Chelsea 2 - 2 United

Another late post but I had a football match with my local team on the island of Gozo (Malta) straight after the United vs Chelsea game. Just like United, we drew the game against the table leaders. Unlike United, we are now in second place on the table. Just like United, my team was shit during the first half and really good during the second. 

After our great final 20 minute performance vs Newcastle, it was pretty much back to normal vs Chelsea during the first half. We were second best against a side that looked determined to kill us. That said, Chelsea rarely troubled our defence and scored a goal that could have been easily avoided by Pogba.

During the second half we were a better side and it was a joy to watch our players play with so much pride. I don’t know what Mou told them in the dressing room, but it worked wonders. Martial was flying, Mata was excellent, Pogba effective, while Young and Smalling were both really good. Anthony scored two well taken goals, the second one was brilliantly worked by Mata and Rashford. Herrera should have scored the third and put the game to bed but missed a very good chance. To be honest, when I saw him running to the ball, I knew he was going to miss. He looked like Bambi making his first steps.

That miss cost us dearly as Chelsea managed to draw level right at the death. The goal sparked some controversial moments as one of Chelsea’s coaching staff went to celebrate in front of Jose. I loved Mourinho’s reaction and our subs getting off their seat to fight their manager’s corner was also a big positive. If they really don’t care about Manchester United and their manager, then they would have stayed comfortably in their seat. After all, why would they be bothered that somebody was taking the piss in front of them after drawing level in the final minute if they didn't really care? 

All in all I must say that, given the situation, I am disappointed we dropped two points. On the balance of play, we were better than Chelsea. I honestly don’t remember the last time we went to Stamford Bridge and were better than them and we almost beat them in this game. I would have taken a draw before the game though so a point at the Bridge is not all doom and gloom.

The tests get harder now, Juventus tomorrow.