The Liverpool and Manchester United derby ended with a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford this Sunday afternoon. United’s abysmal form in the premier league compared to Liverpool’s 8 win streak made the men from Liverpool favourites to win the derby. With Pogba and Martial being ruled out with injuries, United were left with Daniel James and Juan Mata for the attack.
The match begun with both sides going at each other. Firmino failed to capitalise from Liverpool’s counter attack in the opening minutes of the game, allowing De Gea for an easy save. However, it was not long after that in the 36′ minute that Lindelof won the ball from Origi which allowed Daniel James to run through the right flank and give a precise cross to Rashford who scored the opener of the game. Many Liverpool players argued with the ref over a potential foul on Origi by Lindelof and upon the review from VAR, the goal was given to United as they opened the scoring to the game, leaving the favourites to win the Premier League in shock.
However, Liverpool provided a quick response as Trent Alexander Arnold gave a feisty ball to Mane into United’s box who controlled it and scored. In disarray, the United players protested for the handball and reviewing the replay from VAR, it was a handball and the goal was denied. United went into halftime leading the Merseyside red’s by 1-0.
In the 85’minute of the game, Robertson played a ball into United’s box and with Lallana unmarked at the far post, a simple tap in allowed the reds to equalise the game ending the derby at full time with the scores 1-1.
A great response from the men in red from Manchester who fought a tough draw in the derby against league leaders after their horrendous form. The creativity in their plays backed up with their solid defense from their new 3-4-2-1 formation gave them width and depth in attack and defense. Has Ole found the cure to United’s disease? Who knows. However, it will be exciting to see where it takes us as a football club.
Imad
Manchester United 