the blog of manchester united

In game where a magical Manchester United demonstrated how football is meant to be played, Rooney and Tevez combined with a brace from the latter, with the third goal epitomized the beauty of one touch, free flowing football, that is imagination. Rooney’s back-hell flicked to Tevez was finished brilliantly by the number 32 slotting it in for United to take a commanding 3-1 lead, before Tevez added the fourth one courtesy of yet another assist from Rooney.

Middlesbrough was given a worst start when Nani scored a spectacular 30 yard goal just after 3 minutes. Middlesbrough, though, was given a lifeline when Aliadiere headed in a looping header after Tugay’s cross from the left wing, occupied by O’Shea in Evra’s absence. It was a shocking goal as United were in full control, and Boro could’ve gone a goal ahead midway in the second half only for Stuart Downing to head inches wide, again from a cross from the left side. It was again Downing’s involvement later that changed the game, however, this time, it was a giveaway in the penalty box, collected by Rooney to smashed home for United’s lead, and eventually set the pace for the champions.

Eleven musings from the game:

1. United is back at the top of the table, with one point ahead of Arsenal, although the Gunners have two games in hand.

2. Rooney has scored in 5 games in a row.

3. United have stretched the 4-goals-scored streak to 4 games, a new record for the Red Devils (it was a century year old record broken).

4. Rooney and Tevez, their movement and understanding of each other is simply brilliant.

5. Anderson is really impressive operating from midfield. For the third game in a row that he started, he has showed sharpness in reading the game, and his range of passing is admirable.

6. Hargreaves returns. It was a brilliant return, bossing the midfield, breaking passes, and starting off counter-attack. He reminded me of Gattuso, but a more skillful one.

7. van der sar’s save from Cattermole is top class. United could’ve gone 2-2 had it not for the Dutchman to make a sensational flying tip off the bar from Cattermole’s long shot.

8. It was the second goal from Nani, with both scored from way outside the penalty box. I couldn’t be happier that we’ve got a player who gives a different dimension to United’s free flowing football.

9. Ronaldo had a sort of quiet game, although he did have a couple of chances where he shot straight at Schwarzer.

10. Giggs’ introduction as a central midfielder late in the game showed us another dimension of the Welshman. He did show some good touches from midfield.

11. Eight wins in a row in Premiership, and a trip to Arsenal next week? How about that? Bring it on!!! I couldn’t be more confident that we’ll get another “W” from the Emirates!

Man of the Match: Wayne Rooney

Tevez scored a brace, but it was all about Wayne Rooney last night. His movements, his determination, and his imagination througout 90-minutes kept United inspired for another 4 goals beauty. It was a perfect celebration for a new lad who’s just turned 23 a few days ago. Brilliant, Wazza!!!