14-02-2021, 18:37
(This post was last modified: 14-02-2021, 18:39 by Slick_Footwork.)
I thought today was probably our best performance of the season so far.
Despite having to do plenty of rear guard action, our defence didn't look as exposed as it has done typically this season. In addition to that, we carried a real threat on the break and looked capable of scoring. Despite United having most of the ball, we probably made the better chances. As well as Diagne's two chances he missed, we also had the Pereira shot that he dragged wide and the Snodgrass header.
I expected a much better performance with Yokuslu sitting and I think we got that. It will probably go unnoticed, but he won the header which lead to our goal. Also provided real help for the full backs, twice dealing with Rashford after he beat Connor Townsend. No surprise that his inclusion made out full backs look much more accomplished. Simple things for someone in that position, but simple things we have been missing all season.
My only gripe was that we were just getting pushed too deep first half when United were on the hunt for the equaliser. The players need to be brave enough to push 5-10 yards higher even when we are under the cosh. But to be fair to our defenders, there wasn't a lot they could do about the goal with Fernandes able to take on the volley that was behind him. There are not many players with the quality to score that.
Now 4 big games against Burnley, Brighton, Newcastle and Palace. We can at least go into the games with a bit of confidence after today.
Despite having to do plenty of rear guard action, our defence didn't look as exposed as it has done typically this season. In addition to that, we carried a real threat on the break and looked capable of scoring. Despite United having most of the ball, we probably made the better chances. As well as Diagne's two chances he missed, we also had the Pereira shot that he dragged wide and the Snodgrass header.
I expected a much better performance with Yokuslu sitting and I think we got that. It will probably go unnoticed, but he won the header which lead to our goal. Also provided real help for the full backs, twice dealing with Rashford after he beat Connor Townsend. No surprise that his inclusion made out full backs look much more accomplished. Simple things for someone in that position, but simple things we have been missing all season.
My only gripe was that we were just getting pushed too deep first half when United were on the hunt for the equaliser. The players need to be brave enough to push 5-10 yards higher even when we are under the cosh. But to be fair to our defenders, there wasn't a lot they could do about the goal with Fernandes able to take on the volley that was behind him. There are not many players with the quality to score that.
Now 4 big games against Burnley, Brighton, Newcastle and Palace. We can at least go into the games with a bit of confidence after today.