After a quiet opening Ryan Giggs picked out Antonio Valencia to head United in front at the far post.

Arsenal improved after the break and although Robin van Persie missed a clear chance, he made amends by finding the bottom corner from 15 yards out.

But United won it as Valencia ghosted through and Welbeck lashed home.

A third successive defeat was harsh on the Gunners, who were in the ascendancy for much of the second period.

Whilst there was never any danger of a repeat of their 8-2 humiliation at Old Trafford in August, defensive concerns were evident again and they remain in danger of not qualifying for the Champions League, in which they have competed for the last 14 seasons.

Two of the great returning characters in the serial drama between two sides with 15 Premier League titles between them did not have lead roles, Thierry Henry failing a fitness test and Paul Scholes on the bench.

Arsene Wenger focused on his younger generation, former Southampton widemen Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain supporting Van Persie in attack against a United defence missing Rio Ferdinand because of back trouble.

The visitors were given added inconvenience defensively in the early stages by an injury to Phil Jones, who was stretchered off after twisting his ankle.

Despite the occasional burst from the lively Oxlade-Chamberlain the opening half an hour was played at a surprisingly low tempo.

With Arsenal unable to find their fluency it was United who began to pose more threat with their patient build-up play.

Patrice Evra eluded Alex Song and cut back from the byeline to Nani whose first-time effort from 10 yards was well kept out low to his right by Wojciech Szczesny.

Nani then exposed Johan Djourou's positional weakness down the United left, but produced neither a telling pass nor shot as the ball drifted harmlessly across goal.

However, United were ahead when Giggs was given time to curl in a delicious centre that Valencia attacked with more vigour than Thomas Vermaelen, again employed at full-back.

Such was Wenger's concern with Djourou on the opposite side that he brought on 18-year-old Nicholas Yennaris to replace him at half-time.

A slip by Chris Smalling should have given Arsenal an equaliser, Tomas Rosicky unselfishly laying the ball back to Van Persie, who weaved round two defenders but blazed his shot wide.

Arsenal finally began to construct some useful passing patterns and after Oxlade-Chamberlain squared to Aaron Ramsey the Welshman jinked into a shooting position, only to fire over.

United still presented concerns to Arsenal's fragile backline and Welbeck outpaced Per Mertesacker.

The Arsenal defender appeared to clip Welbeck outside the area but the England striker stayed on his feet and touched past Szczesny, though Mertesacker was able to hook off the line.

A classically constructed move then brought Arsenal level.

Laurent Koscielny calmly played his way out of defence and found Rosicky, who picked out Oxlade-Chamberlain with a crossfield pass. The winger jinked inside and delivered a perfectly-timed pass for Van Persie to dispatch.

To the dismay of the Arsenal faithful, who could sense victory, Oxlade-Chamberlain was withdrawn in favour of the rather less popular Andrey Arshavin, and the Russian did nothing to endear himself by failing to halt Valencia's marauding run into the box, with Welbeck slamming home the loose ball nine minutes from time.

From BBC

Manchester United defender Phil Jones set for X-ray

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 03:30:00 +0000

Manchester United defender Phil Jones is to have an X-ray after suffering a facial injury in the 5-0 win at Fulham.

Jones appeared to take a knock to the face in a challenge with Fulham forward Clint Dempsey early on in the first half at Craven Cottage.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said: "Phil Jones got an elbow to the jaw and we'll send him for an X-ray. It doesn't look good."

Ashley Young will also be out for two to three weeks with a knee problem.

The winger was forced off in the second half after a challenge from Dickson Etuhu and is likely to miss the whole festive period.

Defender Rio Ferdinand missed Wednesday's win because of a knock and will not be fit for the Boxing Day clash with Wigan.

"Rio will maybe be back for the Blackburn game on New Year's Eve," said Ferguson.

"Phil [Jones] is a concern and Ashley is out for two or three weeks. It was an elbow [on Jones], but I don't think it was intentional.

"I thought the challenge on Ashley Young was aggressive. We're all right in the striker department, it's in other areas we are picking up injuries."

Man Utd's current injury list

Nemanja Vidic (knee)
Rio Ferdinand (knock)
Darren Fletcher (illness)
Michael Owen (thigh)
Anderson (knee)
Tom Cleverley (ankle)
Fabio (hamstring)
Phil Jones (jaw)
Ashley Young (knee)

From BBC

Fulham 0 - 5 Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 03:28:00 +0000

Manchester United shrugged off injuries to Phil Jones and Ashley Young to thrash a lifeless Fulham side.

Ryan Giggs maintained his record of scoring in every Premier League season

Danny Welbeck's close-range finish was added to by a header from Nani and a deflected Ryan Giggs effort in a first half United completely dominated.

Wayne Rooney smashed in from 30 yards before Dimitar Berbatov's audacious backheeled finish late on.

The win sees United stay in second place in the Premier League, two points behind leaders Manchester City.

Jones required extensive treatment after catching a stray Clint Dempsey elbow to the face in the opening minutes.

Referee Mark Halsey did not give a foul for the challenge but Dempsey was lucky to escape a card after striking Jones with his left elbow.

After a lengthy stoppage Jones continued as United took an early lead.

Nani collected the ball on the halfway line, drifted past Bryan Ruiz, and carried the ball unchallenged 50 yards down the left before picking out Welbeck for a crisp finish from seven yards.

Jones was called into action to deny Ruiz with a fine tackle before succumbing to his injury.

Young came on for United, with Antonio Valencia switching to right-back, before more slack defending from the home side allowed Nani to head the second.

Fulham switched off as Giggs took a quick corner to Valencia. He played it back to Giggs, whose cross was headed in by Nani with the lurking Rooney unable to add a touch.

United killed the game off just before half-time through veteran Giggs.

Again the visitors were afforded far too much time and space as Nani ambled into penalty area before teeing up the 38-year-old Welshman. Giggs's shot took a huge deflection off Philippe Senderos and looped over the head of goalkeeper David Stockdale.

Substitute Young was then forced off after the break with what looked like a knee injury after a challenge from Dickson Etuhu, as Fulham made some belated improvement.

Dempsey saw a header saved by Anders Lindegaard, Moussa Dembele shot wide and John Arne Riise smashed a free-kick past the post.

Andrew Johnson then twice should have done better for Fulham before United hit two late goals.

Rooney - making his 300th Premier League appearance - advanced from midfield and drilled a fine shot in off the far post, before substitute Berbatov provided a touch of class in stoppage time with his 50th goal for the club.

Valencia exchanged passes with Nani before breaking into the penalty area and squaring for Berbatov.

The ball was behind the Bulgarian but he was able to backheel the ball past Stockdale into the corner.

Fulham manager Martin Jol: "I am angry and disappointed. They had eight attempts on goal and scored five goals. They played around us on the flanks and we did not defend well. Nani scored a header which tells you all.

"We let ourselves down. We improved and could have scored a few but it is easy when you are 3-0 down.

"They have a lot of quality but we were not aggressive enough. Conceding early is not good for your confidence. It was too easy for them.

"We have to pick ourselves up because there are a lot of teams on the same amount of points."

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson: "The performance in the first half was as good as we have played all season in fairness. You think the third goal would kill Fulham but they came out very aggressive in the second half.

"They changed the pattern of the game but on the counter we always looked a threat."

From BBC

QPR 0 - 2 Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:28:00 +0000

Manchester United maintained the pressure on Manchester City at the Premier League summit with a comfortable win against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road.

Rooney took his club tally for the season to 15 goals in all competitions

Wayne Rooney set them on the way to a victory that restored them to the top of the table - if only for a few hours - with a header inside the first minute.

And after United missed a succession of chances and were denied by QPR keeper Radek Cerny, Michael Carrick settled an entertaining encounter and gave them the winning margin their vast superiority deserved with his first goal in 70 games for United, shortly after half-time.

QPR were tenacious but were eventually outclassed by United's greater quality, as Sir Alex Ferguson's side continued their rehabilitation from their shock Champions League exit with a second successive league win to maintain their pursuit of a 20th title.

With Darren Fletcher ruled out for the foreseeable future through illness, Carrick was paired with Phil Jones in central midfield. And the versatile England teenager could also have got on the scoresheet in a powerful and impressive performance, hitting the woodwork and being halted by Cerny after a surging run.

United still showed occasional signs of frailty in defence without injured captain Nemanja Vidic and with Patrice Evra particularly vulnerable, but they ultimately carried far too much power for QPR, especially with Rooney restored to his familiar attacking role after a spell in midfield.

The visitors were unchanged from the win against Wolves - but had the lift of the early return of Javier Hernandez on the bench after suffering an ankle injury in the recent win at Aston Villa.

It was Rooney who made the instant impact as he stole in on Antonio Valencia's cross to send a downward header beyond the reach of Cerny in the opening seconds to subdue a typically vibrant atmosphere inside Loftus Road.

United's slick passing was proving too much for QPR in the early exchanges and Cerny needed to dash off his line to block Danny Welbeck after he was played in by Nani.

QPR, however, showed real reserves of resilience to dig their way back into a match that looked well beyond them at the start, with striker Heidar Helguson taking advantage of weakness in United's defence as he headed Joey Barton's cross just over.

For all the typical endeavour of Warnock's side, it was United who showed thrust going forward as they created a succession of chances before the interval.

Jonny Evans headed on to the bar from a corner, while Cerny saved QPR again after 28 minutes when he dived at the feet of Jones after Rooney's incisive pass sent him racing clear.

Cerny, heroic in QPR's defeat at Liverpool last week, was in outstanding form again as he demonstrated agility and sharp reflexes to save from Valencia as he looked certain to add United's second.

QPR refused to go under in the face of United's attacking threat and created opportunities of their own as the interval approached. United keeper David de Gea blocked Helguson's shot with his legs before Jay Bothroyd's low cross flew agonisingly beyond the stretching Jamie Mackie.

United were in no mood to let any more chances slip away - and they duly punished QPR nine minutes after the break, with more than a little help from the Londoners.

Carrick dispossessed Barton with ease and advanced unchallenged towards the area before scoring with a low shot that Cerny should have made a better attempt to keep out.

It was a rare, albeit vital, blemish on Cerny's performance and he was soon distinguishing himself again with a spectacular save from Welbeck, who was promptly removed and replaced by Hernandez.

QPR, understandably, were showing signs of deflation and Jones almost increased their lead further only to strike a post, before Cerny was the barrier once more to save from Nani.

Adel Taarabt and DJ Campbell were introduced in a double change by Warnock as time ran out and created their side's best chance of the game. Taarabt's cross should have been converted by the striker, who somehow put his effort off target from right in front of goal.

It was United's final moment of anxiety - and with the door left ajar in the title race by Manchester City's first defeat of the season at Chelsea on Monday, United will be delighted with another important victory.

From BBC

No transfer panic at Man Utd - Sir Alex Ferguson

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:26:00 +0000

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists he will not panic buy during the January transfer window.

Ferguson in no rush to replace Fletcher

A knee injury has ended Nemanja Vidic's season and Darren Fletcher is taking an extended break for health reasons.

With Anderson sidelined by a long-term knee problem and Javier Hernandez and Tom Cleverley also out of action, United's resources are stretched.

But Ferguson insists he will not buy "unless someone appears we have always been interested in".

United were knocked out of the Champions League following defeat to Basel, and their growing injury list prompted former midfielder Paul Ince to tell BBC Sport they need to buy a striker.

However, asked if he would bolster his squad in the new year, Ferguson said: "Not necessarily. I don't know why people keep going on about it."

Midfielder Fletcher has not played for three weeks, an absence United had put down to a virus.

However, this week the club confirmed he was suffering from ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition.

"We spoke about a virus to protect Darren but it got to the point (where) people were delving," said Ferguson.

"It was getting uncomfortable so we decided to make it public. That was the big decision.

"He has been in hospital for a few days."

Ferguson revealed that striker Dimitar Berbatov is fit after ankle trouble and teenage midfielder Paul Pogba could also feature in Sunday's Premier League clash with QPR at Loftus Road.

Pogba, 18, has made three substitute appearances in the Carling Cup this season, but Ferguson admitted on Friday the club are finding it "difficult" to deal with the player's agent.

After being part of last season's FA Youth Cup winning side, Pogba has so far turned down the chance of signing a contract extension at Old Trafford.

Ferguson said: "We are negotiating and we want the boy to stay. If he doesn't want to there is not a lot you can do about it. You just hope he gets the right advice.

"We have an option on his contract so in that respect there is not a great emergency. But if he wants to be a Manchester United player he knows what to do.

"Matt Busby summed it up perfectly when he said you don't need to chase money at a club like Manchester United," added Ferguson.

"He said it will eventually find you if you are a good enough player."

From BBC

Manchester United could be handed Champions League place

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 03:25:00 +0000

Manchester United could return to this season's Champions League if the Swiss Football Association fails to comply with Fifa and punish FC Sion.

Swiss side FC Basel knocked Manchester United out of the Champions League

Sion were thrown out of the Europa League for fielding ineligible players in their match against Celtic.

The Swiss FA has until 13 January to act and Fifa has threatened to suspend Switzerland and their club sides.

If the ban took effect, FC Basel would be ejected from the Champions League and United could be reinstated.

The Swiss champions knocked Sir Alex Ferguson's side out of European football's elite competition and into the Europa League, earning a 3-3 draw at Old Trafford before winning the home match 2-1.

Sion were put under a transfer embargo over the signing of Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El Hadary, but proceeded to sign six players in the summer.

The six players took their case to a civil court in the canton of Valais, which ruled they could play, and subsequently fielded them in the Swiss league.

Sion then fielded five of the six players during the Europa League play-off tie against Celtic and were kicked out of the competition as a result, with Uefa's decision to expel them upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Thursday.

Fifa has now ordered the Swiss FA to enforce a ban on registering six Sion players signed during the transfer embargo.

"As a consequence, all matches in which the relevant players participated shall be declared forfeit or three points shall be deducted respectively," Fifa said. "Should this deadline not be respected, the Swiss FA will be automatically suspended from 14 January 2012 onwards."

Under the terms of a Fifa suspension, a country's national and club teams, referees and officials are prohibited from taking part in international matches and meetings, or receive Fifa funding.

Uefa said it was confident the Swiss Football Association would comply with the Fifa request before the January 13 deadline. "Should this not be the case Uefa will review the situation nearer the time," added European football's governing body in a statement.

From BBC

Manchester United's Darren Fletcher takes 'extended break'

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:17:00 +0000

Manchester United and Scotland midfielder Darren Fletcher is taking an extended break from football for health reasons.

A United statement said the player, 27, has been suffering from ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition.

The club said Fletcher had "accepted medical advice to take an extended break... in order to afford the best chance possible of achieving full remission once again."

It added: "Darren's continued desire to play and his loyalty to both club and country has probably compromised the chances of optimising his own health and fitness.

"We request that his privacy is respected and hope that the removal of the additional stress associated with speculation regarding his health will also aid his recovery."

Fletcher signed a new four-year deal with United in March, securing his place with the club until 2015.

From BBC

Man Utd 4 - 1 Wolverhampton

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:14:00 +0000

Wayne Rooney and Nani both scored twice as Manchester United gave the perfect response to their Champions League exit with a commanding win over Wolves.

Rooney's strike partnership with Welbeck is starting to blossom for United

Nani cut inside from the left and blasted the opener into the corner before Rooney made it 2-0 with a low drive from the edge of the area.

Steven Fletcher gave Wolves a lifeline with a header just after half-time.

But United hit back with Antonio Valencia setting up Nani for a tap-in and crossing for Rooney to rifle home.

United put their miserable surrender in Basel behind them in a display brimming with positive intent and attacking verve.

And in the week when Rooney's three-match England ban was reduced to two by European football's governing body Uefa, the striker ended an eight-game Premier League goal drought with two authoritative finishes.

While Wolves boss Mick McCarthy's decision to field an attacking 4-4-2 formation merely played into United's hands, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson's tactics paid off, as he made four changes to the side that lost 2-1 in Switzerland.

Phil Jones produced a confident attacking performance alongside Michael Carrick in midfield and Valencia - brought in at Ashley Young's expense - proved a constant threat on the right wing.

The victory ensured United closed the gap on Premier League leaders Manchester City to two points, with Roberto Mancini's side heading to Chelsea on Monday.

The game might have taken a different course had Fletcher not sliced wide after being teed up in space on the edge of the box in the first minute.

But United soon settled into their rhythm, with Valencia enjoying plenty of space down the right and crossing for Carrick, whose diving header flew just over the bar.

Carrick then played a ball inside right-back Ronald Zubar for Rooney, whose shot from a tight angle was sharply saved by Wayne Hennessey.

Moments later, Nani cut in from the left-hand side before unleashing a powerful shot into the corner from 20 yards.

The second goal arrived in similar fashion, with Rooney this time darting across the edge of the box and smashing a shot through a crowd of players past an unsighted Hennessey.

Wolves got themselves back in the game shortly after half-time as Matt Jarvis crossed from the left for Fletcher to head his 11th goal in 16 games into the roof of the net.

The goal only served to reawaken United, who re-established their two-goal lead when Jones threaded a pass to Valencia, who crossed low for Nani to convert from six yards.

Valencia rounded off a fine afternoon's work with the assist for the fourth goal as his cross picked out Rooney to beat Hennessey with a powerful low shot on the turn.

Another marauding run from Jones almost produced a fifth goal but Hennessey did well to foil Federico Macheda at the near post.

Wolves' sixth away league defeat in eight games leaves them just three points clear of the relegation zone.

From BBC

Manchester's woeful Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:07:00 +0000

Manchester United and Manchester City have both crashed out of the Champions League after a dismal night for the Premier League's top two.

Ferguson and Mancini must content themselves with the Europa League

United suffered a humiliating 2-1 defeat to Swiss Champions Basel, while City beat Bayern Munich 2-0 but were ousted by Napoli's win in Villarreal.

While London clubs Arsenal and Chelsea continue to mix it with the cream of the continent, United and City are now consigned to Thursday nights in the Europa League.

In the wake of Manchester's woeful Wednesday, former players and pundits have been giving their reaction.

Former Manchester United midfielder and ITV summariser Roy Keane: "I think [going out] reflects what United have done in truth - they haven't scored enough goals and they haven't beaten Basel or Benfica.

"People have talked about the young players - you've had [Phil] ones, [Chris] Smalling, [Ashley] Young coming in, everybody building them up but they've got a lot to do, it's a reality check for some. I'd be getting hold of some of those lads, saying 'you'd better buck up your ideas'.

"I think their best player tonight was Ryan Giggs. That sums it up - he's 37 or 38, you can't be depending on him. United got what they deserved tonight.

"It's a reality check for the Premier League and I wouldn't look beyond the Spanish teams Real Madrid and Barcelona this season."

BBC Radio 5 live pundit Mark Lawrenson: "When the draw came out, we all thought Manchester United had a bye. You have to say credit to FC Basel. They scored five goals in two games against Manchester United and took four points off them.

"I'm not a student of FC Basel's history but I think this is probably their best result ever.

"There is a big difference between City and United. United have been used to marrying the Premier League and the Champions League for years; City will gain from the experience. When Real Madrid and Barcelona hear about the Manchester United result, they will react in disbelief.

"I think we were all surprised when United did not sign a creative midfield player at the start of the season. David De Gea is only 20 and at the beginning of the season his mistakes were being swept under the carpet because United were winning.

"But he has continued to make mistakes."

Former Manchester City defender Danny Mills on BBC Radio 5 live: "When this group stage came out United were a certainty to go through, but they have got it completely wrong. Disastrous results at home have cost them dear and I don't think they did enough here tonight to test the goalkeeper.

"It was a disappointing performance, especially in the second half when they never really went for it.

"Questions have to be asked of David De Gea. Is he the right man to replace Edwin van der Saar? I'm not so sure."

Former United captain and Sky Sports summariser Gary Neville: "It will be a low point and a huge disappointment. I was part of the last team who did not qualify [in 2005-06] and at that point we felt we couldn't get any lower - we hadn't won the league for three years. You have to react in the next game.

"United will be more disappointed than City. City need to improve and progress and get used to playing in the Champions League."

Basel goalkeeper Yann Sommer: "It's incredible. A Swiss team, a little country, against Manchester United, one of biggest teams in the world - it's crazy. But we believed in our strength and we fought until the end, this was the key.

"Manchester are a good team, they had a lot of pressure and sometimes we were a bit lucky not to concede, and this is a crazy night. We are through and Manchester are out - it's super."

Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas on Twitter: "Two English teams and two Spanish out of the Champions League. European football is very strong."

Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny on Twitter: "I don't agree with De Gea criticism. He's potentially one of the best GK in the world but needs time to get his confidence at Man United. You have to perform at your best every game when you play for big clubs and when De Gea is at his best he is unreal. Give him some time..."

From BBC

Nemanja Vidic's knee injury adds to Man Utd's woes at Basel

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:06:00 +0000

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic suffered suspected medial ligament damage in their 2-1 defeat at Basel in the Champions League.

Nemanja Vidic needed to be carried off after injuring his right knee

"We don't know with Vidic, we think it's certainly a medial ligament [injury]," said boss Sir Alex Ferguson on a disappointing night for his side.

Ferguson added: "Hopefully, that is the worst of it."

Vidic twisted his right knee tussling with Basel's Marco Streller during the first half in Switzerland.

The United defender and Streller chased down the ball and their legs tangled. The Serbia international immediately looked in distress and called for medical assistance.

Vidic was carried off on a stretcher then left the ground on crutches.

United were knocked out of the competition after their defeat at Basel.

From BBC

FC Basel 2 - 1 Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:04:00 +0000

Manchester United failed to advance past the Champions League group stage for only the third time in 17 years after a humiliating defeat at Basel.

Rooney and his team-mates must now make do with Europa League football

The three-time European champions and reigning Premier League winners went behind to Marco Streller's strike after poor defending and a goalkeeping error.

They lost captain Nemanja Vidic to a bad knee injury before hitting the bar.

Alexander Frei nodded a second before Phil Jones's late header left United a goal short of the draw they needed.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men, who have reached three of the past four Champions League finals, finished third in Group C as Benfica and Basel reached the knockout stage.

Ferguson and his players looked shell-shocked at the end and they will now have to make do with Europa League football.

Basel are into the last 16 for only the second time in their history, caretaker manager Heiko Vogel capping his short spell in charge with an historic triumph.

Questions will be asked of United goalkeeper David de Gea, who ought to have prevented Streller's opener, while Vidic may have a serious knee problem.

United arrived at St Jakob Park knowing a point would be enough to send them through but - with defeat meaning certain elimination - Ferguson cautioned against the complacency that saw Basel almost snatch victory at Old Trafford in September.

They got off to a vibrant start, passing and moving with urgency to deny their opponents possession and threaten an early breakthrough. For the first nine minutes, Basel barely had a touch as an attack-mined United line-up rampaged forward.

However, the hosts managed to limit their opponents to only one sight of goal in the time, a harmless Park strike that sailed well over the bar, and United's failure to capitalise on their dominance was punished with the first meaningful Basel attack.

A collision between Vidic and Chris Smalling allowed Xherdan Shaqiri to collect a cross on the left and, with Smalling in a daze on the floor, he produced a low centre.

Instead of gathering the ball, De Gea poked it away with his foot and Streller was able to place a powerful half-volley into the net.

United went into their shells and it was not until the 29th minute that they mustered a response - one from which they should have equalised.

Nani's cross from the right teed Rooney up for a routine close-range finish, but he miscued a shot he would usually bury and Park could not convert the follow-up.

That seemed to inject life into United, and Rooney was denied by goalkeeper Yann Sommer from a Giggs reverse pass before seeing a penalty shout turned down.

Nani was causing no shortage of problems but Basel held firm, and United's evening took a turn for the worse when Vidic twisted his right knee in a challenge with Streller.

He left the field on a stretcher in clear discomfort, but his team ploughed on and Rooney saw an angled strike sail narrowly wide at the start of the second half.

Basel continued to defend for their lives while occasionally threatening on the break.

The ever-dangerous Shaqiri curled a shot just wide and De Gea saved well from an Alexander Frei free-kick.

United responded with a Nani cross that Markus Steinhofer volleyed on to his own bar but then came the decisive blow, Frei ghosting in behind Smalling at the back post to head home Shaqiri's cross.

Jones forced a header over the line after Danny Welbeck was denied from close range and fellow substitute Federico Macheda hit the woodwork, but it was too little, too late.

From BBC

Aston Villa 0 - 1 Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 06:55:00 +0000

Phil Jones scored the first goal of his career as Manchester United ground out their fourth one-nil win in five league games to beat Aston Villa.

Phil Jones scored his first career goal in his 63rd senior appearance

The 19-year-old side-footed home Nani's cross from the left in the first half.

The visitors were always in control, but James Collins might have snatched a point when his late header was tipped over by Anders Lindegaard.

Injuries to Javier Hernandez, Shay Given and Jermaine Jenas marred a fairly insipid contest.

City's 5-1 demolition of Norwich put the pressure on United, who knew defeat would leave them eight points behind their big-spending rivals.

But this particular test was passed with considerable ease as United returned to second in the table with the win.

The blue half of Manchester might be sitting pretty at the summit, but they will be acutely aware of the trophy-winning pedigree their neighbours possess.

It was not a lesson in football at Villa Park, but it was a masterclass in how to grind out results - the type of which have helped United win 12 titles in the last 20 years.

They dominated possession, looked solid at the back and always seemed to have an extra gear going forward.

However, United had to overcome an early setback when striker Hernandez was taken off with suspected ankle ligament damage, sustained when he got his studs caught in the turf.

Antonio Valencia was brought on in his place, with Nani pushed up front alongside Wayne Rooney, and Villa had no answer to the pace, movement and skill of the new-look front three.

So it was no surprise when Jones put the visitors in front.

Playing in midfield, the versatile 19-year-old timed his run into the box to perfection to confidently stroke home Nani's nicely-flighted cross.

The chances kept coming with Given making a good save from Nani's header and Valencia's 35-yard shot sailing just over as United tried to turn the screw.

The game's injury jinx struck again when Given was taken off with a hamstring injury as the problems piled up for the shot-shy Villans.

After being booed off at half-time, the hosts were brighter in the second half and Emile Heskey should have done better when he headed over the bar from three yards out after Richard Dunne had steered the ball towards goal from a corner.

It was a poor finish, symptomatic of the problems faced by the Midlanders since the goals have dried up in recent weeks.

Alex McLeish left winger Charles N'Zogbia out of his starting line-up because of a breach of club discipline, but the home side could have done with the sort of spark their £9.5m summer signing can provide.

There was plenty of industry from Barry Bannan, Marc Albrighton and Jenas, but very little in the way of flair.

Lindegaard was making only his fifth appearance of the season in the United goal, with Ferguson opting to rest David de Gea, and the Dane was rarely troubled on his way to a third successive Premier League clean sheet of the campaign.

He did, however, make a fantastic fingertip save from a James Collins header with 15 minutes remaining.

Rooney, who pulled the strings for United alongside Nani and Jones, might have sealed victory when he blazed over with just three minutes remaining.

But United closed out the match without any further alarms to stay within striking distance of Roberto Mancini's pacesetters.

The performance of Jones, in particular, was significant for the Red Devils with England manager Fabio Capello's assertion that the teenager can be a star in both defence and midfield looking to be a fairly sound judgement.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson:

Phil Jones took his goal very well. It was a good time to score and it settled us down.

It was a solid performance and winning away from home in the Premier League is never easy.

I think we did well today.

From BBC

Manchester United's Javier Hernandez suffers ankle ligament injury

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 06:54:00 +0000

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez will be out for up to four weeks after tearing ankle ligaments.

Man Utd's 'rhythm' pleases Sir Alex Ferguson

The Mexican forward, who has scored six league goals this season, suffered the injury in the early stages of United's 1-0 win at Aston Villa on Saturday.

"I think he's torn ligaments in his ankle," said manager Sir Alex Ferguson, whose side are five points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City.

"He'll be out for between three and four weeks."

Hernandez was one of three players forced off during the match at Villa Park, with Shay Given and Jermaine Jenas also picking up fairly innocuous injuries.

With Michael Owen and Dimitar Berbatov already ruled out until Christmas at least, it leaves Ferguson short up front.

He will, however, have been cheered by the return from injury of England international Danny Welbeck, who stepped from the bench at Villa Park.

"We're having a bad time with injuries at the moment," added Ferguson. "It's just as well we've a strong squad."

Brazilian twins Rafael and Fabio and midfielders Tom Cleverley and Anderson are also on the sidelines.

Villa manager Alex McLeish has worries of his own after goalkeeper Given and midfielder Jenas were both replaced during the match.

"I'm not sure but I think Shay had a little tweak in his hamstring. Hopefully it's a grade one [tear] and will heal really quickly," McLeish said.

"As for Jermaine, we don't know, but we think he's had an injury to his Achilles but we will wait until the morning to see."

From BBC

Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson unhappy after penalty award

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 10:46:00 +0000

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says the decision to give Newcastle a penalty in his side's 1-1 draw at Old Trafford was a "travesty".

Newcastle penalty a 'travesty' - Ferguson

Referee Mike Jones gave the spot-kick after after assistant John Flynn flagged following Rio Ferdinand's tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa.

Ferguson said: "The referee thought it was a corner and he was nearer to the incident. It was an absolute travesty.

"The problem is that assistants are not full-time even if the referees are."

He added: "I don't think anyone in the ground thought it was a penalty apart from the assistant referee."

Ferguson supported his argument by referring to an incident in the recent home game against Sunderland when a linesman flagged for a penalty, only for referee Lee Mason to correctly give the decision in United's favour.

He said: "[In the Sunderland match] The linesman gave a penalty for a handball, which was obviously an opponent's hand.

"The referee was put in a terrible quandary, but he knew full well it was a handball from an opponent and overruled the linesman. That is what he should have done against Newcastle."

Javier Hernandez had given United a 49th-minute lead before Demba Ba's penalty pulled Newcastle level after referee Jones ruled Ferdinand had brought down Ben Arfa.

Manchester United striker Michael Owen, who is injured, tweeted: "The less said about the penalty decision the better. Unbelievable. Video technology just for goals or major decisions too?

"It took more time for the ref and linesman to come to that decision than it would for somebody to watch a replay and they still got it wrong."

It is understood Jones conferred with Flynn because the referee was not 100% sure whether it was a penalty or not.

In a statement to BBC Sport, the Premier League and Professional Game Match Officials said: "Our assistant referees are part-time and to date there has been no call from the clubs to make them full-time.

"Select group assistant referees do have high standards of training and performance monitoring.

"Over the course of the season the standard of their decision making is of an exceptional high standard."

The draw leaves United four points behind leaders and rivals Manchester City, who play Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, but asked whether the champions' rivals were getting too far ahead of his side, Ferguson quipped: "It would be - in April."

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew accepted his team had "got a break", although he did feel Ferdinand had taken a chance by sliding in.

"I thought the tackle was risky. He definitely played the ball. I have seen it," said Pardew.

"If it was against me I would be very aggrieved. We got a break but we still had to score the goal and Demba was very cool."

The draw leaves Newcastle in fourth place, and Pardew praised his side's resilience.

"Our attitude and defending deserved a point. The heroism in that penalty box was unbelievable. They were Geordie heroes," he said

From BBC

Man Utd 1 - 1 Newcastle

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 10:44:00 +0000

Manchester United were thwarted by a battling 10-man Newcastle side who benefited from a controversial penalty.

Hernandez's stoppage-time goal was ruled out for offside

Javier Hernandez gave the home side an early second-half lead after Wayne Rooney's volley ricocheted off Steven Taylor before hitting the Mexican.

Newcastle drew level through Demba Ba's spot-kick after Rio Ferdinand was adjudged to have fouled Hatem Ben Arfa.

Jonas Gutierrez was then sent off, Tim Krul made two great saves, Ashley Young hit the post, but the Magpies held on.

The pulsating draw leaves the champions four points behind rivals Manchester City, who travel to Liverpool on Sunday.

That Newcastle left Old Trafford with a point had much to do with Krul's superb goalkeeping performance and the visitors' ability to throw bodies in the way of the ball in a frantic final 12 minutes after Gutierrez's dismissal.

Krul somehow blocked Nemanja Vidic's fierce header and then pushed away Patrice Evra's shot, while Danny Simpson typified Newcastle's resilience when he cleared a Hernandez effort off the line.

At times in that thrilling conclusion Krul's goal seemed to be protected by a forcefield as Ashley Young rattled the post with a shot, while a last-gasp Hernandez goal was ruled out after the Mexican strayed offside when he poked home Ryan Giggs's cross.

If Newcastle rode their luck at times it was also a performance that adds to the growing body of evidence that the Magpies can continue to prosper this season after their fine start, with this draw keeping them in fourth.

In the opening half Alan Pardew's side looked to attack at every opportunity with Ben Arfa and Gabriel Obertan effective in creating chances with their vision and touch - both from the centre of the pitch as well as the flanks.

Ben Arfa produced the cutest of passes with the outside of his foot to scoop the ball over the hosts' defence to Ba, whose volley tested David de Gea.

A cross from Obertan, who was arguably the visitors' most effective player in that first half, created Newcastle's best chance with a cross from the right, but Ryan Taylor miscued with his volley.

However, that Newcastle went in at the break level was primarily to do with Krul's reactions.

Early on he saved twice from Hernandez before the Dutchman flung himself to his right to produce a fingertip save from the deftest of flicks from Giggs.

Just before the break Newcastle were handed a reprieve when Hernandez miscued with a shot when he probably should have scored.

Four minutes after the restart Hernandez finally broke the deadlock, though he must have known little about it.

Steven Taylor had fouled Hernandez to win a free-kick just outside the box and, although the Newcastle wall blocked Rooney's set-piece shot, the England striker was quickly onto the rebound.

His volley went deep into the Newcastle area before ricocheting off Steven Taylor and then off Hernandez into the net.

It was a desperately unlucky way to go behind, but the visitors were soon to profit from a contentious penalty that was awarded when Ben Arfa went down after a Ferdinand tackle.

Television replays appeared to show the United defender had won the ball cleanly but referee Mike Jones - after consultation with his assistant - awarded the penalty that Ba slotted in as De Gea went the wrong way.

The Manchester United goalkeeper produced a wonderful save to parry a Fabricio Coloccini effort, but once Gutierrez had been dismissed for a second yellow card, Newcastle had only the manpower to concentrate on defending their goal.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew: "We had some Geordie heroes, who showed they can compete with one of the best teams in Europe.

"Rio Ferdinand played the ball and the penalty was fortunate for us but we have a resilience in this team.

"We closed them down, made it difficult for them and were absolutely superb. We've shown we are a good side.

"Next week - when we play Chelsea - is a platform to show we can beat a top Premier League side."

From BBC

Sir Alex Ferguson confident Manchester United will qualify

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 06:16:00 +0000

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes his side will qualify for the Champions League knockout stages despite drawing with Benfica.

Manchester United need a point to qualify in their last game against Basel

United need a point against Basel in their last Group C game to reach the next round after the 2-2 result.

But hopes of topping the group look slim as they must better Benfica's result against pointless Otelul Galati.

"It will be a hard game in Basel. The chips are down but I have every confidence in the team," said Ferguson.

"Benfica should win at home against Galati but we need to win in style."

Ferguson's men fell behind to the Portuguese side, who have secured their passage to the next round, when Phil Jones deflected into his own net.

But they went ahead through goals by Dimitar Berbatov and Darren Fletcher, before gifting the visitors an equaliser a minute after taking the lead.

Goalkeeper David de Gea's poor clearance went straight to Benfica's Bruno Cesar and Pablo Aimar tucked in his cross.

"The goals were a bit freakish. An own goal and the bad kick out by David," Ferguson added.

"The pass back could have been better but David should have played it into the stands and we didn't hold onto the lead. We played well tonight, and the team deserved better. It's a cruel game at times."

From BBC

Man Utd 2 - 2 Benfica

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 06:15:00 +0000

Manchester United need a point in their last Champions League Group C game against Basel if they are to ensure qualification for the knockout stages after drawing with Benfica.

Berbatov heads in his first Champions League goal since 2008

United recovered from Phil Jones's third-minute own goal when Dimitar Berbatov headed in Nani's cross.

Darren Fletcher then ghosted in to prod past Artur to make it 2-1, but Pablo Aimar equalised from close range.

Berbatov and Rodrigo both had late chances to win it but were off target.

The United forward's chance was the better one as he volleyed over from Fabio's centre 12 minutes from the end.

But although Sir Alex Ferguson's side were without the injured Wayne Rooney, they will be frustrated to have thrown away a lead having worked so hard to establish themselves in the game.

Fletcher's goal on 59 minutes came after a sustained period of pressure on the visitors' goal, but Benfica's equaliser a minute later followed a poor clearance by United goalkeeper David de Gea.

The result means Benfica have already qualified, and United will need to better Benfica's efforts against Otelul Galati in the last round of games if they have any hopes of topping the group.

Still, the hosts may be content with the draw on a cold night, as they looked partially frozen when Benfica went ahead with a rapier-like attack.

Nicolas Gaitan, who has impressed in Portugal this season, was fed down the right and when he checked back onto his left foot, his cross hit Patrice Evra before Jones deflected into his own net.

Old Trafford was stunned but the fans began to shake off their disbelief when Nani went on several trademark dribbles, and Ashley Young had a shot saved.

Gaitan and Aimar were joining the Benfica midfield to run rings around Michael Carrick and Fletcher, but once United improved their passing out of defence, they started to create problems for the visitors.

Berbatov was playing in front of Young and was largely anonymous before he equalised.

And although there was a suggestion of offside to his header from Nani's centre, it was a fine strike as he notched his first Champions League goal since 2008, and his second this season.

The Bulgarian almost set up Young for a second moments after scoring, but Benfica keeper Artur produced a decent stop and Aimar was also denied by De Gea in a frantic five minutes.

United maintained their high tempo at the start of the second period as Young's shot was blocked by the impressive Ezequiel Garay, before Fabio tried to chip Artur.

With the pressure building on the Benfica defence, the hosts took the lead when Fletcher arrived in the box to poke in Evra's cross at the second attempt just before the hour.

That should have settled Ferguson's men with Carrick beginning to produce some clever passes, but their advantage only lasted a minute.

De Gea's short kick fell to Bruno Cesar, who dribbled into the United box and crossed for Aimar to equalise despite Rio Ferdinand's attempt to clear.

It would have left Ferguson fuming after his side had worked so hard to turn the game around, and the Benfica goal once again knocked United's rhythm.

With parity restored, Jorge Jesus's team began to show the same confidence they had in the first 15 minutes, although Berbatov could have had a second when he volleyed over from 10 yards.

Perhaps United would have been satisfied with the result after Rodrigo went close in the dying stages, but they can afford to show little of the same carelessness when they travel to Switzerland to face Basel.

From BBC

Man Utd 1 - 0 Sunderland

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 13:19:00 +0000

Sir Alex Ferguson celebrated the 25th anniversary of his appointment as Manchester United manager with victory over Sunderland - but it was not a game to match the occasion.

Ferguson's 25 years in charge were marked in a ceremony before the game

United honoured the landmark by announcing that Old Trafford's North Stand would be renamed after Ferguson.

They also revealed a statue of the Scot has also been commissioned that will be unveiled before the start of next season.

The party mood swirling around the stadium as Ferguson took centre stage was soon deflated by a game of low quality settled by former United defender Wes Brown's own goal in first-half stoppage time.

Sunderland boss and former United defender Steve Bruce has now failed to beat his mentor in 18 managerial meetings - but felt his side had been robbed of the opportunity to sour the celebrations when they were denied a late penalty.

The three points that keep United on the heels of Premier League leaders Manchester City were the gift Ferguson wanted most on the day Old Trafford took the opportunity to pay a lavish tribute to the legendary manager.

Ferguson entered through a guard of honour formed by both teams before joining chief executive David Gill in the centre circle - where he announced the naming of the stand in Ferguson's honour and his name was revealed from behind a veil erected on the giant structure.

The Scot then spoke of his pride at leading United for so long, but the 45 minutes that followed would not have made either Ferguson or his former captain Bruce proud.

Sunderland were forced into a change almost immediately when Connor Wickham fell awkwardly in an innocuous challenge and was stretchered off with an knee injury.

The rest of the half was virtually bereft of incident until stoppage time and Brown's unfortunate intervention as he unwittingly deflected Danny Welbeck's header from Nani's corner past keeper Keiren Westwood.

United almost extended their lead after 64 minutes when Javier Hernandez's header was cleared off the line by Kieran Richardson after he touched on another dangerous Nani corner.

The Black Cats thought they had the chance to equalise when assistant referee Jake Collin put his flag across his chest to indicate a spot-kick as substitute Ji-Dong Won made an aerial challenge with United's defenders.

Referee Lee Mason then consulted the official and awarded a free-kick for handball against the South Korean, much to Bruce's obvious disgust.

Keeper Westwood then ensured United did not extend their lead with 16 minutes left when he produced a magnificent double save to deny Wayne Rooney and then Patrice Evra, jumping to his feet to regain position and turn the defender's effort over the top.

Sunderland had enjoyed a fair share of possession and as they exerted pressure and Nicklas Bendtner was agonisingly close to getting a touch on Sebastian Larsson's delivery as it flew across the six-yard box.

It was the last serious scare for United as they held on to give Ferguson the victory he desired to mark the start of his 26th year at Old Trafford.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson:

"It was an anxious day for the players and I think they showed that today.

"They improved in the second half but that last 15 minutes was torture.

"Sunderland threw everything into it and played very well.

"I think the players wanted to do well for me and that showed. These occasions can be a bit that way.

"I remember when we celebrated the (50th) anniversary of the Munich air disaster and we lost to City here 2-0. It certainly got to the players that day no question and there was maybe a bit of that today."

From BBC

Everton 0 - 1 Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 15:22:00 +0000

Manchester United bounced back from last Sunday's 6-1 defeat by Manchester City as Javier Hernandez's goal gave them a hard-earned victory at Everton.

Hernandez's fourth goal of the season gave Manchester United victory

Hernandez was well-placed just two yards out to side-foot in Patrice Evra's cross in the 19th minute.

The goal was reward for a bright start from United, but they were matched by Everton for the remainder of the game.

However, Leighton Baines struck the crossbar with a free-kick and Louis Saha's shooting lacked precision.

A point would have been just reward for the efforts of David Moyes' side, but having failed to earn that they can take a lot of heart from a spirited display against opponents with a point to prove following a week of largely negative headlines.

For United, victory was all-important, with a stellar performance second, following their home humbling last weekend. They achieved the former, with only brief but impressive flashes of the latter.

There had been much debate this week over how United manager Sir Alex Ferguson would react to last Sunday's defeat in terms of team selection.

In the event, he dropped defender Rio Ferdinand and winger Nani, retained Jonny Evans, despite his red card against City, and restored Nemanja Vidic and Tom Cleverley to what was an attacking line-up, featuring Hernandez, Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney. The latter's every touch was greeted by the now standard jeers from the Everton support.

The approach initially paid dividends as United made positive and fluent early forays into Everton territory, one of which teed up Park Ji-sung, whose six-yard shot was saved by Tim Howard.

United capped their impressive start by taking the lead after 19 minutes, when Evra's pin-point cross from the left meant Hernandez had only to side-foot home from two yards out.

However, instead of kicking on, United shrank somewhat and Everton grew as a force in the game.

David de Gea was forced to save a Leon Osman snapshot and Jack Rodwell fired wide from 25 yards before Baines struck the crossbar with a free-kick from the edge of the area as the home side pressed hard for an equaliser.

Hernandez could have made the second half easier for his side had he finished a well-constructed move with his shot from the edge of the box, but Howard's save set up a tense second 45 minutes.

United's growing nervousness in defence was clear to see as Saha twice tested De Gea with shots from the edge of the area.

The visitors then almost gifted Everton an equaliser when Evans gave away possession. Fortunately for the defender, Rodwell's shot from an angle flew just past the far post.

With half an hour to go, Welbeck could have settled United nerves but his shot from close range, on an angle, was palmed over by Howard.

This left United needing to show resolution and composure in the final minutes of the match in the face of further pressure from the home side and - barring a home penalty appeal for a coming-together between substitute Magaye Gueye and Evra - they did so with aplomb.

From BBC

Manchester Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson praises disciplined display

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:32:00 +0000

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was pleased to see a more disciplined display by his side as they beat Aldershot in the Carling Cup.

Manchester United celebrate their opening goal against Aldershot

The 3-0 win follows Sunday's 6-1 trouncing by Manchester City - a performance Ferguson called "suicidal".

"The nature of Manchester United is to go and win the game, whether it's eight men, nine men, 10 men," he said.

"But tonight they kept their discipline, kept their professionalism - the players enjoyed that."

Having changed his entire starting XI, Ferguson was delighted as goals by Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Owen and Antonio Valencia earned the victory.

Defender Phil Jones was the only player in the squad at Aldershot's Recreation Ground to have played any part against Manchester City.

Although Dean Holdsworth's team had chances to score and had some good possession in the second half, Berbatov's 15th-minute opener settled the four-time League Cup winners before Owen scored just before half-time to help send them through to the last eight.

Ferguson was wary of the potential for another blow after Sunday's humiliation, and highlighted how hard Aldershot made his team work.

"Aldershot take a lot of credit because they kept pressing the ball and they worked their socks off and made us play," he told BBC Sport.

"It was an important night for us in that respect because in cup ties you can easily get knocked out - all it needs is a slice of luck. We're into the next round and that's the important issue."

Ferguson said he was pleased with the players who came into the team, including Tom Cleverley, who returned after an injury picked up in September, and Nemanja Vidic, who was rested against City on Sunday.

"I have a fantastic squad and it's been difficult for some because the team's consistency this season has been very good," he added.

"But we have a long season ahead and players like Valencia and Vidic got a good 90 minutes and I'm pleased about that because [Vidic] really needed that.

"Even early on I thought he was blowing hard - I think he always needed a game and that will bring him on a ton.

"Berbatov had a great game tonight, too, and Park Ji-sung, as he always does, had a tremendous work-rate and passing ability. The big bonus was to bring back Tom Cleverley."

Aldershot boss Holdsworth said he was content with his team's performance, despite the scoreline.

"I'm proud of their effort," he said. "They worked extremely hard and there's a lot to learn from playing against sides like that.

"When my players look at what the best do, there are a few lessons there. With my respect for Manchester United and the effort the boys put in, it was a fantastic occasion for the club."

The former Brentford, Wimbledon and Bolton player added: "We want more of this."

From BBC

Man Utd 1 - 6 Man City

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 15:18:00 +0000

Manchester City inflicted Manchester United's worst home defeat since February 1955 as they thrashed the champions in ruthless fashion to go five points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Balotelli scored twice as Manchester City humiliated United at Old Trafford

City were also the victors on that occasion 56 years ago, winning 5-0, but this visit was portrayed as a measure of their progress against the 19-time champions.

And Roberto Mancini's men could not have delivered a more-emphatic statement as Sir Alex Ferguson's side were humiliated.

It was the first time United had conceded six goals at Old Trafford since 1930, when Huddersfield won 6-0 and Newcastle 7-4 within four days of each other.

After being 1-0 at half-time, the second half turned into a scene of carnage at the so-called "Theatre Of Dreams" and the eventual margin of victory could have been even more convincing.

Mario Balotelli, in the headlines for accidentally setting his house ablaze with fireworks, put City on their way with goals either side of the interval as United struggled to contain the array of attacking talent in front of them.

United were reduced to 10 men when Jonny Evans was sent off earlier in the second half but City's superiority was such that they looked on course for a landmark victory from the moment they took the lead.

Sergio Aguero added a third and, even though Darren Fletcher pulled a goal back, this was only the signal for a late surge by City that brought three more goals and a result that will have sent shockwaves through the Premier League.

Substitute Edin Dzeko scrambled in a fourth, the magnificent David Silva ran clear to add another another before the Bosnian striker inflicted the final wound seconds from the end.

As Ferguson strode briskly towards the Stretford End at the final whistle, he was reflecting on the brutal reminder of the challenge now facing him from the club he branded "noisy neighbours" on a day when the entire Premier League landscape may have finally, and permanently, altered.

United's stature is such that one result must not bring the immediate announcement of a shift in the balance of power in Manchester - but the swathes of empty seats around Old Trafford and the wave of attacks pouring towards David de Gea's goal in the second half emphasised that City quite simply have greater firepower and talent in their squad at present.

Mancini left Samir Nasri and Dzeko on the bench - but was still able to exploit a wide range of attacking options in Balotelli, Silva and Aguero.

City were barely allowed any time to settle on the ball in the opening exchanges, with Ashley Young prominent and drawing heavy fouls from Micah Richards and James Milner.

So it was actually against the run of play that City took the lead after 22 minutes, courtesy of a stroke of casual quality from Balotelli. Silva was the creator but Balotelli, given too much time and space by Evans, finished sublimely with a stroked finish into De Gea's bottom corner.

Balotelli, in recognition of the latest chaotic events in his personal life, then revealed a t-shirt bearing the slogan "Why Always Me?" - and despite the good humour of his gesture was booked by referee Mark Clattenburg.

United's hopes of mounting a serious response suffered a blow within two minutes of the restart when Evans, who had endured a miserable afternoon, lost concentration and allowed Balotelli to steal in behind him. The defender's only reaction was to haul the Italian down, resulting in an inevitable red card.

The opportunity was there for City to overpower their arch-rivals and they accepted it as they went in search of further goals to emphasise their supremacy.

City doubled their lead on the hour with another superbly created goal from Balotelli. Silva cleverly played in Milner, who provided a cross that left the striker with the simplest of goals from close range.

Aguero had been quieter than his attacking colleagues but got in on the act after 69 minutes. The outstanding Milner played in Micah Richards and once again a delivery across the face of the goal proved too much for United, Argentine Aguero arriving to complete the formalities.

Mancini then removed Balotelli and introduced Dzeko, who almost scored a fourth within seconds of his arrival, only to see his shot drift inches wide.

And with United chasing a lost cause and leaving space at the back, Silva fired over from ten yards and Dzeko forced a fine save from De Gea when he was set free by the inspirational Spaniard.

United refused to give up even in the face of impossible odds and Fletcher offered some hope when he pulled one back with nine minutes left, striking a fine rising shot from 20 yards that gave Joe Hart no chance.

It was the goal for which the phrase "false dawn" was invented. Dzeko took advantage of good work from Lescott to score before Silva got the goal he deserved with a composed strike.

And with some United supporters actually pleading with referee Clattenburg to put them out of their misery, one more moment of brilliance from the magical Silva set up Dzeko for his second.

From BBC

Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson understands Nemanja Vidic red

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:46:00 +0000

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says he can understand why defender Nemanja Vidic was sent off during the victory over Otelul Galati.

United's players surround referee Felix Brych after Vidic's red card

Vidic was shown a straight red by German referee Felix Brych for a challenge on Gabriel Giurgiu in the second half of the 2-0 win in Romania.

Ferguson said: "I can understand the referee's interpretation.

"Maybe it's a bit different in Germany but I thought it was a little harsh. It was certainly a booking."

Vidic, who was returning to the United side after a spell on the sidelines with a calf injury, will receive an automatic one-match ban.

However, as was the case with Wayne Rooney's suspension for next summer's Europan Championship, Uefa could increase the 29-year-old's punishment to two or three matches, meaning he could miss the remaining Group C games.

Ferguson added: "I've looked at it and his foot is certainly high."

But the decision irritated United midfielder Michael Carrick, who claimed: "It was a dubious sending-off at best really and we're disappointed with that."

The win in Bucharest, courtesy of two second-half Rooney penalties, gave United their first Champions League success of the season following draws in their opening two group games against Benfica and FC Basel.

"I don't think we were lucky. We were the better team," said Ferguson.

"We dominated possession and improved in the second half, particularly through Nani, Anderson and Rooney. Those three players changed the game.

"I wasn't concerned at half-time but I knew what I needed to say to the players.

"We had possession but we didn't have any penetration. We needed more of that and, in the second half, we played Rooney further up the field. That made a difference.

"We are pleased after drawing the first two games. That created a certain pressure but we acquired a victory tonight and we're happy with that.

"They are a very hard-working and organised team. Their coach [former Romania midfielder] Dorinel Munteanu should be pleased. It's not easy to chase the ball all night and they should take credit for that."

From BBC

Liverpool 1 - 1 Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 14:40:00 +0000

Substitute Javier Hernandez earned Manchester United a point after England striker Wayne Rooney was left out of the starting line-up at Anfield.

Steven Gerrard has now scored six Premier League goals in this fixture

The Mexican levelled nine minutes from time after Steven Gerrard, making his first start since undergoing groin surgery in April, put Liverpool ahead with a 68th-minute free-kick.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson revealed he dropped Rooney after he was left "devastated" by the three-match ban that rules him out of England's Euro 2012 group games following his red card in Montenegro.

As well as Rooney, Ferguson also left Hernandez and Nani on the bench in a much-changed United team.

It looked like proving an expensive decision as Gerrard slotted a free-kick through the United wall to make it 1-0.

That was the signal for Ferguson to make changes - and Hernandez rescued a point with a close-range header.

Liverpool substitute Jordan Henderson almost snatched victory twice in stoppage time but United held on to end a run of three successive Premier League defeats at Anfield.

United were second-best for long periods as they struggled to adapt to an unfamiliar line-up and were ultimately fortunate to leave Merseyside with their unbeaten league run still intact.

And Ferguson was largely indebted to young keeper David de Gea, who has had his critics this season but made crucial saves to keep United in contention as they came under concerted pressure in the closing stages.

Ferguson, perhaps recalling how United had been comprehensively outfought in the 3-1 defeat at Liverpool last season, opted for a side with a more pragmatic look with Phil Jones moved into a midfield role.

And in an undistinguished opening, Jones had the best chance when he met Patrice Evra's cross at the far post but headed weakly off-target with what proved to be United's best chance of the first half.

Liverpool captain Gerrard then created confusion in the United six-yard area with a whipped cross - but the clearest opportunity fell to Luis Suarez in the 33rd minute. Charlie Adam's shot deflected invitingly into the Uruguayan's path but, after cleverly wrong-footing Jonny Evans, he was thwarted by De Gea's block.

It was Liverpool who once again carried the momentum after the break and the recalled Rio Ferdinand was booked for a foul on Suarez, whose confrontational approach and brilliant natural ability was proving hard to handle.

After Evra was also shown a yellow card following a prolonged bout of bickering which also involved Suarez, Ferguson decided on a double change by replacing Park Ji-sung and Ashley Young with Nani and Rooney.

As they stood waiting to come on, Liverpool took the lead as Gerrard showed what his side have been missing. United hotly contested the free-kick awarded when Adam tumbled under Ferdinand's challenge - and Gerrard steered a 20-yard free-kick past De Gea, thanks in no small part to Ryan Giggs jumping out of the wall.

Ferguson then made another change as Liverpool moved within sight of victory, sending on Hernandez for Jones in the hope that the Mexican's goal-poaching instincts could be the catalyst for a comeback.

And so it proved when Hernandez arrived with perfect timing on to Welbeck's flick from a corner to send a header flashing past Pepe Reina.

De Gea was United's hero again within seconds of Hernandez's equaliser, diving to his left to claw away Dirk Kuyt's shot as he got on the end of a superb cross from Stewart Downing.

Liverpool were still pressing for the winner in stoppage time with another substitute, Henderson, prominent. His angled finish was brilliantly turned away by De Gea and he also headed just over.

Defender Martin Skrtel should have done better than sky a chance into the Kop in the dying moments - and it was the Manchester United supporters who were happier with a point at the final whistle.

From BBC

Man Utd 2 - 0 Norwich

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 09:44:00 +0000

Manchester United edged past Norwich to retain their position at the top of the Premier League.

Anderson headed United into the lead just after the hour mark

Anderson headed in on 68 minutes before Danny Welbeck sealed the points after exchanging passes with Park Ji-sung.

The pattern of the game could have been different if Anthony Pilkington had taken one of two chances either side of United's opener.

But the Norwich winger shot wide when clean through and saw another effort hit the post on 75 minutes.

The hosts improved in the second period and could have extended their lead via Welbeck and Wayne Rooney, who returned to the United side after a hamstring injury.

However, they were made to work for the points on a glorious afternoon in Manchester, where the counter-attacking plans of Norwich boss Paul Lambert almost came to fruition.

Rooney clipped the bar when he was clean through late on, while Welbeck was inches from scoring before he settled nerves inside Old Trafford three minutes from time.

The relief inside the stadium was palpable as United sealed their 19th consecutive Premier League home win, especially as the visitors caused problems on the break from the beginning.

Early on, Elliott Bennett made good progress down the right but could not find an unmarked Steve Morison, while Wes Hoolahan tested the palms of Anders Lindegaard, who was making his first Premier League start.

But once Norwich had that brief attacking flurry, Sir Alex Ferguson's side were largely camped in their opponents' half as the Canaries concentrated on defensive duties.

United certainly had the majority of possession but they were pedestrian at times, with Darren Fletcher's flick from a corner the closest they came to scoring in the first half.

Ferguson made seven changes to the side from the 3-3 Champions League draw with Basel, in which he called his side's defending "careless", but after the early openings, they had little to defend against in the first half.

That changed early in the second period when Phil Jones made a great interception to stop Morison's cross reaching Hoolahan and Jonny Evans, in for Rio Ferdinand, took the sting out of Pilkington's effort.

Frustration began to grow within Old Trafford, not least when Pilkington was presented with the best chance of the game up to that point.

Bradley Johnson could not find his team-mate with a through ball but Antonio Valencia slipped, putting Pilkington clean through, only for the former Huddersfield man to shoot agonisingly wide.

Lambert and his backroom staff all had their heads in their hands and the Premier League newcomers were made to rue that chance minutes later.

From substitute Ryan Giggs' corner Jones nodded onto Rooney, who directed it towards Anderson for a close-range header to give home supporters a huge release.

That almost turned to despair soon after when Pilkington's shot was deflected against the post by the Brazilian.

But with the game becoming more open, substitute Welbeck played in Park down the right, before receiving the return pass and sliding in for his fifth goal of the season.

United could have made it 3-0 with further chances, but Norwich's Andrew Crofts also had a shot saved and his side can come away from this encounter with some reason to feel hard done by.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson: "They turned every counter attack into something positive, so that was a problem to deal with. But once we quickened the game up in the second half we were much better.

"We deserved to win because we had the most pressure and we tried to win the game as we always do. But even when it went to 1-0 they still had a go and opened up their game, and it became a very good game in the last 20 minutes."

Norwich boss Paul Lambert: "I thought we were excellent, we created chances as well, but one thing about coming to places like this is if you are creating chances you have to score.

"[Anthony Pilkington's chance] might have been the turning point but that is being harsh on him. That's not to blame Anthony for what happened at the other end, we got caught at a corner and against a quality team like that you get punished. But we played well."

From BBC

Paul Scholes understands Carlos Tevez's refusal to play

noreply@blogger.com (anhtuan9622) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Paul Scholes says he understands why Manchester City's Carlos Tevez apparently refused to warm up against Bayern Munich.

Scholes played alongside Tevez at Manchester United between 2007 and 2009

Ex-Manchester United midfielder Scholes was unwilling to play in a League Cup tie in 2001, having been dropped for the previous game against Liverpool.

He stated what he did was "equally bad if not worse" than Tevez's situation.

"I know Carlos quite well. He's a player who wants to be playing," Scholes told BBC Radio 5 live.

"When he's a sub, it will be killing him.

"It's totally up to the manager but Carlos wouldn't have been thinking that. He'll be thinking, 'The manager is against me, why is he not bringing me on? I'm City's best player and he's not playing me'.

"I'm not saying he [Tevez] is right - it's totally up to the manager."

Scholes, 36, refused to play for Sir Alex Ferguson after being selected in a weakened team for a November 2001 League Cup defeat by Arsenal, a day after being dropped for a Premier League defeat by rivals Liverpool.

And he added: "You think you should be playing and my head was all over the place. I thought he [Sir Alex Ferguson] was messing me about, wrongly really. It's up to him what he does with his team.

"I realise it was stupid. I let the manager down and it was something I regretted. It's probably similar to Carlos Tevez's state of mind if it is true he refused to come on."

Scholes insists he apologised to Ferguson soon afterwards and was fined a week's wages.

He said: "Considering what I did, the manager was well within his rights to sack me and do whatever he wanted me to do with me.

"I went to apologise as soon as I realised I'd made a massive mistake.

"He fined me the maximum and that was it - the story was over and I think I played the next game."

The former England international retired in the wake of United's Champions League final defeat to Barcelona in May to take up a coaching role within the backroom staff at Old Trafford.

From BBC