Hello,
After watching Bayern face Fiorentina in the last round, I had some thoughts. First, Bayern's defensive line was not great. Not just one of them, all of them seemed nervous around the ball. Second, the midfield was ok, not great, just ok. They did not control the game in boths legs against the Italian team. Robben is a threat and Ribery, although coming off an injury, was a concern. Going into this game, with United on a role, I really thought United would win. I was wrong.
With Robben injured, United started off strong with Wayne Rooney scoring in the first two minutes of the game. I always get nervous when United score early. Anyone remember Liverpool last year? Something weird happens when they score really early. United played ok in the first half although you could tell Bayern wanted this game more.
In the second half, things fell a part. Bayern were all over United, dominating in the mid-field and forcing VDS into more saves than I have seen this year. Where I thought Bayern's defensive line was shaky, it was United's that proved even more shakey. Gary Neville, playing in his third straight starting role, clearly handled the ball which allowed Ribery to deflect a shot off of Rooney. The score was tied but it was Bayern clearly in control.
After a complete defensive meltdown by Evra and company, Olic applied the cool finish for Bayern's winner. The goal was celebrated but the cameras went straight to Rooney who appeared to land awkwardly on his right ankle after trying to avoid having his left foot being stomped on by Mario Gomez. Rooney limped off the pitch and needed help from the trainers. This is not a great sign for United nor England. As I write this, no word on the injury.
Besides the shocking display from the defence, one has to wonder what happened to our usual competent midfielders. Fletcher was taken out of the game which I think is the most critical part. Park was no where to be found. Nani was ok but I heard his name less and less as the game went on before being pulled. Giggs did little save a great corner kick and some nice defending in the corner. Then there is Burba who came on and really did nothing to help the attack. Rooney was left up there with little quality service. Perhaps Sir Alex has to re-think his away, Park, 4-5-1 set-up. Maybe teams have seen this too many times in the last two years. I am not saying change the whole set-up but perhaps tweak it a bit.
Although United only has to win 1-0 at Old Trafford, this game was hopefully a wake-up call for the lads. They must play better next week. They must play better because Bayern may have Robben back and United may not have Rooney.
One last thing - to the Bayern fan in the crowd today - we do not mind your celebration but smile while you can. See you next week.
Derek
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment