Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea – Man of the Match?
Manchester United snatched a well earned draw at Old Trafford as Robin Van Persie scored a last gasp equalizer for the Red Devils. In a great game for the neutrals, both sides attacked and defended well with a draw the fairest result in a game many were saying was Manchester United’s best performance of the season so far.
David De Gea (8/10)
He had very little to do between the sticks, but when called upon the Spaniard responded well. Pulled off a brilliant save to deny Eden Hazard just before Drogba’s goal and saved well from the Ivorian in the first half. His ball distribution was very effective too in helping United play out from the back. Another fine performance.
Rafael ( 6/10)
Started the afternoon recklessly as the right back earned a yellow card for a silly tug on Hazard but played well as the match went on. He contributed well in attack as well as in defence. Was in no man’s land while marking Drogba for the goal, but question marks on why he was marking Drogba to begin with are there for all to see.
Chris Smalling (7/10)
The centre back started after a month out following an injury to Phil Jones in training on Saturday. The Englishman produced a composed display, keeping Drogba silent for majority of the game and avoiding errors. Showed his pace when he raced back to deny Willian after Rojo’s error in the first half.
Marcos Rojo (5/10)
The Argentine produced an abysmal performance today. His play from the back was disappointing as he made several errors that luckily weren’t punished. While as a unit the defence didn’t look too troubled, his individual partnership with Smalling could be questioned as they failed to compliment each other well. One to forget for the €20M man.
Luke Shaw (7/10)
The teenager enjoyed his best performance for United in his short career so far. He made some galloping runs ahead early in the first half but later didn’t trouble Chelsea in attack. Defensively he rarely made errors and kept Willian quiet for large parts of the match. He formed a good partnership down the left flank with Januzaj in the first half and should be boosted ahead of next Sunday’s derby.
Daley Blind ( 6/10)
Not the best performance by the Dutchman. He was often outrun by the Chelsea midfield but he kept himself aware and shielded the defence very well. Formed a good understanding with Fellaini and kept the team ticking even when the team were behind. Was okay.
Maraoune Fellaini (8/10)
The Belgian continued where he left at Hawthorns. The tall midfielder kept Fabregas quiet by closing him down and by making key interceptions.He linked up very well with Januzaj in the attack and was always a threat in the box using his physical presence to dominate the center-backs. Had a fascinating battle with Nemanja Matic which was perfectly displayed with their corner flag tussle towards the end of the game.
Adnan Januzaj (7/10)
An encouraging performance for the youngster. He started on the left and created great chances to break the deadlock, playing a lovely through ball to Robin van Persie who’s shot was saved by Courtois. In the second half he shifted on the other wing and continued to give headache to Filipe Luis, constantly trying to beat his man or dribbling out of his own half to relieve pressure on his side. Big improvement from Monday’s game.
Juan Mata (5/10)
Yet another disappointing performance form the little Spaniard. He started the game lively by creating one-two great opportunities. But faded away as the game went on. He was replaced by Wilson later in the second half. Should have no complaints when he’s replaced in the starting eleven by the returning Wayne Rooney next weekend.
Angel Di Maria (6/10)
Probably his dullest performance in a United shirt. The winger lost possession several times which allowed Chelsea to counter but the Argentine produced one moment of magic by whipping in a great cross which led to the goal. Often tried a bit too hard to make something happen which led to several errors.
Robin Van Persie (7/10)
The captain for the day fared well today. He looked sharp and made some crisp runs.He was awarded for his hardwork with a well taken goal. Not an outstanding performance but an impressive one. His sharpest run out of the season by some distance and showed his frustration/passion with his goal celebration.