Tag Archive for 'manchester'

EPL: Chelsea vs Manchester United – Feb 2012 – Reaction

I am utterly devastated. Being 3-0 up in 50 minutes one is expected to win. Chelsea’s incapability to hold on to a 3 goal lead has been the story of their campaign so far. This is 2 crucial points lost for us. Now even the 3rd position seems unachievable. Maybe we should try and fight for that last Champions League position.

Positives from the match, if any? Well, playing a game without John Terry, Ashley Cole, Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Ramires (who has become very important to Chelsea this year) one would not have expected Chelsea to even manage a draw. Man Utd were boosted by the return of Rooney and Young. It was an uneven contest. Even before the start I was prepared for a defeat. It’s just that when you go 3 up you expect to win – always.

For all the Man Utd fans singing and dancing out there, let me ask you one question. I have already mentioned that ours was a depleted team. Are you really happy that you managed to get a point from a depleted side? Doesn’t seem like the objectives a Champion team would have. Also you might want to check the recent statistics. 4 of the last 5 goals that ManU have scored were penalties! What can anyone do if the association of referees want Man Utd to win – hook or by crook. With a little level headedness and humility go watch the second penalty decision. You’ll be ashamed to celebrate such goals.

In all fairness, I do not think we played well today, but we did deserve 3 points. The inconsistencies has already cost us a shot at the title, I’m afraid it might cost us Champions League as well. Draws are not good enough for us, we need to start winning again.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Three Manager Quotes I Liked

I was going through this article wherein the author has compiled a list of 50 managerial quotes.

Top 50 Managerial Quotes Of All Time

I read only the top 10. Of those 10, there were 3 that I loved. They are:

  • Manchester United’s Sir Alex Ferguson
  • My greatest challenge is not what’s happening at the moment, my greatest challenge was knocking Liverpool right off their fucking perch. And you can print that.
  • Liverpool’s Bill Shankly
  • Some people believe football is a matter of life and death. I’m very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.
  • Chelsea’s Jose Mourinho
  • Please don’t call me arrogant, but I’m European champion and I think I’m a special one.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Liverpool Humbles Manchester United

Ferguson vs. Benitez

A win was needed to save the hopes of a title chase for the Reds, and a win they got after 90 minutes of entertaining play. Torres and Gerrard ensured that Liverpool not only beat Manu, but do so convincingly. A 4-0 win against Real Madrid backed up with another 4-1 victory at Old Trafford speaks a lot about the renewed Liverpool.

The match began just like any other one, with Manu pressing forward and looking aggressive. They were the ones to win the first corner of the game. Quater of an hour later, a Ronaldo penalty kick saw them take the lead at the Theater of Dreams. And if the records were to be consulted, you would learn that Manu has never lost at Old Trafford when Ronaldo has scored.

However, a crucial judgemental error by Vidic saw a composed Torres equalise the score. It was a calm and composed striker making sure the ball finds the net. A few minutes left to the half time and Evra fouled Gerrard inside the penalty area. A clean strike and Liverpool were up, a repeat of their performance when they staged Manu at Anfield and won the match 2-1 conceding first.

Gerrard Penalty Shot

Gerrard Penalty Shot

The match was far from over. Manu showed urgency coming into the second half, pushing Liverpool onto defensive. Ferguson altered the 4-4-2 formation into a 4-3-3 by making three substitutions. Drama took place just moments later when Vidic fouled Gerrard and was shown red card by the referee. A perfect free kick and Liverpool were in the driving seat. With the scoreline 3-1 in Liverpool’s favour, Benitez substituted the-not-100-percent-fit Torres. Defending anxiously each wave of Manu’s attack, Liverpool managed to break free once again and score a fourth goal.

Well, Liverpool got what it needed, a victory against Manu at this crucial time. They have now been the better team at both the occasions, winning 2-1 at home and 4-1 away. With newly discovered form and spirit, they do pose a considerable threat to whoever they are drawn against in the Champions League.

Popularity: 1% [?]