The End Brings Renewed Belief

At the start of the season, I like many people, and just not United fans alone, would never have imagined us at the top of the league with a six point lead and four games to go. People still questioned this side's ability to sustain any kind of lead in the league aside from the other cup competitions - without Ronaldo and Tevez and the Keane's, the Nistelrooy's and the Beckhams. I miss their transparent hunger and appetite for success but they've had to move on as well and in respect to the last two legends, age does eventually catch up with you.

Manchester United have done well since 2005 to bring in replacements. Ronaldo for Beckham, nurturing Fletcher into the new Keane and of recent, the acquisition of Javier Hernandez, that final piece of the jigsaw who fills that void vacated by the Nistelrooy almost six years later. In a way, I kind of feel that United are trying to maintain the style we used to play with a few years ago, although the intensity we carry out now on the pitch is somewhat a little less subdued.

Still, some of our performances haven't warranted the luxury of the position we hold at present in the league. You could state 'a transitional phase' with the old heads looking to call their time on United soon and the emergence of young talent. Also, a lot of the English players suffered a loss in form post the World Cup and none of them was more prone to attack from the Press that Wayne Rooney. Contract Negotiations may have put the whole squad on edge early in the season too. But thankfully all the above mentioned factors that were signalling for a wretched season were sorted out. Ronney got his form back, All contracts were successful in retaining our experienced players and the English; well a few of them anyway, are starting to put in strong performances when it matters most.

Manchester United are a club that can rescue themselves from the brink of a loss to draw or even better, win. Similarly, they also defend well towards the end of a game and we have this sort of history and belief to fall back on. We've rescued a few points while losing some sitters as well, but have fought hard and played unattractively at times to register important wins. Although it might not yield to pleasant viewing among the hardcore 'football should be played in style fans', and I'm one for that, the result does matter at the final whistle.

At times this season, like any fan, I was optimistic when Chelsea were leading with six points, had some hope that somewhere down the line, United would get a break. And that's pretty much been the reason for us still holding that cushion of six points. I doubt we'd experience a tragic loss in form and points so late in the season but with four games to, I wouldn't write anyone else off. Anyway, I was saying that United got a lot of lucky breaks this season to be where they are right now.

Chelsea suffered huge defeats in November after losing one of their most influential assistant managers of 37 years of loyalty. That shook the Club quite a bit and they recovered very very late. At a point they were 15 points behind United. Arsenal are the perennial masters of their own undoing. They've got the talent but lack 'the kill' factor in them in a long game. Also, when it matters most, like towards the end of a season, they under perform and look weary when they need to finish other teams off. I know that the season's long but its been the same old story for the last six years. Also, in my opinion, they need to make good buys - players who can inspire, motivate and lead through example. They don't have any of that. Manchester United have made use of all of that an more importantly, bringing a sense of  composure and calmness to the team with the experience that the veterans carry with them. It wont last forever, but we live in the present and you nurture the future.

Manchester United owe their current position to the underperforming Arsenals and Chelseas. Yes United haven't been flamboyant, but their challengers have been a wee bit worse off as well. I think its useless in trying to find faults in another teams amour when you realize your own team's position. For me, I've seen a lot of 'United don't deserve to win this league' and 'they aren't the teams of the famous '99 and '08.' Of course, I'd agree with them! Well, partially at least... only until a few months ago until I realized that we've been the best of the worst this season. Yes, squads do undergo a transitional phase. And United are undergoing that at the moment as retirees  wait on the sidelines. Arsenal are struggling to find that missing piece that would otherwise be the most beautiful puzzle to be solved in the English Premier League for a few years now. Chelsea I feel look for the quickest answer to solve their woes. Unlike Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool, who invest time instead of lots of money ( United do make the odd expensive purchase ), Chelsea expect results. It'll take them more time than they realize, I feel. Manchester City must be categorized with the West Londoners as well.

But for United, a change in fortune with a mix of mid-season allowances and taking our chances, I feel we are growing in confidence; and not just for this season, but for the next campaign as well. The emergence of Rafael and Fabio Da Silva, a steal in Hernandez and other youth's playing in the reserves, for me that is, are promising signs for the future. We should make use of the advantage of our Champions League position having almost secured a final spot and the League Cup, which is ours to lose. We can take this form with us in to these 'finals' and beyond.

It was unexpected to say the least that we'd find ourselves in these positions and I hope we take our chances and avoid squandering them when we're so close to the finishing line with something to show for it, and a bright bright future to look forward to.

Taking the Shepherd out of the Germans...

I don't know whether to be bashful of our wasted chances, or salute our excellent display, and what to make of Shalke's poorest display in the competition yet. It wasn't the game I was expecting but I'm happy that we came out on top. Hell, we could've finished higher than 'on top'. I think the whole world would have been left surprised after ten minutes into the game after realizing that we were up only against their Keeper, Manuel Neuer. It was that simple, wasn't it?

Sadly, Shalke proved to be a shadow of the team that their recent form would otherwise suggest. Thrashing an Inter Milan side in Italy under a month ago would seem to put the fear in anyone's any underworld mob. They were on an dream run and I think that they woke up from it just before kick off. Manchester United, like me, like millions of other viewers, realized that we were being humbly shown the door to Wembley. Maybe United were geared up to play on the counter-attacks but were taken by utter surprised when they saw Shalke's enormous respect bordering on fear for our team. And on seeing a vast change in the tactics that Shalke deployed, we started to dictate the pace and flow of the game. Shalke were too hospitable and showed perhaps too much of respect for their visitors, something that is not known amongst the German teams; while United on the other hand took 67 minutes to register their disbelief with two quick goals from the ageless, agile legs of Ryan Giggs and a resurgent Rooney to make it an almost no-brainer second leg back in England in a week's time.

I had said before in my earlier post that this would be a great game to watch. I really meant that. I didn't think it would be only the United fans enjoying it selfishly. I thought it would be a marvelous game of a first-timer up for it, against an organized and experienced side in Europe. Many pinned their hopes on Carrick being the villain behind a suicidal back pass or an Chicharito sniffer of a goal. But it was too open a game. For us it was anyway.
We ( United! ) finally made it count and we got what we came for. We might have got a lot more than what we bargained for initially, but we got the job done.

A few things to notice about last night's game: The pitch was wide and Shalke played with a high defensive line; meaning that it was really very easy for us to get in behind them with long balls looped up and over their defense. Yes, it was frustrating as a supporter to witness guilt edged chances being wasted but I knew we'd take one eventually; while in the mean time hoping that Shalke would not punish our criminal efforts in front of goal. United's defense was only threatened after we scored our two goals in the last twenty minutes of the game but otherwise, they was rarely made to work.

Another strange tactic to comprehend is perhaps that Shalke played with a high defensive line, a compact midfield and a retreating forward line ( given our possession football ); thus crowding the middle of the ground. But it really didn't look like that. We played a quick passing game - to the sidelines, down the middle and over their defense. At times, I thought that we were playing against nine players wearing blue. Was it that simple???

Without disrespecting Barcelona and Ream Madrid who play in tonight's game, Shalke made United look like they were Champions of Europe already. The German team defended with fear, broke forward with hesitation and made United's task really simple. It made our recent ragged performances against Everton, Newcastle and Manchester City look very distant; not like the team that had performed so badly in the last ten days. Or maybe United are a different team when you put them on the European stage.

Having said that, I saw how wonderfully we played as a team last night. I cannot take a lot away from our displays even if Shalke weren't a shade of their earlier selves. Fabio was fabiolous and Park was full of energy as usual. Something of boon to us to have him back fit again. Valencia's return has brought some hunger and appetite into our forward line and no doubt will that inspire our strikers to get more goals. His contribution has been vital and priceless. Speechless too. Carrick seems to have found composure against top opposition when it matters and he is as vital for us as water is to fish. Rooney is still the inspiration in the team and the ever so brilliant Ryan Giggs show us how much he drives this team. Watching Chicharito ( Javier Hernandez ) play as our main striker has started to reassure me that we will find space in every area of the pitch. He looks like a forward that will keep a defense of their toes. In his first season, he's done so well. He's like a little stick of dynamite. He'll explode into life and you cannot ignore his contribution even if he doesn't score in a game. He makes his presence felt. That's important too.

We can and should take this form to the Emirates even though I feel that our European form has been quite different from how we play in the League. It's like we're on reserves in a league match and use our tank to full capacity outside England. Whatever it is, Fergi has rotated his squad really well and it seems to be working. We have our own team out there; quite different from the Barcelonas and Madrids and I wouldn't trade a player for anything. After a season of uncertain beginnings, the team's shrewd performances have got everyone in and around Old Trafford believing.

Shalke v/s United : Champions League Semi-final Preview!

Tonight's game vs Shalke could be anyone's game really. Manchester United have the experience to pull themselves through even without playing some of their blistering football from the yesteryears. Shalke have taken to this competition like a duck to water. They're fearless and are in a boisterous mood at the moment in the competition where if it clicks for them on the night, they will rip their opposition apart ruthlessly. While United have yet to concede away from home, Shalke haven't lost at home either. Shalke have a brutal midfield with Farfan being a driving force in the middle, while Raul puts his priceless experience to test yet again, with a first-timer club in this year's competition. Manchester United will want to learn from painful past experiences against the bogey German teams to give themselves any chance of a final berth. It promises to be a captivating two-legged semi-final affair when these two meet tonight.

Shalke dispelled of Valencia ( United's former group stage competitors ) in the pre-quarters while only just emphatically humiliating current holders Inter Milan in the quarter-finals. They also finished at the top of their respective group back in December.

Manchester United haven't had the easiest of games either, having won Marseilles only in the second leg at home in the pre-quarters; while making the best use of their tactics against a familiar Chelsea team in the quarter-finals.

PRO's
Shalke have more than a formidable record at home as they are tonights host.
They may be tenth in the Bundes Liga, but unlike Tottenham Hotspurs, another newcomer to this competition, they are utilizing their squad well. Central defender Howedes returns at a crucial time for the blue and white outfit. They've got nothing to lose in the League and are only competing in a cup competition aside from the Champions League.
Manager-less for part of the Campaign, now under the guidance of Ralf Rangnick, Shalke's new manager hasn't affected the dynamics of the squad and the flow of their football. He has let them carry on the way they were playing earlier which is a good thing I suppose.
Raul and Edu are a dangerous pair and in my opinion, neither of them can be underestimated.

Manchester United have a good unit in place and are a difficult team to breakdown. They don't have the mightiest squad on paper but they all carry out their duties exceptionally well.  Tactically, they can be stubborn, dangerous and will grind out a favourable result. They have an almost full-strength squad without Berbatov and Fletcher. They are leading the Premiership table with four games to go aside from contesting for a final spot in this years Champions League Final's.
United don't have any players missing on suspension and neither are they at any immediate risk at losing one to a ban.
Rooney is coming into good form and the return of Ferdinand will boost the squad's composure and belief.
Anderson and Park return to the squad as well.

CON's
Shalke have 3 players on yellow cards and one more will mean that they miss out on the second leg of the Semi-finals at Old Trafford. One of them happens to be their talisman, Raul.

United can make it very difficult for themselves as I see them playing only on Counter-attacks. If they don't take their chances, Shalke can punish them - over both legs.
Berbatov's ruled out with a groin injury.

MY PREFERRED LINE UPS

SHALKE 04 ( 4-4-2 )

                                   Neuer

Uchida            Howedes        Metzelder    Sarpei

Farfan         Papadopoulos        Matip       Jurado

                                Raul    Edu.


MANCHESTER UNITED ( 4-5-1 )

                               Van Der Sar

Rafael             Ferdinand           Vidic          Evra

Valencia         Carrick           Anderson      Giggs
                                  Rooney

                               Hernandez

                                    **********************

PREMIER LEAGUE WEEK 32 : ARSENAL vs LIVERPOOL

Liverpool travel to Arsenal buoyed by their recent victory over Manchester City winning 3-0 at home with Andy Carrol netting his first two goals for Liverpool in that game. Arsenal too, will be happy coming into this game having beaten Blackpool 3-1 at Bloomfield Road last weekend. Wenger recently applauded a dressing room bust-up between Robin Van Persie and Diaby. Odd, but at this stage of Arsenal's campaign, they only have the League to fight for with seven games remaining. Any demoralizing words will all but surely end their hopes of silverwear this year. They've had bad luck enough losing the Carling Cup the way they did against Birmingham in February.

Liverpool have somewhat written themselves off as challengers in major competitions this year and look set to miss out on a Europa League spot with some five points adrift of Spurs in fifth place. But they'll want to give themselves every chance of getting into Europe too which means that they will fight at the Emirates tonight. 

Arsenal can push for the League title and their Champions League spot next year look all but settled as they are comfortably within the league positional requirements for automatic qualification. But finishing second over a pressuring Chelsea in third means more money for the Gunners. They'll want to keep that place in check and push United all the way - who sit pretty on top of the table, with a seven point difference.

Both teams will have a go for it and push the teams currently lying in front of them. So I hope this game produces some end to end stuff like its done before in the past. Who can forget that 4-4 draw at Anfield with Arshavin scoring all four for the Gunners that night! Neutrals will want the same kind of action while the supporters just want the points in the bag.

My Preferred Line Ups for tonight's game.

ARSENAL ( 4-5-1 )

                                        LEHMANN

SAGNA                GALLAS      KOSCIELNY           CLICHY

                                           SONG

WALCOTT          NASRI         WILSHERE        ARSHAVIN

                                      VAN PERSIE

Although it might look like a defensive formation, there's plenty of attack in this squad to rip apart any team when Arsenal have their day. They've also got Fabregas. But he doesn't look as if he's up for it. Its better if he sits this one out. Arsenal will have to get used to not seeing him around when this season ends. Wilshere and Nasri can find a pass and score themselves. RVP looks like he's in good nick. Arsenal are favourites to win this game for me.

                                                              ***

LIVERPOOL ( 4-4-2 )

                                                  

                                                 REINA

JOHNSON           CARAGHER       KYRGIAKOS     SKRTEL

                                        

KUYT                   MEREILES         LUCAS             JOE COLE

                      ANDY CARROL        SUAREZ

Liverpool have found good rhythm in the middle of the pitch but they're just getting started. They haven't fared well away from home this season and whatever little for they've acquired so far, is too late now but they will believe that they can get something from this game. Gerrard's season is over and is all the more reason why I find Liverpool struggling in this game.

                                                              ***

Manchester UNITIMID

We're about to lose this semi final against a better Manchester City side. They've earned it. Another 90 seconds and they'll be at Wembley again in three weeks or so to face either Bolton or Stoke. We were not the better side and I'm so agitated with our attitude. We underestimated our opponents.
There it is the final whistle. And I could not be happier that this is over. There's a scuffle between Ferdinand and Balotelli. Whatever it is, I doubt anyone from City will give a damn. And rightly so. Where was I? Ahh yes, We took very City.

We were the softer of the two teams I have to say in general. City looked a little more positive in their attack and when Yaya Toure scored, I'm sure Ben Foster, somewhere in Birmingham closed his eyes and saw what was to happen next. I'm quite sure he'd twitter as soon as possible to tell everyone that that wasn't him in goal. Carrick returned to his usual best by gifting the ball away to the opposition. He should've at least brought the guy down and been yellow carded for it. I don't know why we looked out of sorts. We worked so hard to get here to this stage beating off Liverpool and Arsenal. We've had similar games here in the recent past, one in particular against Everton two seasons ago, and we got punished for it.

Scholes' red card was fully deserved and Berbatov just didn't show up. We only had one shot on target that I can remember! Against City's four or five! Thats how defensive both teams were. I thought Ferguson should've benched Giggs at least. I understand the strains of the Champions League and that Giggs probably needed a break, but you know that your best players should get a chance against Man City in the Semi-finals of a Cup competition. Otherwise, just lose in the third or fourth round or something ya. Irritating.

To come so close and throw it all away is just pissing off. It felt like Ferguson gambled on this competition out of fear for his team's fitness. But why when you're so close?! Just one more game!!! Is that too much to ask for? Manchester United fans will leave Wembley in acknowledgement knowing that we were second best tonight. Aside from the red card, an embarrassing number of shots on target, a striker who maybe, is not shot on goals, but on confidence at the moment, there was nothing else to be happy about. Hernandez, Fabio and Anderson would've probably had a better impact on the game had they started but it's over now. No use complaining.

The positives? We didn't play extra time and tire ourselves further... Even if we did, I'd still see us on the losing side. I'm not being pessimistic, just real. I know when we're capable of getting something out of nothing and this wasn't one of them.
Evra was Manchester United's top player with two shots - off target.

Well, that's it.

The drawbacks? Scholes has picked up a 3 match ban. Only wish It had come at a time when Ferguson and Rooney were both banned. Or do I? No, not really. But it's a sad thing, so close to the end of the season.
We looked sad and uninspired.
Overconfident in defense. And stupid, stupid defending to concede that first goal.

This reminds me of the semi final against Everton in 2009. Let me rewind a bit. At the same stage, we were in pole position for the League, and facing the prospect of meeting Barcelona in the Finals of the Champions League. We bagged the Domestic Championship. Like this time around, Fergi took a chance keeping in mind the Barca game which sadly, we were dispelled of. I don't think the same fate awaits us now - thinking the exact opposite - that would be pessimistic. But I certainly hope that history doesn't repeat itself.

We need to kick on. The League is far from over. and We still got to travel to Shalke in Germany and face them at home - all within the next three weeks with another three Premier League games.

The good thing about losing a game you deserved to lose is, that you can quickly put it behind you. Even if it was against Manchester United's greatest local rivals. I wont wish them for the finals thats for sure. I hope Bolton or Stoke put up a good fight against a decent City side who will no doubt, be pumped up for the finale which, should they win it, will end a dry spell of 33 years without a trophy. They ought to have a trophy for that achievement too.

Time to look forward to a Barcelona / Real Madrid game. Should be much more interesting than what I just witnessed. Ex United stars Pique and Ronaldo face off for their respective clubs.

The final whistle beckons.

F.A. Cup - Manchester City vs Manchester United Preview

It's a massive massive game. It's more than just a semi final. It's bigger than the final. You wish it were the final! It's a derby game where winner not only take's all, but the final bragging rights this season. United haven't spent the money but have worked on building a great team spirit, whereas City have spent money but they cannot find the unity amongst the players on this pitch - the kind of effort you need to see a game through. Tevez, Rooney and Ferguson all have touchline bans. So that still make's it a competitive game to watch. Both Clubs have a great squad within them in individual players. So who will stand up and be counted. There's no question about the hunger in each team. They each have positives to be encouraged about. But who, in the end, will come out on top?


Manchester City, like I said before, have world class players with good amount of personal experience when you're talking about the game in general but they don't seem to have a closeness about them, any leader as such and without their, talisman Carlos Tevez sidelined with a hamstring injury, who will City look up to for inspiration? Mancini is a great tactician but you need a little more than tactics to win the game. The Discipline and the Will. City are lacking that at this stage of their season by playing some tired legs, not enough of experience in the manager and the players 'within the English game' although they do have individual match winners. If these players can keep their fitness up, and have a long lasting impact on the game, they can grind out a victory. Silva, Toure, Johnson and Hart-their stopper, will be instrumental figures in pushing their team through to the finals. They have a strong squad on paper but if they can turn that paper to pitch, they'll turn that pitch into a party place.


Manchester United have the momentum going into this game. They'll be buoyed by their Champions League quarter final victory over perennial league challengers, Chelsea. They've got a fit squad and an experienced clout of individual players who've spent years together gelling with each other to be disciplined enough to tactically win this game. Alex Ferguson serves his fourth out of a five game ban while Wayne Rooney sits out his second and last game. With Rio Ferdinand back at the back, his formidable pairing with Nemanja Vidic stabilizes the defense. Berbatov, will want to prove a point to Fergi if he starts tonight's game. Hernandez is in good form along with Carrick and and the industrious Park looks to be producing fine displays as always and the mood in the dressing room will be all but confident and positive. They are far more disciplined of the two teams and will pounce when presented with the opportunity. Almost all the players are in good nick but Ryan Giggs will need to maintain his influential displays as Rooney sits out. Scholes might step in in his place to command that midfield with Carrick.


I'm very excited and I cannot wait for this game to begin. United are my favourites not just because I'm a fan but because I do believe that we can outwit, out pace and mentally beat a City team desperately trying to get a first win over United since Sheikh Mansoor's takeover in, correct me if I'm wrong, 2009. Both Midfields will be packed and City will take this game to Extra Time even if they have to win. Not United. They'll take a risk and want to win it within the ninety minutes given that they are fighting in three competitions while their blue counterparts have nothing to lose, but this competition.


MY TEAM LINE UPS 


MANCHESTER CITY ( 4-5-1 )


                                             JOE HART


RICHARDS         KOMPANY        LESCOTT              KOLOROV 


JOHNSON           SILVA       DE JONG     TOURE           BARRY


                                            BALOTELLI


Now, if Richards Is fit, he'll begin. This is a very attacking line up for me and they also have the likes of Milner, Viera - an Old United favourite, Shaun Wright Phillips and Dzeko. Plenty of options if he wants to stay defensive or go all out attacking in the latter stages of the game.




                                               *   *   *


MANCHESTER UNITED ( 4-4-2 )


                                          VAN DER SAAR


O'SHEA              FERDINAND                 VIDIC                EVRA


VALENCIA                SCHOLES          CARRICK               NANI


                                                       GIGGS 
                                          CHICHARITO




My hunch is that Berbatov will still find himself sitting close to Ferguson but will get his chance later on if nothing productive works for us. He's an experienced striker with bag loads of composure; that to some  may looks heavily Lethargic. Were he to come on, he'd replace Nani, with Giggs slotting into Nani's position and Berba playing just behind Chicharito ( Hernandez ). Gibson, Fabio, Smalling ca also deputize when called upon. Ferguson will still want to keep his squad fresh after midweek's grinding result. But in a game of this magnitude, I don't see him disrespecting Manchester City.






                                                                                            *       *       *

The Champions League's Fantastic Four.

Here we are. Four teams that deserve to own a semi-final berth in Europe's most extreme footballing competition - The UEFA Champions League. We have two Spanish teams, one German and one English team; all making it through thick and thin to get to this crucial stage in not only this competition, but their respective seasonal campaigns as well. It's all or nothing for these teams having gotten so far and it has been a rough season for some, while for others, it's been a formality. And with respect to the latter, we all know that the only team in this world at the moment riding on sheer brilliance, is Barcelona.

But at this stage of the season, it can go either way. Shalke have shown that they are not to be underestimated by the big guns after dispelling current holders Inter Milan emphatically, while Manchester United are grinding out results tactically; not the safest method but presently proving to be the most effective as they kick into form at the right time. Real Madrid have found stability and motivation through Jose Mourinho and have made it past the QF stages for the first time in over five years. Confidence seems to be their twelfth man giving cover to each of his team-mates on the pitch. Barcelona are a class apart and one would have to agree with me when I say that they've been the most consistent team aside from Manchester United in Europe over the last three or four seasons in the UCL. They could play without a defense and still win a game. That's how threatening their midfield and forward line are.

I think that we shouldn't be disappointed with the teams that have made it thus far as they have fully deserved their shot at glory albeit with one more hurdle in their way.

REAL MADRID overcame the eye-catching Tottenham Hotspurs over both legs and anyway, I felt that Spurs had over achieved in their first season amongst Europe's Elite, not that they didn't deserve to reach this far, but they were running with tired legs and not enough of experience to get them any further in this competition. They could have gone the distance but only for a rejuvenated Madrid team that have found rhythm in their passing, a firing forward line with the likes of Benzema and Higuain and I can't believe I'm saying this, but Adebayor as well to stand their way. Mourinho is a tactical genius and he will want to win at any cost. Even if it means playing unattractively and not within the spirit of the game as we saw when Alonso and Ramos got themselves red carded in their final group game away at Auxerre in order to restart with a clean slate going into the knockout stages. Even so, they got the job done against a ten man Spurs team in Spain and we know how that happened after fifteen minutes. Jose can bring the best and worst out of his players. All he wants is to do is win and it doesn't matter how he does it just as long as he does so. He has the experience and a sharp mind, and thats what he used against Spurs. Something tells me that as they gear up to face Barcelona two weeks from now, and having to play them four times within the same time-frame in other national competitions, he'll want to win Barcelona by playing a little physical thus throwing his competitors off their rhythm. Although they do face each other four times in two different competitions, the stakes will be different but the tactics, will in all likelihood, be the same.

SHALKE 04 are the underdogs of this tournament even after dispelling last year's Champions Inter Milan last night, officially. In my last UCL post, I wished for a Shalke attack and boy, was I not left disappointed!!! From being a goal down in the opening 25 seconds, to comfortably winning the game 5-2 at the San Siro, last night was a mere formality. Still, they won the second leg 2-1 to stamp their intent and ambitions in this league. From last year's national Champions, to this year's fight for European dominance is hardly the fairly tale anyone would have ever predicted especially since they are so close to the finishing line. They have been one of the competitions quieter teams, rapidly making progress into the last four. Manager-less for part of the season, the players look united in team spirit and their focus is on the ball. Inter Milan were outdone by German Shepherd who took the game to their opponents and did not back off even once after conceding an early first leg goal wherein the whole world watching it, were quick to end Shalke's hopes of even a sniff at an away goal. Still they made the impossible seem like nothing and although they might not be in pole position in the Bundes Liga, they, unlike Tottenham, are playing with resolve, team spirit and the in-bred German strength to go the distance. They, like their competitors have the means to fight for a final where they lack in rich history to guide them on. It maybe enough to guarantee their shot at the final but they will have to put in a lot more of steel against a resurgent Manchester United in the semi-finals. They have the confidence, the belief, and the momentum going into this tie. The question is whether they can make it count. Or will they tire like Spurs did against Madrid. They attack with intent, shoot on target and never back down. They've got a good shot at making it through to the finals so long as they continue to hold their nerve as they've been doing so far.

BARCELONA are by far the best team in the competition so far. They've got an attack that's worthy of being envied upon by any team out there in the world. That attack might not have the Henry's and the Eto'o's and  the Ronaldinho's of yesteryears but they've got plenty of goals in David Villa and Lionel Messi - who has scored a club record 48 goals already this season. For Barcelona, Xavi, Iniesta and Messi are a trio that can wreck any team's defense. Added to this, they have Alves on the right and promising players in Pedro and Pique. They might not have a wealth of attacking options but what they possess at the moment is enough or better still, 5 First Division English teams into one... or many many more. They are firm favourites to overcome Real Madrid in the semi finals. But in previous seasons in the same competition, at the same stage, they've shown a vulnerability to choking at this stage when they've come up against a stubborn opposition, tactically speaking. However, their passing and finishing is second to none. Their fluidity is unmatched anywhere in the world. Their coach? He has a knack of winning every competition they take part in and the most daunting thing of all - Lionel Messi. In my opinion, he's even better than the legendary, Maradona and is currently the closest thing to a somewhat of a footballing God. He cannot be man-marked, cannot be tamed, cannot be subdued and cannot stop scoring. This doesn't go without saying that a team wins on individual brilliance alone; but with the midfield that Messi has to support him, they can be unbeatable. For this team, the best form of defense is offense. It looks like nothing can knock them off their perch. Although, the only person standing in their way, is Jose Mourinho. He did it last year with Inter Milan by playing a defensive game against them. Maybe thats the only way to bring the Catalans down to earth. No team is invincible. But Barcelona are also the closest thing Harry Potter's Cloak of Invisibility. The only difference here, is that everyone can see it in plain sight.

MANCHESTER UNITED have made it to this stage for the third time in four years, twice progressing to the finals to win one of them. This year, they haven't been blessed with an offense that scares easily like Barcelona's, but they've got a good system working for them and stability within the squad which has seen only two big players leave year before last. So there's a a closeness amongst the players combined with a return in form for several key players in Rooney and Carrick. The inclusion of Rio Ferdinand has added a sense of security amongst belief and team effort from every player involved in a game. Their ability to successfully play out their manager's tactics at this stage of the season, is all the more reason to be positive that they can progress too, without having to play attractively and still get a decent result. They've got players who can soak up the pressure and then strike when given the opportunity. That's what we saw against Chelsea in both legs of the quarter-finals. They won the tie playing defensive and putting in a tremendous work rate to balance out the decrease in forward threat. Its not the pretty football that I'd like to see, it's certainly risky, it keeps you on the edge of your seat but so far, so good. They are a team that can punish you when the momentum is going against them and on the counter-attack. They don't look like changing an awful lot of strategy and will play to their current strengths. Ferguson will pray that he can keep the same squad fit and not change any of the players involved in the Chelsea victory. The team are coming into good form and belief and there's little that Fergi will want to change so as to not disturb the dynamics and effectiveness of his current starting line up. That will be the key to their progression from the semi final into the finals.

All four teams have a very different approach to their respective games and if you had to pair any team from this lot, you'd still get a game that would be as exciting to watch. They will play to their strengths. Some will stick to tactics, and others, will not want to change their style that got them to this stage in the first place. I feel Man United and Real Madrid are those teams that will adhere to strict tactics with the opponents they are facing in Shalke and Barcelona respectively. Their opponents will demand whether they play to their strengths or tactics that will mentally overpower their competition in search for Europe's ultimate prize in Wembley come May.

Here are your Semi - Final Fixtures. ( 26/04, 27/04 & 03/05, 04/05 )

Shalke 04 vs Manchester United.
Real Madrid vs Barcelona


Barcelona vs Real Madrid
Manchester United vs Shalke 04

Manchester United v/s Fulham Line Up

Ferguson and Rooney are out! Ferguson misses his third game as per the FA conditions while Wayne begins his two match ban this evening. Hopefully no one gets injured in training or at warm-up before the game tonight.

We have been finding some good form of late and as cheesy as this may sound, some belief in our ability to churn out results even when we're not playing to the capacity that we are capable of.

No doubt Ferguson will have a better view on proceedings from the stands and it will kind of be like playing on FIFA 11 for him. So, banning him as actually helped his cause rather than diminish our chances of silverware this season.

Fulham come to Old Trafford with two wins in their last 3 games and should be relishing the prospect of playing United without a certain Wayne Rooney and Alex Ferguson. That will give them the impetus they need to get something out of this game. They aren't in any danger being in tenth position and are certainly not fighting the relegation battle given that there are only eight points separating the second half of the table. Mark Hughes, a former United legend himself, will be upbeat but he might have to do a little more to break down the reds defense especially if Ferdinand and Vidic start for the hosts. Chris Smalling would love to be on that pitch as well given that he only moved from the Cottagers nine months ago while another former Fulham stopper will hope to put his calf strain that he picked up in mid week against Chelsea to help United's cause for a 19th Premier League Title.

POSSIBLE TEAM LINE UPS:

Manchester United ( 4-4-2 )

                    Van Der Saar

Fabio         Ferdinand  Vidic         Evra

Valencia    Carrick   Anderson     Nani

                              Giggs

               Berbatov

SUBS:

Kuszczak

Brown

Smalling

O'shea

Gibson

Scholes

Chicharito

Fulham ( 4-5-1 )

                  Schwarzer

Baird    Pantsil   Hangeland  Salcido 

Duff      Murphy     Sidwel       Gera

                   Dempsey

                   Zamora

SUBS:

Stockdale

Hughes

Senderos

Greening

Davies

Johnson

Dembele

Finally, Bridged Over Troubled Waters!

How great these moments are in football where you know you deserved a victory and you got some 'overdue' luck that you deserved for playing well. You know where this is going - This post is going to be dominated by the united fan in me for reasons that are quite obvious!

          FULL - TIME
Chelsea 0-1 Manchester United.
                  24" Wayne Rooney.

Carrick picks out Giggs with a cross field long ball to the left flank. Neither Boswinga nor Giggs expected that ball but Giggs happened to be jogging towards Chelsea's goal while Boswinga was back peddling. Giggsy's first touch took his marker out of the game for the moment and the agile winger raced into the box sliding the ball to Rooney who adjusted to meet the ball, angling his body, thus placing the ball into the net off the post leaving Cech with no chance.

On a night where we might have not dominated in possession, we certainly did so in goals! Just one goal separating a game where United had to compromise on attack and contain and counter attack to meet Chelsea's relentless ability to pressure the opposition into self destructing. We didn't succumb. We held on. We played fair. We won with only 3 shots on target against Chelsea's 6, netting one of those in with the help of the post. The rest of the time, we just crowded out our defense forcing Chelsea to take shots from the edge of the box. With their misfiring strikers, all we had to do was just put bodies in deep in our half and block shots, if not crosses. Neither team was creative. For us, it was quite clear. Do not concede. We did better by scoring one.

Roo are you!!!! Roo are you!!!
Chelsea were outclassed on the night where Rooney showed the world another side to him, so different from the one he portrayed at West Ham last week. He was calm, composed and played the role of a sitting striker, trying to feed Hernandez and spearheading our midfield. He was magnificent. He ran his socks off all over the park and did not for once in his entire footballing career, look hassled by the other team; on a night where he picked himself up from late challenges only to get on with it and not look back. I never expected that. He looked very mature on that pitch and I'm sure that's the same Wayne Rooney we will all want to see at Old Trafford on Tuesday night. A man returning to form at the right time when the whole world including the F.A. and the Press were conspiring against him. He's starting to win over one of them.

The best form of Offence is Defense!
Aside from that brilliant goal line clearance from Evra and Van Der Saar's tipping save off Torre's goal-bound header, our defense was close to impenetrable. Chelsea didn't offer much threat inside the box. We had Ferdinand back on a night when we needed composure and dual leadership at the back. His fitness worried me a bit as I'm sure it did too for Ferguson as well, but his experience and change of game over the last two odd years wherein he just sticks to intercepting crosses rather than going in for tackles unless absolutely necessary gave our team some balance and more importantly, confidence - with full respect to the quickly maturing Chris Smalling. Evra and Rafael are there for that. When the latter got injured, I like many fans, was quite puzzled when Fergi brought on Nani - who was slightly off the ball, pulling Valencia to right back. But Ferdinand's experience as a captain helped Valencia settle into that odd position really well. I'm sure Vidic was really happy to have him back because he can't teach smalling and look out for Torres and Drogba at the same time. At least not in this big a game. Ferdinand's inclusion certainly raised everyone's confidence, security and game. Michael Carrick played exceptionally well and If Rooney hadn't showed what a world-class performance he put in that night, Carrick would be my man of the match. He made United's fifth man in defense by tracking back when Chelsea had possession in our half while he also picked out Ryan Giggs for the opening goal with a bloody brilliant sixty yard pass.

The Wolf who cried Foul!
This tie, like many other Chelsea/United clashes, wasn't without any controversy. Last month, Chelsea were awarded a spot kick for a nothing challenge as Chris Smalling merely stood his ground against an on rushing Zhirkov. Yet, it was "contact" in the box and the resulting play was a set piece from the penalty spot. I didn't complain. I think we probably didn't deserve it and felt it was harsh but as per the law of the game, it was a penalty. Luiz wasn't sent off for late tackles but you know what? For me, I accepted it and moved on. I would've taken the same decision if it happened to us in another game. Just like Drogba's goal that sealed a 2-1 victory to the Blues at OT last year in a decisive game, where, when he received the ball for the resulting goal, was two yards off-side!!! Turned out that they later won the league by one point. But for me, that's water under the bridge.
So when Evra felled Ramires, yes, in my opinion, it was a penalty. We got lucky. They mightn't have scored or they might have. who knows... Torres dived shortly afterwards and got a yellow card. Also, he did dive early in the first half too but he did himself a favour by picking himself up before the referee had; with the help of a first yellow card. So, technically he should have been sent off. But I guess that both teams had their unfair share of fortune, right? Parity now?

Tic Tactics are gonna get you!
Manchester United gambled with their line up and it payed off for us. Chelsea worked with the wrong strike force. Its sad that Ancelotti has no full control over his selection. The recently acquired 50 million pound Spaniard, "had" to start, and with Drogba, you can never ever rule them out. But I think Drogba with and Kalou or Anelka, would've been even more threatening. Sadly, even as Anelka came on, it was the Drog who made his way off. Great for United but not for Chelsea as this striker performs really well in general keeping aside the theatrics he's acquired from Westend. I'm sure their some of their fans would agree with me on that one. Torres hasn't been able to gel with the rest of the team and he needs more time and less pressure to start finding his feet even at this level. That's what pre-Season games are meant for. That was the difference between the two sides. We were quite happy to sit back and soak up all the pressure and then counter-attack when presented with the opportunity, while Chelsea were forced to lead a high defensive line and generally push higher up the pitch. Our defense was tight while Chelsea's was rarely threatened. But we were a bit more clinical in front of goal thanks to coming into form Wayne Rooney.

Here are my summations of our squad and their performances on the night.

1. Van Der Sar. Two class saves and rarely threatened from set pieces. Like his counterpart, had nothing much to do.
2. Rafael. Slightly sluggish but coming off actually worked in our favour rather than against us.
3. Rio Ferdinand. Composure. A rock with Vidic and played well after missing out for two months. Added a sense of security for us United players and Fans alike!
4. Nemanja Vidic. Looked at ease after his partner returned to action. He finally got the better of Torres and hopefully he's put those demons behind him.
5. Patrice Evra. Played well against the pacey Boswinga. Made two vital challenges in the box, of which the second was down to pure luck for not conceding a penalty and worse, getting sent off.
6. Michael Carrick. Looks very sharp and confident as he returns to form and still very much the anchor of United's midfield.
7. Park Ji-Sung. Industrious. Nothing more. Nothing less. Does what he's asked to do and he delivers in a high profile game whether he's on the score sheet or not.
8. Ryan Giggs. Still got the energy and speed to out run his marker at rare moments when he choses to. But they pay off most often than not.
9. Antonio Valencia. He's back. He's our most potent threat. Surprisingly, our goal came from the left wing! But as always he's adventurous and the shift he put in at right back was immaculate thanks to Ferdinand's presence.
10. Wayne Rooney. A skilled goal, though only a tap in. Took Essien out of the game when we weren't in possession and filled the void between the midfield and forwards.
11. Chicharito. Because of our tactics, he didn't get much service but he always kept Chelsea's defense on their toes, thus keeping them contained and a bit pegged back in their own half.
12. Nani. Sluggish. Needs more game time to regain that deadly form.
13. Dimitar Berbatov. When introduced, I think he too knew, that he'd hardly touch the ball.
14. Chris Smalling. Introduced at the death just to finish off the last thirty seconds of added time

We actually played with ten men contributing. With less service for our strikers, the eleventh man ( the forwards, in this case ) was only meant to keep Chelsea's defense alert. He was there to make up our numbers, constructively.

Player Ratings out of 10
1. Van Der Sar - 8
2. Rafael - 6
3. Ferdinand - 7
4. Vidic - 7
5. Evra - 8
6. Carrick - 9
7. Park - 7
8. Giggs - 7
9. Valencia - 7
10. Rooney - 9
11. Chicharito - 7
12. Nani - 6
13. Berbatov ... really not worth mentioning!
14. Smalling... came on too late!

Now lets look forward to the second leg. Should be very very interesting. I see Chelsea getting an away goal or maybe even two if we can't keep our men fit for Tuesday and focused although I doubt that they'll be complacent against Chelsea.

Great game guys!!! I don't mean to brag, but for me personally, sitting among a majority of Chelsea fans was a treat. This result made my ride back home on my cycle so so sweet!!! Scarves were flying about and a red cycle to match that! I had a flight to catch the next morning at 11 am luckily for me, so I ended up watching the first half all over again! It was worth the lessened hours of sleep...

Champions League Quarter-Finals Preview

So, it begins. Tonight, Tottenham Hotspurs take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in what is arguably Spur's toughest test so far after brushing aside the giants from Milan; both A.C. and Inter. Real Madrid look menacing when they are in top form but they can be very sporadic about that when it comes to the Champions League. Spurs on the other hand, have been knocking them out of the park every time they've been pitched with some the biggest guns in Europe. It'll be a very difficult one to call. Real Madrid have the history, the the experience and most of the worlds best players in Higuain, Ronaldo, Cassilas and many more. To top off all of that, they've got Jose Mourinho one of the most successful managers in this millennium guiding them. Tactically, he can pull it off over both legs. He'll play defensive even if he has to just to get the job done. Redknapp on the other hand can weave some of his magic and can inspire his team at some stage, bringing out the best in them. He's got a squad young in experience but, they're fearless and will have a go at anyone with Bale and Van Der Vaart in their ranks. That's all the inspiration they need and of course, Gomes, their keeper, not to have one of his worst days between the sticks. Tonights game promises to be a close one, if not a high scoring one and I'm sure that any football fan out there supporting any club aside from Inter and Shalke will be intrigued by this fixture and they should be watching a good game of football.

Inter Milan host Shalke at the San Siro. Inter's cauldron hasn't been the fortress it used to be a few years ago. It's still a daunting place to come to but they've had this knack of conceding at home while also finding the net when it matters. So this tie really cannot be decided over the first leg and we'll have to see how Shalke shape up tonight. Im sure that although everyone is tipping Inter to breeze through, I think they might find a very stubborn Shalke side offering resistance in their midfield while they might only keep one forward up front. I'd actually like to see them go for Inter's throat and surprise a few people. But that might be the case in a fantasy football world. Inter have started to rediscover some of their magnificent resolve they showed against Munich last time out and that might just give them the upper hand tonight as I'm quite sure, they'll go all out to put Raul & Co. to bed as early as possible. Should be a good match to watch if both teams play offensive football.

Chelsea host Manchester United in the biggest game this quarter-final has to offer. To make this one short, Chelsea are major pissed at losing 2008 final to us; although they'd have to blame John Terry for that. United have felt hard done in the last couple of games we've played there in the League and will want to prove a point to themselves that they can actually win at the Bridge for the first time in seven years. I will elaborate more on this tomorrow when my emotions are building up as game time approaches us!!! Stay tuned...Should be a nail-biting / end-to-end game.

Shakhtar Donetsk travel to Barcelona as the underdogs not surprisingly. Barcelona are arguably the best team in the world at the moment and I believe that they'll be going into this game with a lot of confidence looking to do all the usual stuff they did against Arsenal; out play their opponents by keeping 70% possession. Or more. If Shakhtar were to walk away with anything, it'll be in the second leg. They've got a good record playing at home this season, and have actually won at the Nou Camp before. They are, of course, the underdogs of this tournament. In fact, I'm actually tipping Shakhtar to surprise everyone including Barcelona and win the tie over the two legs. The Catalans might think that they have that semi-final berth in the bag, but I think they're in for a big surprise. Cannot wait to see that game too. 

Its good to have football back again after two weeks off. A much needed break I suppose. It was all getting  a bit too hectic with the UEFA, the League, the FA Cup, the Carling Cup and what not. The Cricket World Cup provided some entertainment at the right time but Football is always a priority! We've got an exciting end to the season to watch out for and the fun has only just begun!!!

We love this game...

Of bans, and victories and more bans

At half time, I said to myself, it's one of those days where we will be on the winning side. It had that feeling I suppose where we will get something out of this game. It feels like the Blackpool game. I'm not worried, I'm not concerned. I'm positively hopeful and that's it.

We were two goals down to West Ham United at Upton park last Saturday courtesy to two silly penalties conceded by our left back and central defender. It was laughable. We probably didn't deserve to be losing that much inside the first 30 minutes but they caught us off-guard on the counter-attack on both occasions so we only had ourselves to blame for some ghastly defending. Then, on either side of half-time, we were lucky not to have Vidic sent off on two occasions; one for a last man bringing down the attacker for which he only got yellow carded for that and after the interval, a mis-timed challenge that definitely warranted a second yellow. That was the luck we needed. At that point, I was ready to take a draw still knowing, that a victory was very much on the cards. 

West Ham tired as the game wore on and we got on our substitutes in Berbatov and Hernandez at the right times in the second half to add more energy and composure in front of goal to give ourselves a chance of stealing a vital victory right from our rival's noses. Rooney curled a beautiful free-kick just inside the right post to give us the initiative to press forward even more. He soon doubled his and United's tally by controlling Valencia's pass with a sublime first touch before placing his shot across the keeper and into the net. The pressure paid off ten minutes from time when Fabio did very well to first lob his marker on the bye-line, cut into the box before evading a tackle from Upson who when after he managed to pick himself up off the ground in time to block Fabio's lofted cross, in my opinion, destined for the the penalty spot with one of our players waiting to pounce at the end of it, literally handed the ball to us giving Wayne Rooney the chance to put West Ham to the sword. And  he did so with ease, taking the pressure of us a little bit by abusing the camera. Hernandez calmed us down by adding a quick fourth. 4 goals in as little as 18 minutes made life a lot easier for us that evening as both Chelsea and Arsenal drew leaving United to enjoy some much needed breathing space at the top. I was relieved, happy, overcome with this feeling that I knew we could do it and do it, we did! Ahh... well done guys.

I'd seen it happen at Blackpool before and on other numerous occasions. the 5-3 come from behind victory against Spurs a while ago, 3-2 against Villa in 02, if I remember correctly. Anyway, the point is, we believed that we can always come out of adversity after making it very very difficult for ourselves. On most occasions, it happens to be within the same game! Good for us. 

Bad for us is the fact that Rooney got a two match suspension for his little outburst which now rules him out for the Fulham game at home in the Premier League and the F.A. Cup semi-final clash against a resurgent Manchester City. Should he decide to appeal against that successfully, he'd only miss the league game. Should he fail, he'd get banned for an extra game which would see him sit out the the Newcastle game ( away ) in the league in addition to the first two he's already scheduled to miss out on. The only thing going for him having the ban reversed to a game is that he apologized almost immediately. I say its a good gamble to take. Ferguson and Rooney could enjoy watching these games from the stand while one chews gum and the other, flashes his evenly spaced out teeth which are brown in colour. Maybe he's better of at home cussing his luck, Taping himself doing that, and putting it onto YouTube, tagging the FA in it. That'll show 'em.
I feel that we're being victimized here a little and that's sad. But you know what, I say bring it on. We've not been at our best and the FA probably think that that's not enough to win the league and FA cup. So we'll have to pull a few rabbits from the hat, not to have a week or two of shortcomings. 

Its been a good start to the final third of the season. We've just about kept our heads above the water, while others have a lot of ground to make although they might still have a game or two in hand but we've got the points; that's most important. We're coming into good form at the right time. not peaked, and far from that I'd say. I don't think we can peak this season because of the injuries we've sustained this season and we're almost to the end of it but maybe, we can do just about enough to taste a bit of success in at least one out of three competitions, realistically speaking. Like I said before, I'm positively hopeful. It'll be a great end to our campaign if we can achieve something when everyone wrote us off for not having a the squad of yesteryears, strength in depth and bans to top it all off. 

Come on United.