Villa 1 - 1 United

DDG

Jones Carrick Evans

Valencia(Wilson) Fletcher(Blackett) Mata Rooney Young

Falcao van Persie (Di Maria)

So Happy For Him

Well that was a bit of a let down, wasn't it? Before the game I expected that we were going to win our 7th game on the trot because Villa Park has been quite kind to us over the years. We started like we meant to go but a moment of brilliance (and poor defending by Evans) from Benteke put Villa in front. There was no way De Gea, with all the super powers we believe he possesses, could have saved that. Evans was poor on this occasion, he has looked clueless whenever he played this year. He either needs more game time or a back-three formation doesn't suit his style of play. Anyway, our play slowed down during the first half and we had a chance or two but nothing their goalie couldn't deal with. 

We started the second half very brightly and some fine work on the left by my man of the match, Young, led to our equaliser. It was oh so sweet to see Falcao finish Young's cross and his celebration brought a smile to my face. That goal looked like it meant the world to him as he ran towards the United supporters who went absolutely mental. Falcao seems like a nice chap, he deserved his goal today and may more follow. He could have scored the second a few seconds later but mishit Rooney's ball. We were gathering momentum and were attacking all the time. Our mission was made easier with Agbonglahor's ridiculous dismissal (it was never a red) after a foul on Young. However, it wasn't to be. Di Maria hit a few shots at Villa's keeper but that was probably it. We had some shots on target but they were all easily saved. In fact, I actually think that, with 10 men, Villa had better chances to win the game. That final chance they had, which was brilliantly defended by Jones, could have easily won them the game.

We started the first half brightly but faded by half time. We were much better during the second half. Why? Fletcher was subbed off and Blackett replaced Carrick at the back while the latter was reinstated in the middle of the park. I don't think Fletch is up to Man Utd's standards anymore. That illness definitely took its toll on him. We missed Feallaini and Herrera dearly today. We would have probably won it had either of them been on the pitch. Fellaini's presence is better than Fletcher's while Herrera's passing is miles ahead of our Scotman's. What about Mata? I had forgotten he was playing up till the 30th minute or so when the camera zoomed on him. Very disappointing. 

Anyway, I'm not too disheartened. There was a time, during the past few weeks, when I started to dream we will make the greatest comeback of all time and pip Chelsea and City to the league. That won't happen. This game gave us a reality check that our defence is still a tad shit and we're one world class player or two short of being on par with Chelsea and City. Third place should be our aim. Get back in Europe, bring in the players we need and then we'll see what happens from then on. We're still on the right track. It's been a while since we lost a game and that's very positive. What's a tad worrying is that our away form isn't the greatest. However, we look like we've turned Old Trafford into the fortress it once was. Newcastle next on boxing day. I heard they have no goalies. Step forward messrs Rooney, RVP and Radamel....I expect a good win. Come on United!

I Wish You All a Beautiful Red Christmas :)