Manchester was pitted against Merseyside again as English football’s two most historic clubs went head to head at Old Trafford as the stage was set also for Jose Mourinho to collide against Jurgen Klopp. A win for Manchester United would put them within touching distance of the top 4 while a win for Jurgen Klopp was necessary to climb up and put pressure on leaders Chelsea.
The game started on an even note with both sides tactically trying to smother each other with all the various aspects of marking coming into play. Manchester United started well and they were the first side to open up things. Freedom came for Henrikh Mkhitaryan on the right and Herrera’s clever passes at times looked terrific. Mkhitariyan’s weighted through ball saw Paul Pogba mess up an adorable chance. A corner at the next instant on the other side was launched up and no one will probably understand what the young Frenchman was doing as a bad leap saw Pogba handle the ball and Liverpool got the penalty which was turned in brilliantly by James Milner.
United were set to chase once again at Old Trafford and this time stakes were higher against their nemesis. Mkhitaryan missed a crucial chance before the game halted at halftime. Second half, Rooney came on and United changed their organisation.
Constant efforts at goal with crosses and link-ups got nothing as Liverpool held on impressively. Fellaini’s introduction deep into the game was the one which made all the difference. Bringing another dimension to the attack, a cross finally from the left was matched by Fellaini’s glance and a rebound cross from Valencia was turned in by Zlatan.
The Best And The Worst Manchester United Players Rated From Their Draw Vs Liverpool
1) GK: David De Gea – 6/10
Had to make a few crucial stops but he was largely involved with the play from the back. His distribution was very effective.
2) RB: Valencia – 6/10
Liverpool’s work rate kept him in check but he could have delivered better when he got free space. His adventurous run and an accurate cross was turned in by Zlatan. It was a mediocre performance from Valencia and against a tough opponent, it’s acceptable.
3) CB: Phil Jones – 6.5/10
Took time to settle in but did well eventually as the game progressed. He was the platform from which De Gea got the ball and United launched an attack again several times.
4) CB: Marcos Rojo: 6.5/10
Physically, he made his presence felt again and had to save Jones after the latter made an error early on. His performances have been excellent at a consistent rate this season.
5) LB: Matteo Darmian – 6/10
His job was to deal with the pace and he did keep Lallana in check. Nothing effective going forward, though.
