Still a much better performance than the last 2 nightmarish outings.
The defence was fortress-like, nicely tight and compact. Except for a long-range effort, I don't recall VDS making another stretch, let alone Villa creating any real chance at all.
I am most impressed by the ever-improving Anderson with his sweet left foot. He looked so composed and powerful in the middle of the park. Can't believe he is Brazilian (still remember Kleberson once in a while and shudder), just 19 and only at halfway mark of his first season in England. Hope to see him running more at opponents in future games. What a sight to behold, isn't it?. Breathtaking. Awsome.
The contrasting disappointment must be Carrick. He perhaps played a bit better than previous games but hardly a shadow of his former self last season when he was playing alongside Scholes. His distribution was poor and looked terribly short on confidence. In fact, since the arrival of Anderson, he is looking more and more out of sorts in the engine room. And with the anticipated return of Scholes, I am afraid he will be sent further down the pecking order.
A pleasant surprise was Saha. I think he is looking sharper and more confident with each progressive game under his belt. His movement and holding of the ball was excellent. This certainly augers well for us for the rest of the season.
Of course, the introduction of Rooney sealed the match for us. Suddenly, things started to flow and the swagger returned with more bite to the attacks, in particular....
Can't wait for the next game.
