Cluj 1 - 2 United

DDG

Rafael Rio Evans (Wootton) Evra

Anderson Cleverley Fletcher

Rooney

Chicharito RVP

So we've managed to get another 3 points against a very average football team. Cluj's only intention was to defend and then try to produce a fast break. Amazingly, they only attacked our defenders a maximum of 5 times during the game and we still managed to concede a goal. This is becoming a habit now. We've only not conceded first in 3 games this season. (Vs Galatasaray, vs Wigan and vs Newcastle.) Although United managed to fight their way to the 3 points on most occasions, it's still a worrying fact. The big guns won't let us back in the game if they get in front!

Along Rafel, these were the best performers on the night

RVP scored a double and had a reasonably good game. His first goal was a fluke but the second was brilliantly taken. He also helped the boys at the back with great effect. More of the same please! My man of the match was Wayne Rooney. He had a free role behind our strikers and was terrific. Wayne got two assists and was involved in most attacks. His partnership with Cleverley was a big positive out of this match. With our midfield worryingly poor of late, Roo could easily play in a midfield role and make it his own. The problem is that the opportunity cost if such a decision is taken would be huge. Wayne up front will score goals but Fergie needs to choose between goals and a grip-hold of most games. With Wayne in the middle, I doubt whether teams would be given the opportunity to grab the game by the scruff like Tottenham did last Saturday. We'll wait and see.

Anderson and Fletcher played the ball well at times but its obvious that neither is match fit. I understand Fletcher's case but I'm not sure how on earth Anderson can't get match fit. Too many pies? Possibly.

Evra was pants. He doesn't deserve to wear the United shirt. He's oh so annoying. He plays like shit during most games and then gives interviews about how United need to improve and all that bull. During Vidic's absence, he'll probably be given the armband. He doesn't deserve it. I'd rather see Roo wearing it! 

It was evident that the instructions by Fergie (for most of the second half) were to pass the ball and waste time rather than go for the kill. A 2-1 scoreline is a very dangerous one and if it wasn't for De Gea, we'd easily be looking back at another Champions League let down. Welbeck, Rooney & Anderson all got in decent positions late in the game, only to turn back and pass the ball to whoever was following the action. Al-right we preserved the lead but that was a dangerous game to play. 

6 points, top of the table and I still complain. We're too spoilt! 

Newcastle away next. If Cisse and Ba were watching last Saturday's defensive display, then they've probably been licking their lips ever since. Let's hope we don't see last season's horror show. I'm not too optimistic though!