Manchester United’s match against Stoke was reminiscent of the previous fixture between the two at Old Trafford. A flurry of chances created was undone by some sloppy touches in the final third. The poor finishing didn’t help their case. In the end, however, a sensational free kick by Rooney (record breaking) helped salvage a point from the game.
Lineup
The absence of Carrick was a justified one with the semi-final leg of the EFL coming up. This saw Herrera take up that role and Fellaini playing in a more advanced position. Mkhitaryan was on the left to accommodate Mata on the right while Rojo’s absence saw Smalling take his place.
Arnautovic and Pieters
Stoke utilised Arnautovic and Pieters to cause some trouble to United down the left flank, which, incidentally also led to the goal. The Wing combo was complemented by the movements of Joe Allen, who had a pretty mediocre game otherwise. This did see United stutter a bit and it worked when Stoke tried to attack.
Chances created a plenty
It’s getting frustrating to see United create chances but not trouble the goalkeeper. The chances created (19) were good enough to seal the game for United but the sloppy touches from Zlatan, Mata (who missed a sitter) and the lack of actual action from Fellaini didn’t see the game out. The problem with Fellaini was his lack of involvement in his role. Ander Herrera was a much more involved player despite being in a deeper role.
Valencia had a decent game yet again
Despite the negatives, Antonio Valencia had a decent, if not a good game yet again. The energetic right back did everything he could to provide United support in attack and cover while defending. His positioning was good and he kept track of his man for most of the game. The first goal was, in all honesty, Mata’s defensive error as he failed to mark his man.
Stoke were gritty in defence
While Stoke were annoying in defence with most of their men sitting deep, credit must be given for having held their ground during the game. Even the Shaqiri, who doesn’t really like to defend contributed well. Sitting deep and frustrating your opponents is a dull but effective plan at times. United were often forced to be narrow, which is against the current team philosophy. United aim to stretch the defence which they failed until Rashford came on. The introduction of Rashford gave United some hope but he too missed a chance.
Conclusion
Who do United blame? Clattenburg? Sure he was awful in his refereeing but the chances were enough to get goals and seal the game. There is no real excuse for this. Hopefully, the unbeaten run can see some wins instead of draws. United’s attackers need to be clinical since Zlatan cannot score in every game. They cannot afford another run of draws should Zlatan go missing.
