Here Comes Jonny | How Jonny Evans has Established Himself at Manchester United

A Bright Start

After breaking into the United team during 2010, due to the long term injury of Rio Ferdinand, Jonny Evans struck up a successful centre back pairing with Nemanja Vidic and was eyeing up the spot permanently. This was following two loan spells with Sunderland in which he had helped the club secure promotion back to the Premier League.

The Northern Ireland international looked set for a bright future at Old Trafford, however as the 2010-2011 season wore on Evans lost his place in the team to summer acquisition Chris Smalling. In a crucial 1 - 0 victory over Bolton Wanderers in March, Evans was heavily criticised for his late challenge on Stuart Holden for which he saw red.

At the start of the 2011-2012 season Evans was back in the team, due to Ferdinand and Vidic both picking up injuries in the opening game of the season, the 2 - 1 victory over West Brom. He struggled to recapture his form from the two years previous and he hit an all time low as he saw red again during the 1-6 humiliation by Manchester City.

After what had been such a promising start to his Manchester United career was he already on his way out at the age of 23?

At the time most of the fans would have said so, as United had just suffered their worst home defeat in decades, meanwhile emerging defensive talents Chris Smalling and summer signing Phil Jones looked to be overtaking Evans in the pecking order. The general consensus was that he simply wasn't good enough to play for United.

A return to form

Evans was under fire from a majority of the United faithful; his rash challenge against Bolton and his defensive naivety against City made fans groan on seeing his name on the team sheet. When Vidic's season was ended in the 2-1 loss to FC Basel, Evans was starting more and more games as the reds were stuck for defensive cover. He helped United achieve clean sheets during a purple patch before Christmas where they beat QPR 2 - 0 and both Fulham and Wigan 5 - 0. However Evans was forced off at half time with a calf injury in the victory over Wigan.

With Evans injured and out of action, United suffered back to back defeats to Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United. He returned for the following league fixture against Bolton Wanderers, in which United got back to winning ways and kept a clean sheet in a 3 - 0 home victory. Since then Evans has played in all of United's ten Premier League matches; they have won nine and drawn just one.

During these matches Evans has achieved some phenomenal stats. In the 2 - 0 home win over Stoke City, Evans had 91% pass completion (successful with 96/106 attempted passes) - 3rd only to United's pass masters Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick. Similarly in the 2-1 home victory over Liverpool he registered 89% completion (53/59). His influence on the team was proving to be more than just stopping attackers; he was becoming the link between United's defence and midfield.

Ball playing defenders that breach the gap between defence and midfield, such as Athletic Bilbao's Javi Martinez and Barcalona's Gerard Pique are being lauded on the continent and widely regarded as two of the brightest young defensive talents around.

In the 5 - 0 away victory over Wolves on March 18th he capped off an impressive run of form with a goal, grabbing his first ever for the club when he volleyed home from close range. The following week in a hard fought victory over Fulham Evans set up Wayne Rooney for the only goal in the game as the reds triumphed 1-0.

This run of fine performances (including his goal and assist) led to Evans winning his first ever United's Player of the Month award for March 2012. His influence on the team only seems to grow as Evans recorded 97% (58/60) pass completion stats in the vital 2-0 away win at Blackburn Rovers, 10% of which coming in the attacking third.

Why Evans goes largely unnoticed outside United is a mystery, perhaps overshadowed by his previous poor performances or the absence of club captain Vidic, Evans looks to be having his finest season for United and his influence on the team has become indispensable.

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Match Report: Wolverhampton Wanderers 0 - 5 Manchester United

Wolverhampton Wanderers 0 - 5 Manchester United

18/03/2012

Premier League

Manchester United put five past 10 man Wolves at Molineux.



After a month lay off with injury, Ecuadorian winger Antonio Valencia returned to the starting eleven for United as the reds looked to open a four point gap on rivals Manchester City. His return meant Ashley Young dropped to the bench as Danny Welbeck was chosen to start the game on the left, with Wayne Rooney and Chicharito started up front.

United were facing a Wolves side struggling for form, losing their last five home league games. However if anyone was expecting a walk over then opening twenty minutes proved anything otherwise, with Wolves matching United in all areas of the pitch. On seventeen minutes Wolves had a penalty shout when Rafael clashed with Matt Jarvis in the box, however the claims were waved away, in what was a coming together at most.

Just as it seemed Wolves were getting the upper hand Manchester United took the lead through Jonny Evans. After conceding a corner, Michael Carrick evaded his marker and with a smart run to the back post, headed the ball back towards goal for the Northern Ireland international to volley home for his first goal for the club.

United had the lead on the ground they took the lead at last season before falling to a 2-1 defeat, so were well aware of what Wolves were capable of. However the goal frustrated the hosts as Ronald Zubar picked up a booking for a reckless challenge on Wayne Rooney. United continued to probe but Wolves resisted well. This was until the 40th minute, in a moment of stupidity Ronald Zubar again lunged in for a challenge, this time on Danny Welbeck. His effort was no better than his first and he had to go. Wolves were down to 10 men with five minutes still to play before half time.

Wolves struggled after the sending off as United added a second when Wayne Rooney released Antonio Valencia on the right. United's number 25 ran the length of the Wolves half with the ball before smashing home across Wayne Hennessey's goal. Moments later United added a third this time through Welbeck, who fired a low shot past the helpless Henessey to give United a commanding lead going into the break.

Wolves were three nil down with a man sent off and in need of a miracle if they were to salvage anything from the game. The reds were in complete control going into the second period and it took only ten second half minutes to grab their fourth, this time through Chicharito. United's Mexican striker headed home a simple chance, as he went completely unmarked in the box, dinking home Rafael's cross.

It wasn't long before it was five, Chicharito grabbing his second as he hammered in a low Valencia cross. United looked like they were going to run riot, having five goal lead with half an hour still to play. Sir Alex Ferguson saw this an ample opportunity to rest some key players with Michael Carrick, Patrice Evra and goal scorer Jonny Evans making way for Paul Pogba, Fabio and Chris Smalling.

Wolves used the United shake up to rally themselves when second half substitute Michael Kightly forced De Gea into a smart stop. However the pressure was short lived as United almost added a sixth late on through Danny Welbeck.

A comfortable win for the reds in the end as they open up a four point gap at the top of the Premier League. After the disappointment of the trip to Bilbao in midweek, United will be happy to return to winning ways.

Match Report Athletic Bilbao 2 - 1 Manchester United (5 - 3 agg.)

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 1 Manchester United (5 - 3 agg.)

Thursday 15/03/2012

Europa League

Manchester United out of the Europa League after defeat in Bilbao.


After going down to a 3-2 defeat at home to the hands of Athletic in the in the first leg, United had to score at least two if they were to qualify for the last Eight of the Europa League. The red devils had been overwhelmed in the first leg and opted for a more experienced team for this clash in Bilbao. Wayne Rooney was selected as a lone front man to be flanked by Ashley Young and Park ji Sung. The flourishing centre back partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans were set the task of keeping out Athletic's dangerous front line of Fernando Llorente, Iker Muniain and Oscar De Marcos.

There was an electric atmosphere inside San Mamés Stadium, and from the offset Athletic looked sharper and hungrier than the visitors. United were unable to get out of there own half as they again struggled with the hosts high tempo pressing game. After nine minutes of non stop Athletic pressure United carved their first chance of the match, as Tom Cleverley played in Ashley Young who saw his left footed effort blocked at the last minute by Gorka Iraizoz.

However the chances for the reds were few and far between as Athletic looked like running away with it as Muniain hit the post after some fine build up play from the hosts. De Marcos missed a tap in from the rebound to let United off the hook.

However it was only a matter of time before the impressive Athletic took the lead, as after 23 minute Llorente thundered home an immaculate volley following a pin point 40 yard pass from Ander Iturraspe. Bilbao were well and truly in the driving seat leading 4-2 on aggregate with United now needing at least three goals with just over an hour remaining.

The goal gave United a wake up call and for the following ten minutes the visitors rallied, almost snatching an equaliser through a Ryan Giggs header, which was blocked just in front of goal. Moments later United should have had a penalty when Tom Cleverley was nicked on the shin just inside the area. Referee Cüneyt Cakir waved play on to the disbelief of the England midfielder.

Athletic took their goal advantage into the break knowing it was theirs to lose, holding a massive advantage over a Manchester United side who were struggling to impose themselves on the game.

The unrelenting attacking machine of Athletic didn't take long to get going in the second half as right back Andoni Iraola jinked through the United defence with ease before poking his shot just wide of David De Gea's goal as the reds were just holding on.

United just couldn't get a foothold in the game and just after the hour mark Marcelo Bielsa's side had their second of the night as De Marcos' shot from the edge of the area was deflected past De Gea to put the Spanish side 5-2 up on aggregate.

United were simply being outclassed, knowing the tie was lost Sir Alex Ferguson made the unusual decision of pulling off key players. Rio Ferdinand, Michael Carrick and Ryan Giggs were all subbed as the weekend fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers seemingly taking priority. Danny Welbeck, Chris Smalling and Paul Pogba were the replacements, seeing out the last 20 minutes. The promising Pogba made a decent account of himself in trying circumstances, seeing a powerful 20 yard drive saved for a corner as the reds tried to salvage some pride from a torrid evening.

Ten minutes from time they did just that as Wayne Rooney scored a fantastic 20 yard effort, curling his shot perfectly into the top corner of Iraizoz's goal. But this was nothing but a consolation as United had been undone by a fantastic footballing side.

United can now focus all their energy on retaining the Premier League title with ten games to go, leading the chasing Manchester City by a single point.

Match Report: Manchester United 2 - 0 West Bromwich Albion

Manchester United 2 - 0 West Bromwich Albion

Premier League

Sunday 11/03/2012

Manchester United move top of the Premier League after comfortable victory over West Brom.

After the disappointment of the 3-2 home defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Thursday night, United were looking to bounce back against West Brom. With Nani injured in training on Friday, Sir Alex Ferguson opted for a forward three of Wayne Rooney, Chicharito and Danny Welbeck.

Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick were also amongst the starters as the reds continued their pursuit of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League. The visitors began the game the brighter, almost catching United out when Keith Andrews poked a Liam Ridgewell cross just wide of David De Gea's post.

West Brom had taken a leaf out of Athletic Bilbao's book, pressing the United duo of Scholes and Carrick, not allowing them any time on the the ball. In the 17th minute West Brom were close to taking the lead when Keith Andrews' deflected shot was just turned around the post by David De Gea.

United slowly began to take charge of the game as the United midfield started to control possession. United's main attacking outlet was the combination of Patrice Evra and Ashley Young down the left flank, however the killer pass seemed to evade them. United were gaining momentum and seven minutes before half time United took the lead through Wayne Rooney. Chicharito cut inside onto his left foot on the edge of the area before firing a low strike towards goal and before Ben Foster could scoop up the tame shot, the England striker nicked in front, volleying home from six yards.

After a slow start United had a deserved lead going into the break, but at just one goal there was still everything to play for in the second half. West Brom came out of the blocks brightly again, looking to get back into the match. Ten minutes in United were inches away from making it two, as Chicharito wormed himself into shooting position on the edge of the area but the Mexican striker saw his powerful shot crash against the post as the visitors cleared.

West Brom were building up a head of steam and on the hour Gabriel Tamas stung the gloves of David De Gea from long range. This wasn't to last, as minutes later the Baggies were down to ten. Jonas Ollson flew in late on Chicharito as United were looking to break, collecting his second yellow of the afternoon.

With the red came the end of the West Brom fight back with United completely dominated the match. Five minutes after the sending off United made it two, as Ashley Young was brought down in the area by Keith Andrews. Wayne Rooney despatched the spot kick confidently giving United a two goal cushion.

Following the goal the Red Devils brought on starlet Paul Pogba for veteran Paul Scholes, the young French midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from the club as contract negotiations between player and club have stumbled over recent weeks. This didn't seem to affect him as he played well for the final 20 minutes of the game.

Ashley Young almost made it three late on skewing his headed effort wide from a Chicharito cross. Before full time the home crowd erupted as new filtered in of Manchester City going behind against Swansea.

The Reds saw the game out at two nil as they take a huge step towards their 20th League title, moving to the summit of the table.

Match Report: Manchester United 2 -3 Athletic Bilbao

Manchester United 2 -3 Athletic Bilbao

Europa League

08/03/2012

United's indifferent European form continues as they leave it all to do after home defeat to Athletic Bilbao.

Manchester United were looking for an improvement on their last Europa League game where they went down 2-1 at home to Ajax. Sir Alex Ferguson picked an experimental side as the likes of Michael Carrick, Rio Ferdinand and Nani made way for Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Park Ji Sung.

However with Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young and Ryan Giggs in the starting line up, the manager will have been confident to get a result against the Spanish outfit. Athletic started the game on the front foot, keeping possession well and cutting through United's defence with relative ease. The centre back pairing of Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling as well as David De Gea had their work cut out to keep the score level in the early stages.

After withstanding 20 minutes of Athletic pressure United managed to take the lead. On a rare counter attack Chicharito carried the ball into the area, feinted onto his left foot and fired a low strike towards goal. Gorka Iraizoz only managed to parry the shot which Wayne Rooney hammered home from close range.

United had the lead but Athletic instantly resumed their dominance. Merkel Susaeta had a great opportunity to level things up as he got in behind the United defence, he opted for an audacious chip from 25 yards which beat De Gea, but also beat the post bouncing narrowly wide.

This was a big let off for the home side who couldn't contain Athletic. Moments later De Gea was forced into a smart low stop as the visitors were getting closer and closer. Just as it seemed United were going to hold on 'till half time Fernando Llorente esacped his marker, Phil Jones and headed home a fine Susaeta cross. It was the least Bilbao had deserved as they had been by far the better team.

If United had been told to enforce a stronger position in the game in the second half then it didn't work as Athletic instantly fell back into their rhythm. Four minutes in David De Gea saved United again turning a Muniain drive around the post. There was only one team that looked like winning the game and for once into wasn't the Old Trafford side. on the 52nd minute De Gea pulled off yet another save, repelling a Llorente shot that was destined for the top corner.

After 70 minutes Athletic did grab the lead as Oscar De Marcos got in behind the United defence again placing a low shot past De Gea. Replays showed the Bilbao man was off side, but it was the least the visitors deserved.

Just as it seemed the game was going to fizzle out, De Marcos zipped a shot across the face of goal which De Gea parried back into play. United defender Rafael should have been able to clear the loose ball but a lack of concentration meant Muniain got to the ball first smashing the ball into the roof of the net to strike United with a sickening blow. With United 3-1 down at home it looked like the tie was as good as over.

With seconds of stoppage time remaining United had a life line as De Marcos handled in the area to give United a penalty. Rooney despatched confidently to slightly reduce United's blushes. A disappointing result and performance from the reds as they have to win by two clear in next weeks return fixture if they are to progress.

Match Report: Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 3 Manchester United

Tottenham Hotspur 1 - 3 Manchester United

Sunday 04/03/2012

Premier League

Manchester United keep pace with the league leaders with victory at White Hart Lane.

United were missing Antonio Valencia and Tom Cleverley through injury for the trip to North London, however Spurs themselves were without key players, with Gareth Bale and Rafael Van Der Vaart missing through injury. The hosts were also without Scott Parker who was sent off against Arsenal last weekend.

Wayne Rooney returned to the starting line up after missing United's last two fixtures with a throat infection. United named an unchanged back four from the side that defeated Norwich last weekend, with Ashley Young chosen ahead of Ryan Giggs in midfield.

United started well, edging the midfield battle for the first ten minutes of play. However the home side soon imposed themselves on the game pressuring well, not allowing United's midfield duo of Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes time or space with the ball. This led to a sustained period of first half pressure for Spurs in which they won a number of corners and dominated possession. They had the visitors on the ropes and thought they had opened the scoring when Emmanuel Adebayor back-heeled the ball into the net. However referee Martin Atkinson ruled the effort out for hand ball by the Togolese striker.

United would have been lucky to go into the break on level terms, so when on the stroke of half time Wayne Rooney headed home Ashley Young's corner United will have been delighted to now be going to the break with the lead.

Spurs had out muscled the Red Devils all over the pitch, and despite United holding the lead they would need to improve their performance to avoid getting overrun by Spurs in the second period. Tottenham started the second half where they left off pushing United back deep into their own half, with centre halves Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans having to be at the top of their game to continually keep the hosts at bay.

Just six minutes after the restart David De Gea had to react quickly to keep out Jake Livermore's shot which took a late deflection of Louis Saha, with the young Spaniard just managing to turn the chance round the post for yet another Spurs corner.

Moments later they came even closer as Benoit Assou-Ekotto saw his left footed free-kick strike the top of bar. As the hour mark approached Spurs were finally looking like making a breakthrough, when on a rare counter attack Nani managed to get in behind the Tottenham defence. The Portuguese winger fired a cross into the box, Kyle Walker's attempted clearance fell to Ashley Young, whose precision volley gave United a two goal advantage.

After all their hard work and endeavour, Spurs now found themselves two goals down, despite playing the better football. This seemed to effect their game as United now found them selves in the ascendency, taking only another nine minutes to grab their third. It was Ashley Young again, curling a beautiful right footed effort in to the top of Brad Friedel's goal after he had found himself with time on the ball 25 yards from goal.

Spurs were deflated, three goals down with just 20 minutes of the game remaining. The visitors had the lead and were more than happy to keep hold of the ball with some neat and tidy play.

This continued until the 87th minute when second half substitute Jermain Defoe intercepted a loose pass from Ryan Giggs firing a 20 yard effort beyond David De Gea to reduce the deficit to 3-1.

Spurs attempted to rally for the final few minutes of play, but it was too little too late as United moved back to within two points of the top with an impressive win at White Hart Lane, inflicting only Tottenham's second home league defeat of the season.

Match Report: Norwich City 1 - 2 Manchester United

Norwich City 1 - 2 Manchester United

Sunday 26/02/2012

Premier League

Ryan Giggs snatches all three points for United on his 900th appearance for the club.

For the second game running Wayne Rooney was not fit enough for the squad as United were looking to close the gap at the top of the Premier League to two points. Chicharito partnered Danny Welbeck up front in Rooney's absence as Dimitar Berbatov was dropped to the bench.

Paul Scholes was selected along side Ryan Giggs who was making his 900th appearance for the reds. And it was Scholes who made an instant impact, heading home a Nani cross from close range after just seven minutes.

Norwich were struggling to contain United as Danny Welbeck almost made it two as John Ruddy just managed to turn his shot around the post. Despite this early pressure the home side slowly began to get a foothold in the game and were increasingly looking the more likely to score as David De Gea had to be sharp, repelling brilliantly with his feet from a close range Anthony Pilkington shot.

Norwich forced De Gea into another good save as he reacted quickly to hold onto a Grant Holt effort. United managed to hold on to the lead going into half time, Alex Ferguson must have been disappointed that after such a bright start his side were unable to put the game to bed. Norwich seemed determined to not give United an easy time of it as they began the second half how the left off in the first, pushing the visitors deep into their own half.

Norwich's attacking threat was being kept at bay by impressive defensive performances from David De Gea and Jonny Evans. In the 65th minute United had another great chance to go ahead as Danny Welbeck saw his chip over Ruddy cleared off the line by Zak Whitbread. Ten minutes later United came close again, this time denied by the crossbar as Ryan Giggs's volley thundered against the woodwork from a Phil Jones cross.

Going into the last ten minutes of the tie Norwich again upped the tempo, firstly Aaron Wilbraham's long range effort forced De Gea into another good save, before Grant Holt turned Rio Ferdinand in the box before firing into the top corner of goal.

Norwich more than deserved their equaliser as United now only had seven minutes to find a winner. Just two minutes later Welbeck should have had it, as he got onto the end of a fantastic Ryan Giggs cross, only to head wide. Just as it seemed that Norwich had done enough to earn the draw, Ryan Giggs popped up at the far post flicking home a superb Ashley Young cross from close range.

The 1,500 travelling United fans went wild inside Carrow Road as they snatched all three points at the death courtesy of their talismanic Welshman Ryan Giggs.

Match Report: Manchester United 1 - 2 Ajax AFC (agg. 3 -2)

Manchester United 1 - 2 Ajax AFC (agg. 3 - 2)

Thursday 23/02/2012

Europa League

United through to the last 16 of the Europa League despite stumbling at home.

After an impressive 2 - 0 win away in Amsterdam in the first leg, United just had to avoid defeat by two or more goals to secure progression to the next round. Wayne Rooney was left out of the match day squad due to a throat infection picked up shortly after the first leg. This meant Dimitar Berbatov and Chicharito began the game up front. Sir Alex Ferguson opted to field a very youthful side with six of named eleven aged 22 or younger.

United began the game in style as they took the lead after five minutes. Berbatov set up his strike partner Chicharito excellently, as the young Mexican took his chance confidently,placing his shot past Kenneth Vermeer. It was a fine start from the home side, putting them 3 - 0 on aggregate.

Ten minutes later United were almost out of sight as Chicharito tried to repay the favour by setting up Berbatov but before the Bulgarian striker could slide the ball home, the cross was cut out by Jan Vertonghen at the last minute.

As the half wore on the home side became a little complacent and Ajax began to take hold of the game. David De Gea saved well from a Aras Özbiliz shot before the Armenian pulled the Dutch side level on the night with a 20 yard strike just before half time.

After an explosive start United had been pegged back by an Ajax side that was gaining in confidence. The Eredivisie side had given themselves a lifeline giving them hope for the second half.

The second half continued much as the first ended with Ajax frustrating United as they looked for the two goals they needed to give themselves a chance of turning the tie around. David De Gea was forced into a excellent save just before the hour denying a Siem De Jong header from close range.

Just as it seemed the game was fizzling out to a draw, Toby Alderweireld powered home a header from close range to give Ajax the lead. Now only needing one goal to pull off an unlikely turn around. However a shaky United held on to go through three goals to two on aggregate.

A combination of inexperience and complacency almost cost United a place in European competition for the second time this season, after they crashed out of the Champions League at the group stage. The reds progress to face Athletic Bilbao in the last 16.

Match Report : AFC Ajax 0 - 2 Manchester United

AFC Ajax 0 - 2 Manchester United

Thursday 16/02/2012

Europa League

Manchester United take control of the tie with a professional performance in Amsterdam.


Phil Jones and Tom Cleverley were brought back into the side after lengthy lay offs with injury as United embarked on their first European tie since being knocked out of the Champions League in the group stages against Basel. Chicharito was chosen ahead of Danny Welbeck to partner Wayne Rooney up front as United fielded a strong team.

United were facing an Ajax team that also fell out of the Champions League at the group stage and were fired up for the match at the Amsterdam Arena. However It was a lacklustre start from both sides and despite United controlling the play in the middle of the park, they were incredibly wasteful with possession going forward.

The home side struggled to get a foothold in the game as United slowly began to look more threatening, Nani wasted a golden opportunity, blazing over when a simple pass to Rooney would have left the England forward with a tap in. Ajax created the best chance of the half as David De Gea pulled off a stunning save to deny a 30 yard effort from Siem De Jong.

On the stroke of half time Ajax had a penalty shout as Rio Ferdinand clashed with Miralem Sulejmani on the edge of the area, despite the appeals from the Ajax players, the referee, Gianluca Rocchi, waved play on as the sides were level going into the break.

It had been a tentative half with neither sides able to control the game. This was all about the change as United came out for the second half a different side, bossing proceedings from the off. Their passing was sharper and more fluid as the visitors were soon encamped around the Ajax penalty area in search of the opener. And after Nani had come close and Chicharito had had a penalty appeal turned down, it was Ashley Young who opened the scoring latching onto a deflected Nani cross.

It was not less than United deserved, as they continued too boss the half with Ajax now chasing the game. However the home side rarely troubled De Gea as the defensive pairing of Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans reduced them the speculative efforts from range.

United wrapped up the tie late on as some fine interplay between Antonio Valencia, Rooney and Chicharito saw the Mexican striker squeeze his shot past Kenneth Vermeer to given United a comfortable lead going into the second leg.

Match Report: Manchester United 2 - 1 Liverpool

Manchester United 2 - 1 Liverpool

Saturday 11/02/2012

Premier League

Wayne Rooney scores twice in four minutes to secure United the points in a tense match at Old Trafford.


With Liverpool striker Luis Suarez returning for his first start after an eight match ban for racially abusing Patrice Evra in the return fixture in October, tensions were running high even before te kick off. Much had been said about whether the players would shake hands before the game, and it was here where the sparks began to fly as Suarez ignored the outstretched arm of Evra. The action almost led to a fight, as Evra showed his disbelief in being denied a chance to calm tensions by the guilty party meant it wouldn't just be the football discussed after th game.

United opted to start with Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, with the Welshman starting on the left but floating in and around Scholes and Carrick helping United retain the ball comfortably in the early stages. In fact it was a cagey start from both sides as Glen Johnson, from left back, saw a early shot curl around David De Gea's post, was the best chance in the first ten minutes.

United's man of the moment Antonio Valencia was giving Jose Enrique a hard time down the right flank as the Spaniard struggled to keep pace with the Ecuadorian winger. This almost led to an early inroad as Enrique brought his man down just outisde the area, however the freekick came to nothing. United had the best chance of the half after some sublime interplay between Giggs, Rooney, Welbeck and Scholes saw the latter firing a header towards goal, however the chance was stopped comfortably by Pepe Reina.

Just before the half time break Suarez found himself played through for the first time in the match however Rio Ferdinand made a pin point last ditch challenge to swipe the ball from Suarez. As the Uruguayan went down he thought he had been fouled, demanding that Ferdinand was sent off. However Phil Dowd called the decision correctly, allowing the game to continue.

The appeal from Suarez hadn't helped the tension that was building throughout the half, as the players left the field of play, arguing between both teams began. Police intervention was required to seperate both sets of players. The mood of the game was sour, the football in the second half would have to improve if this was going to change.

And that's exactly what happened as Manchester United exploded out of the box in the second half. two minutes after the restart United won a corner. Jordan Henderson failed to deal with Giggs' ball as Wayne Rooney was at hand to thump home a volley to give United the lead. The home side had been the better side and now had a goal to back it up.

Just four minutes later Rooney doubled his and United's advantage to put them firmly in the driving seat. The England striker dispatched calmly through Reina's legs following a pass from Antonio Valencia as the Old Trafford crowd went wild.

Liverpool looked distraught as they desperately tried to hold onto the game, United continued to look dominant and could have been out if sight. Rooney found himself with the ball 10 yards from goal, however his momentum was too great and he only managed to poke his shot harmlessly wide. United kept their shape following the goals, not allowing Liverpool the opertunity to create any chances.

This was until the 80th minute when the visitors grabbed a lifeline, through who else but the under fire Suarez. Poking home from three yards after a defensive mix up following a Charlie Adam free-kick. The goal gave the visitors hope and put the home crowd on edge for the final ten minutes. However Liverpool didn't manage to rally as United kept their composure seeing out the final stages with relative ease to secure a valuable victory.

After the game Patrice Evra couldn't hold in his delight as he celebrated with the fans and his team mates, as he felt justice had been done. An important result in the title race as United move to the top of the table for a day at least, with rivals Manchester City not playing untill Sunday.

Match Report: Chelsea 3 - 3 Manchester United

Chelsea 3 - 3 Manchester United

Sunday 05/02/2011

Premier League

United make a dramatic comeback after being three down to grab a point at Stamford Bridge.

It had been 10 years since Manchester United had recorded a win against Chelsea at Stamford Bride in the Premier League and the reds were looking to set the record straight in pursuit of their 20th League title.

After it was revealed midweek that Anders Lindegaard is set to face up to six weeks on the sidelines through injury, the heavily criticised David De Gea was back between the sticks for United. Wayne Rooney was also reinstated in the starting eleven after missing United's last two outings against Liverpool and Stoke.

It was a cagey start from both sides as the game became a midfield battle of wits, with neither team managing to make any real inroads. This was until the 10th minute when Danny Welbeck got in behind the Chelsea back four and débutante Gary Cahill was forced into a last ditch challenge bringing Welbeck down on the edge of the area. Cahill failed to reach the ball, However the referee Howard Webb didn't agree, waving play on much to the England strikers disbelief. Moments earlier Webb had waved away another penalty shout as Ashley Young had his shirt pulled in the box, on another day United could have had two penalties and been a man up in the opening quarter of an hour.

The half continued with neither side giving much away in a half that passed with much incident. This was until the 36th minute when Daniel Sturridge got past Patrice Evra for the first time, crossing across goal from the byline, the ball clipped Jonny Evans and bobbled over the line to give the home side the lead. 1 - 0 it stayed, with Chelsea taking a slender advantage into the second half.

If the first period had been quiet then the second was anything but, as the blues came flying out of the box. After just 23 second half seconds they had doubled their advantage as Juan Mata slammed home a second following a pin point cross from Fernando Torres to put Chelsea in the driving seat.

United were stunned, and as they scrambled Chelsea smelt blood. Four minutes later they had a third as David Luiz headed home from a Mata free-kick. Chelsea were in dreamland as they lead 3 - 0 with less than an hour played.

United were shell shocked, but slowly began to find their rhythm thanks to the introduction of Chicharito soon after the 3rd goal. United had a lot to do if they were to get anything of this game, with their title aspirations fading by the second. And just before the hour United had a lifeline, when Sturridge, the creator of Chelsea's first brought down Patrice Evra in the area to give the reds a penalty. Wayne Rooney stepped up and hammered home a confident shot into the roof of the net to reduce the deficit to 3 -1.

The Champions were now in the ascendency looking like a transformed side. Ten minutes later it was 3 - 2 as Danny Welbeck was tripped in the box to give United their second penalty of the afternoon. Rooney slotted home again as an unlikely comeback now looked on the cards.

Chelsea responded well shoring things up at the back, reducing United's attacking threat as they looked to hold onto the three points. Fernando Torres, who had produced the miss of the season in the return fixture in September had the opportunity to give Chelsea back their two goal cushion, however like the game at Old Trafford he fluffed his lines opting to take another touch instead of striking for goal as United cleared.

Going into the final stages of the game United were piling on the pressure in search of the equaliser, when Rooney saw his shot parried by Petr Cech, Ryan Giggs had time to place his cross from the byline as Chicharito lost his man to head home from close range.

United had come from three goals down two pull things level at 3 - 3. And just as you thought they might go on and win it, Chelsea almost snatched back all three points as David De Gea made two world class saves. The first direct from a Juan Mata free kick as he just managed to tip the ball around the post. The second came moments later a he denied Gary Cahill from long range getting a fingertip to a ball that was flying into the top corner.

United held on for the point, and despite dropping two in the title race. Coming from behind to earn a point where title rivals Manchester City had lost might just be enough to swing the pendulum in favour of the reds.

Match Report: Manchester United 2 - 0 Stoke City

Manchester United 2 - 0 Stoke City

Tuesday 31/01/2012

Premier League

Manchester United move level on points at the top of the table after comfortable victory over Stoke.


After last Saturday's disappointing defeat at Anfield last weekend, United were looking to bounce back in pursuit of the Premier League title. There was a surprise in the starting line up as Ben Amos was handed his first ever League start after Anders Lindegaard and David de Gea missed the game through injury and illness respectively. This meant that United's forgotten man Tomasz Kuszczak was United's substitute keeper. Dimitar Berbatov and Chicharito were both selected up front with Danny Welbeck on the bench.

This meant Wayne Rooney and Luis Nani were again rested as they both recovered from knocks picked up in the 2-1 win over Arsenal. The game started at a slow pace with United holding the ball in midfield with composed passing from midfield duo Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick. United lacked drive as they struggled to involve Chicharito and
Berbatov in the action. Despite the lack of guile, United were by far the better team as Stoke provided almost nothing going forward as strikers Kenwyne Jones and Peter Crouch were reduced to speculative efforts from outside the area.

One bright spark for United was again Antonio Valencia, who looked threatening down the right flank. It took until after the half an hour mark for the first clear cut chance, when Paul Scholes saw a trademark strike from the edge of the area glance wide for a corner. Just as it seemed the teams were happy to play out until the break on level terms United got a spring in their step, as Park Ji-Sung played his way into the box he was brought down by Jermaine Pennant to hand United a penalty. Chicharito stepped up and confidently stroked the ball into the corner of the net to give the reds the lead.

Moments later United should have had a second penalty as Patrice Evra was again brought down in the area, this time the referee Mike Jones waved the shout away. United went into half time one goal to the good and in complete control of the tie. The second half start much as the first finished with the home side dominated proceeding and slowly but surely stamping their authority on the game. In the 53rd minute United extended their lead, and it came from the spot again, as Berbatov placed the ball calmly past Thomas Sorensen after Antonio Valencia had been fouled by Jonathan Walters.

United were now in cruise control and took their foot of the gas, which spelled a 10 minute phase of Stoke pressure as Jermaine Pennant and second half substitute Cameron Jerome looked threatening. Stoke only mustered one chance of note in this spell forced Amos into his only save of the game as he stopped a Jerome header. For the last 20 minutes United brought on youngster Paul Pogba who made a bright league début with some smart passing and a few flashes of skill. In the dying moments United should have had a third but Berbatov skewed his shot wide following a Valencia cut back.

United picked up all three points with relative ease against a Stoke side that lacked invention. United move level on points with the leaders Manchester City and are only separated by goal difference. Next up for United is a tough away trip to Stamford Bridge.

Match Report: Liverpool 2 - 1 Manchester United

Liverpool 2 - 1 Manchester United

Saturday 28/01/2012

FA Cup 4th Round

Manchester United crash out of the FA cup to late Dirk Kuyt winner.

With a midweek Premier League fixture with Stoke City on the horizon, Sir Alex Ferguson made the decision to rest some key names. Wanye Rooney and Luis Nani weren't included in the match day squad, after both picking up knocks in the 2 - 1 victory over Arsenal last week. David de Gea was making his first start since the 3-2 defeat to Blackburn Rovers on New Years Eve.

But with the experienced duo of Ryan Giggs and the returning Paul Scholes United dominated the play in the opening stages. United were operating a three man midfield that also included the inform Michael Carrick, between them they starved the home side of possession, looking comfortable for long stretches.

However the first clear cut chance fell to the hosts and they managed to capitalise as Daniel Agger headed home a Steven Gerrard corner. David De Gea again struggled with the cross as the eventual header flew over his head as he failed to claim the ball.

United didn't panic and instantly rediscovered their passing rhythm as they looked to get back on level terms. And they did get level, with the goal coming six minutes from half time as Rafael took advantage of some sloppy defending from Jose Enrique crossing low for Park Ji-Sung who rifled the ball into the bottom corner of Pepe Reina's goal.

The equaliser was no less than the visitors deserved. After a quiet first half the teams went in level with most of the attention of the home crowd being directed towards United defender Patrice Evra, who had been racially abused by Luis Suarez earlier this season. The behaviour of the home crowd was very unsympathetic and was verging on abusive, adding a sour note to the game.

The second half continued much as the first, with United holding possession in the middle of the park rarely probing forward but denying Liverpool the ball. The game continued in this manner until the final ten minutes when the home side came alive, as both teams changed to a 4-4-2 formation Liverpool finally found their footing in the game, as they launched the ball towards the United keeper looking to force him into another error.

And the home side did grab a winner, but it wasn't at the fault of United Spanish keeper. As Pepe Reina hoofed a ball up-field, Andy Carroll jumped highest to knock the ball down to Dirk Kuyt who hammered home from close range after 87 minutes. There was no time for a United response and the game finished 2 - 1.

With Stoke City visiting Old Trafford on Tuesday evening United can now look at concentrating their efforts on the Premier League as the reds drop out of the FA cup at the 4th round.

Match Report: Arsenal 1 - 2 Manchester United

Arsenal 1 - 2 Manchester United

Sunday 22/01/2012

Premier League

Dany Welbeck secures all three points for the Champions against a lacklustre Arsenal side.

Prior to kick off we had seen Manchester City beat Tottenham Hotspur 3-2 at home, meaning United needed to win at the Emirates Stadium to keep up the pressure on the leaders.

Anders Lindegaard was preferred in goal for the fourth consecutive match as he bids to secure United's number one spot. Danny Welbeck was rewarded for his goalscoring performance agaisnt Bolton last weekend as he started up front along side Wayne Rooney. Phil Jones was back in the starting line-up, appearing at right back.

However the Englishman's return was short lived when after 16 minutes he was stretchered off through injury after he had fallen awkwardly whilst defending an Arsenal counter attack. Early reports are that he will be facing a couple of weeks on the side lines. Rafael was his replacement slotting in at right back.

Despite the injury United went onto dominate, pushing Arsenal deep into their own half. Nani and Patrice Evra probed down the left flank making life tough for Yohan Djourou in the Arsenal defense.

The home crowd was being silenced by the attacking display of the away side, however United weren't converting the pressure into goals, Johnny Evans came close following a Ryan Giggs free kick and Danny Welbeck blazed a close range shot over the bar. Just as it seemed Arsenal were going to get to half time on levels terms United struck. Ryan Giggs floated in a pinpoint cross from the left wing which Antonio Valencia headed home to put the away side one up at the break. It was the least they deserved after a strong half from the defending Champions.


After a torrid first half Djourou was replaced by 18 year old full back Nicholas Yennaris as Arsenal tried to negate the threat of Nani and Evra down the left. In the 51st minute Arsenal almost drew level, when Chris Smalling slipped, Tomas Rosicky took advantage storming through on goal, he unselfishly set up Robin van Persie who somehow blazed his shot wide of the post from a great position.

Despite the miss Arsenal found their feet in the second half as the game evened out into a much tighter contest.Moments after the Dutchman's miss Alex Oxlade - Chamberlain setup Aaron Ramsay in the box but the Welshman fired his shot over the bar. In a frentic few minutes United had a great chance to pull two ahead when Danny Welbeck outpaced Per Mertesacker, to go one on one with Wojciech Szczęsny, the English forward managed to pass past the keeper, but the ball didn't have to the pace to cross the line before Mertesacker got back to clear the ball inches from goal.

United were made to pay for not putting the game to bed whene Oxlade-Chamberlain burst through the United defense at speed in the 71st minute, set up Robin van Persie who beautifully placed his shot across goal into the bottom corner of Lindegaard's net. Arsenal had fought back after a poor first half and now seemed to be the team in the ascendency.

Soon after the goal Paul Scholes was brought on for Nani, who had picked up a knock and Ryan Giggs moved out onto the left. The substitution changed the game as United kept possession well in the middle of the park. In the 81st minute it was a Paul Scholes ball, floated into Valencia's path that created the winner. The Ecuadorian jinked his way past a couple of defenders, playing an excellent one-two in the process before Danny Welbeck smashed home from close range.

United responded in the best way possible to the equaliser by moving ahead again. Arsenal piled on the pressure in the closing stages but the visitors held on to secure the spoils. The reds sent out a message that they are not giving up their title without a fight as they move back to within three points of the leaders Manchester City.

Match Report: Manchester United 3 - 0 Bolton Wanderers

Manchester United 3 - 0 Bolton Wanderers

Saturday 14/01/2012

Premier League

Paul Scholes makes a goalscoring return to help United back to winning ways against Bolton.



After his surprise inclusion on the bench in the 3-2 victory over Manchester City last Sunday, Paul Scholes made a return to the starting eleven for the game against Bolton. The 37 year old starting his first game since coming out of retirement. Danny Welbeck was preferred to start upfront along side Wayne Rooney as United were looking to make amends for losing their last two league games against Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle.

United started on the front foot with Antonio Valencia tearing up and down the right flank, stretching the game early on. The first clear cut opportunity fell for United in the 20th minute when Zat Knight bundled over Danny Welbeck in the box to give the home side a penalty, and the perfect chance to go into the lead. However Adam Bogdan in the Bolton goal guessed correctly and superbly palmed away Wayne Rooney effort to keep the scores level.

Following the miss Bolton defended well keeping United at bay, not allowing the game to flow. It looked like they had done enough to go into half time on level terms, but in the first minute of stoppage time Paul Scholes popped up at the back post to neatly finish Wayne Rooney's low cross. The goal signalled a fairy tale return to action for Scholes whilst also settling the nerves left from the saved penalty.

Bolton carried on where the left off in the second half frustrating United and even carving a few chances of their own, David N'Gog spurred a close range effort, blasting over the bar. It took until the 74th minute for United to extent their lead, when they did Danny Welbeck was on hand to poke home from 12 yards following a sublime pass from Rooney. The instinctive strike had doubled the reds lead but in the process of scoring Welbeck had injured himself and had to be replaced by Chicharito.

With the points sealed United seemed to be cruising to a 2-0 victory when Michael Carrick decided to put the icing on the cake as he stroked the ball home beautifully from just outside the box to make it three.

Missed penalty aside United deserved to take home the spoils and it could have been more if Danny Welbeck had seen a first half shot hit the back of the net and if Wayne Rooney could have converted. United move level on points with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, with City not playing until Monday, the result puts the pressure on the Blues.

Match Report: Manchester City 2 - 3 Manchester United

Manchester City 2 - 3 Manchester United

Sunday 08/01/2012

FA Cup Third Round

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney scores twice to knock out cross city rivals at the first hurdle, as Paul Scholes makes a surprising return from retirement.


The return of Paul Scholes was the main talking point before the game, as Manchester United's legendary midfielder earned a place on the bench for the second Manchester derby of the season. Other changes saw Danny Welbeck return to the starting lineup, ahead of Dimitar Berbatov, partnering Wayne Rooney up front. Chris Smalling was fit enough to start as United's makeshift defence of recent weeks was beginning to look more familiar, he lined up along Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra and Phil Jones.

City started the better, pushing United deep into their own half as they tried to take advantage of their home support. However that crowd was soon silenced as Antonio Valencia's cross was met perfectly in the air by Wayne Rooney who headed an unstoppable header past Costel Pantilimon. The goal was United's first attack of note and they had made it count.

Just two minutes later the Blues took another blow as their captain Vincent Kompany lunged in recklessly on Luis Nani. The Manchester United winger just managed to get himself out of the way but Kompany had gone in two footed, making Chris Foy's decision easy, sending him off after twelve minutes.

One goal to the good and a man up, United were fimrly in the driving seat as they looked to settle the tie early. The away side piled on the pressure as their 5,000 fans sang the loudest. In the 30th minute United doubled their advantage as Danny Welbeck fired home an excellent volley, again leaving the outstreched Pantilimon no chance. The young Englishman was the only Mancunian to feature in the derby and he reeled away in exstacy following his brilliant strike.

The league leaders were in pieces, and in the 40th minute Rooney hit his second and United's third. When Aleksander Kolarov felled Danny Welbeck in the box Chris Foy pointed to the spot, and despite the City keeper stopping Rooney's initial strike he couldn't get to rebound as United took an unprecidented 3 - 0 lead at the Etihad stadium going into half time.

United had one foot in the fourth round and at the half time break City removed two of their more attacking players in David Silva and Adam Johnson for the more defensive options of Stefan Savic and Pablo Zabaleta. Moments after the restart City had a lifeline, Patrice Evra was deemed to bring down Micah Richards on the edge of the area and Kolarov's freekick found the bottom corner of the net to reduce the deficiet to 3-1.

Soon after the goal Valencia found himself in the City penalty area and as he outsmarted Kolarov the Serbian defender brought him down, stunningly Foy didn't award a second spot
kick for United, despite the clear foul. On the hour mark we saw the return of Paul Scholes, on as a substitute for Nani, however he made an instant impact for the wrong reasons as a stray pass allowed Sergio Aguero a shot on goal, his attempt foruntaley was parried back in his direction to give City their second. With just a single goal margin the home side were looking to complete an unlikely comeback.

But as the half wore on United shored things up with Paul Scholes making amends as me made 71 passes in his 30 minutes on the field with a 97% completion rate. This defused the City comeback and they had one final chance in the dying minutes as Kolarov struck another freekick from the same position as his first, but this time Anders Lindegaard repelled the effort as United completed a famous victory against their rivals.

United will now travel to Anfield to face Liverpool in the 4th round of the FA cup as the draw brought up another tough opponent away from home.

Match Report: Newcastle United 3 - 0 Manchester United

Newcastle United 3 - 0 Manchester United

Wednesday 04/01/2011

Premier League

United lose their unbeaten away record and go down to their second successive Premier League loss to dent their title hopes.


After Saturdays disappointing 3-2 loss to Blackburn Rovers, Manchester United were looking to get back on track at the newly named Sports Direct Arena. United's defence had been crippled by injuries in recent weeks, so the return of Rio Ferdinand to the starting line up will have been welcomed by all United fans. However the back line still included inexperienced Phil Jones and Antonio Valencia again filling in at right back.

Anders Lindegaard was preferred in goal after David De Gea had struggled in the defeat to Blackburn. Dimitar Berbatov was selected to partner Wayne Rooney up front as he had
bagged six goals in his last three games. United were also looking to get their own back on a Newcastle team that picked up a point at Old Trafford after a poor refereeing decision had led to a Demba Ba equaliser.

The game began at break neck pace with both sides eager to make an early impression on the game. It was the reds who started marginally the better forcing Newcastle into rash challenges, with Fabio Coloccini lucky to escape a yellow card for a high boot. They almost took an early advantage when Dimitar Berbatov saw his header deflected onto the post, in which inexplicably a goal kick was given even though the ball had clearly ricocheted off a Newcastle defender.

However as the game developed the home side took the game by the scruff of the neck and in the 33rd minute the Magpies went into a well deserved lead as Demba Ba hit a sumptuous volley into the top of the net following a Shola Ameobi cross. The reds couldn't match Newcastle's energy in the middle of the park, with the threats of Rooney and
Ryan Giggs being subdued by Cheick Tiote.

The score stayed at 1-0 going into half time leaving Sir Alex's men with everything to do if they were going to get back into the game. At just a goal down there was everythign to play for. However United were stung almost immideatly after the restart when Yohan Cabaye fired an inch perfect free kick into the top left corner of Lindegaard's goal. The advantage was well and truly with the home side and the reds struggled to break them down as they were now in search of three goals if they were to turn the game around.

The closest the reds came was when Wayne Rooney saw his effort from four yards cleared off the line by ex red Danny Simpson as Newcastle continued to boss the game. One of the
few sparks of quality in the Manchester United team was an imperious passing performance from Michael Carrick, however the England midfielder found himself camped deep inside
his own half and struggled to make an impact.

In the 90th minute United were dealt a hammer blow when a defensive mix up meant Phil Jones nodded the ball into his own net to make the score 3-0 and give Newcastle a resounding victory. The loss means title rivals Manchester City retain a three point advantage at the top of the league with 18 games to play.