Three is the magic number for United.

Manchester United 3 Aston Villa 1

Three goals, three points and third place.

At last, after the International break it was a welcome return to the Premier League where the run-in for the final four places for Champions League qualification started in earnest.

Before the break, United had the wind behind them as they swept away Spurs and Liverpool to open a gap between themselves and sat in a promising looking fourth place. In their sights were Arsenal and Man City.

You had to wonder whether United's  momentum would be slightly stalled due to the enforced break.
There was good news in that no player picked up an injury while away on duty, all except Chris Smalling, who had to leave the pitch playing for England due to an illness.

The last eight games will define United's season and first up was the visit to Old Trafford of Aston Villa and their new manager Tim Sherwood.

The last time the teams played was at Villa Park in December, when a Falcao header rescued a point for a stuttering United against ten men Villa.

Louis van Gaal made one change to the starting eleven that defeated Liverpool and that was Rojo who replaced Smalling.

The team: De Gea, Valencia, Jones, Rojo, Blind, Carrick, Mata, Herrera, Fellaini, Young and Rooney. On the bench were Da Silva, Di Maria, Falcao, Januzaj, Valdes, McNair and Pereira.

It was good to see that van Gaal continued to have faith in the players who have served him well over the last month.

Villa kicked the match off in the Old Trafford sunshine with United attacking the scoreboard end on a pitch that looked perfect for the match ahead.

As expected, former Villan Ashley Young was booed from his very first touch by the away fans, how long has it been since he left Villa?

It was Young who was first to try his luck with a run and shot that was blocked in the third minute.
60 seconds later United were denied a clear cut penalty as Rooney was held back in the box by defender Clark.

Fellaini received a through ball and played a nice little pass to the captain who was in on goal until he was hauled back by Clark. How that was not a penalty only the referee Roger East knows.

Villa went straight down the other end and nearly caused confusion in the United area which could have been worse before being cleared.

Fellaini started the match well proving that LvG's assessment of him in the pre-match press conference was spot on. His performances had earned him an automatic starting place.

On 9 minutes there was a superb run by Young into the opposing area which created a scoring chance for Anfield hero Mata who was standing unmarked on the penalty spot. He side-footed a shot towards goal but it was blocked by the defence.

One minute later Mata himself had a run and cross which was cleared for a corner.

10 mins in and it was exciting attacking play from the Red Devils.

After 16 minutes Rooney chased a through ball but was adjudged to have fouled the defender on the edge of the box. If that was a free-kick then the earlier foul on Rooney was a clear cut penalty.

In the first 20 minutes, it was pleasing to see that the home side hadn't lost the drive to attack that they showed before the enforced international break. They just needed to get that all important first goal.

Both Young and Mata were the live wires in United's attack as they were involved in all of the approach play.

Then out of the blue in the 23rd minute Marcos Rojo let fly from distance with a left foot thunderbolt which keeper Guzan managed to get his fingertips to and touched it over the crossbar, great strike and equally great save.

Villa did have their own spells of attacking play but lacked any threat to David de Gea's goal.

In the 26th minute, Valencia crossed from the right into the path of Rooney then the captain tried the acrobatics with an overhead shot but unfortunately didn't manage to connect properly with the ball. That would have been special.

On the half hour mark, the play had gone a little quiet as both teams failed to keep up the momentum of the first twenty minutes.

Play was held up ten minutes before half time for attention to an injury to Villa's Hutton, this gave a chance for United to receive instructions from the sidelines as to how to break down the resolute Villa defence.

Following the delay in play Young fired over yet another wicked cross which Guzan managed to punch clear before any United player could get a touch on the ball.

Young again tried his luck after a nice ball from Carrick but once again it was blocked by the defence.

It did seem that Ashley Young was on a personal mission against his old side.

41 minutes on the clock and Daley Blind almost steered the ball low into the corner of the net however Guzan managed to save his deflected shot at the last second.

Then in the 43rd minute Old Trafford erupted as Young and Blind combined down the left to lay the ball into the path of Ander Herrera who smacked a low left-footed shot into the far corner of the goal. A fantastic strike which was cooly taken by the Spaniard.

The goal was exactly what United needed and their play fully deserved the lead.

Herrera followed the goal up with a fabulous crossfield pass to Young who in turn delivered the ball into the box where both Rooney and Rojo had chances to double the lead but failed to do so.

The first half ended with United only leading 1-0 as it should really have been more and it would have been if not for the Villa defence, the goalkeeper and the referee.

No changes were made by van Gaal at the start of the second half and as he strode down the touchline he looked distinctly pleased with how everything was going. Let's hope he would still be smiling after ninety minutes.

United started the half as they had finished the first on the attack, as Fellaini managed to get his head to a cross, but couldn't direct it on goal in front of the anticipating Stretford End.

On 48 minutes, Carrick was fouled near the edge of the box but the free kick was taken too quickly and from the clearance Villa counter attacked. If not for a miskick from Benteke they could have equalised.

All the more reason United needed a second goal quickly to give themselves some breathing space.
A few minutes later and there was Ashley Young with his trademark cut inside and right footed shot which was only slightly wide of the post.

At the back, Phil Jones was enjoying one of his better games for a long while up against Benteke and was getting well and truly clattered in doing so.

In the 55th minute Rooney won a free-kick in a promising position which he left for Mata to take but the sun must have been in his eyes as the ball sailed harmlessly over the bar, that's the excuse I would have given.

Just before the hour mark Young switched to the right wing to try his luck from there but hastily returned to his favoured left when a few exchanges between himself and Valencia didn't come off.

Like the first half there was a period of ten minutes when the play from both sides fell flat but normal service was restored when Valencia sent over a delightful cross which Fellaini should have done better with as he tried to place his header downward rather than thump it home.

This seemed to bring the match back to life.

Old bad habits in United's defence re-surfaced in the 66th minute as they played the ball agonisingly around the edge of their own area, which displeased the home support. We all know from past experiences what can happen when the team does that.

Two minutes later  Rooney almost doubled United's lead with an effort using the outside of his boot which just flashed wide.

As the match entered the last twenty minutes you got feeling that fresh legs were needed and so it proved as Louis van Gaal made his first change of the day by taking off the hardworking Young and replacing him with Angel di Maria.

The Argentine had 20 mins to prove himself in front of the fans who dearly want him to be a success at Old Trafford.

On 71 minutes, Mata won a corner which was punched clear by the keeper straight into the path of Blind who had his sight on goal blocked by the referee.

A few minutes later, Rojo gave away a free kick on the edge of the area from which Okore almost managed to head in.

United's second change came a minute later when Fellaini was replaced by Falcao, who like Di Maria, had a point to prove to the doubters in the ranks.

Then in the 78th minute Wayne Rooney produced a moment of brilliance that made it 2-0. He somehow managed to control a cross from Di Maria with his back to goal with his left foot and hit a half volley while spinning 180 degrees with his right that sailed into the roof of the net.

It was a truly fantastic strike and a wonderful assist from Di Maria, which takes his total to ten for the season.

The home fans celebrations were slightly muted as a minute later Benteke scored for Villa from a corner with a shot that squirmed under the body of De Gea to set up a nervy last 10 minutes.
In all honesty, I believe that is the first mistake David de Gea has made all season.

Di Maria broke away at speed in the 86th minute but, unfortunately, there was no teammate able to keep up with him so the move broke down.

Since the changes of players, United seemed to lose a little of the zest they had in the first hour of the match. Apart from a couple of corners they didn't manage to trouble Villa that much.

Then in the 91st minute came the icing on the cake when Herrera scored his second and United's third after fine approach play from Rooney and Mata.

They combined together on the right-hand side of the box to play the ball into the path of Herrera who delightfully side-footed the ball into the net.

3-1 up and game over.

The home side fully deserved their win and the quality of their play at times was reminiscent of days gone by. All three goals were of the highest calibre especially Rooney's who now has another strike to add to his masterpiece collection.

Ander Herrera capped a man of the match display with his two excellent goals and together with his compatriot Mata are proving their value to the team's progress up the table.

United worked hard for their three points and moved above Man City into third place, at least until Monday. After which the two teams will meet at Old Trafford next weekend in a match that now has more riding on it than local bragging rights.

The way United are gelling as a team I can see no reason why they can't beat City and take one step closer to finishing above their noisy neighbours.

With only seven games remaining United stand in good stead and you get the feeling that the team are ready to end the season on a high.

Thanks for reading.

Miles Dunton.

How will United end the season?

Manchester United's Premier League run-in.

As there is no Premier League this weekend due to the latest round of International games, I thought I would take the opportunity of looking ahead to United's last eight matches of the season and share how I feel the run-in will play out.

United are currently in fourth position after soundly beating Spurs and Liverpool in their last two outings. By doing so, they have earned themselves some breathing space with the teams behind them and can start looking at clawing their way past Arsenal and Man City.

There is a total of 24 points available and providing the players remain fit and Louis van Gaal sticks to the winning formula I don't see why we can't aim high.

Whisper it quietly but there is still a mathematical chance of United finishing as Champions, but I wouldn't want to jinx that as surely it's a step too far for this season.

Looking at the fixture schedule ahead United have four home games and four away none of which look like being that big a problem for the Red Devils.

Let's take a look at each match individually.

Aston Villa (h)

The first meeting at Villa Park this season finished all square at 1-1 thanks to an equaliser from Falcao against ten man Villa. Since then Villa have replaced their manager with Tim Sherwood who took over from Paul Lambert.

However, their fortunes have not really changed in the Premier League as they are still in the bottom reaches hovering dangerously over the relegation places.

It's a different story in the FA Cup where they will meet either Blackburn or Liverpool in the semi-final. Since United were knocked out by Arsenal in the last round Villa have become my tip for the Cup.

Prediction: United players to return fresh from the Internationals and continue their good form by thumping Villa 4-0 as the visitors eyes will be on the FA Cup and later relegation battles.

Danger man: Gabriel Agbonlahor.

Manchester City (h)

At last a chance to seek revenge after the 0-1 defeat to City at The Etihad back in November. It looks like Chelsea will beat City to the title and it would be great for United to finish above our noisy neighbours and pip them to the runners-up spot.

Since the turn of the year, City's results have been up and down and this was summed up by their 1-0 defeat at the hands of Burnley.

After crashing out of the Champions League, it looks like City will end the season empty handed amid rumours that a successor to Pellegrini has already been lined up.

Prediction: United to run out 3-1 winners and add City to another of the so called big name scalps we have taken his season.

Danger man: Aguero.


Chelsea (a)

Louis van Gaal's first meeting in the Premier League against his protege Jose Mourinho took place at Old Trafford in October and ended 1-1 after a late, late strike from Dutchman Robin van Persie.

United have enjoyed their travels down to the capital this season all the more reason that they should visit Stamford Bridge full of confidence especially with their track record against the top six teams.

In all honesty, Chelsea should be close to wrapping up the league by the time we play. If they are not then it will be their own undoing as it's their title to lose.

This match will be of equal importance to both sides so I can see a cautious game that could be decided on a mistake at the back. Hopefully not by us.

Prediction: The game to end 1-1 with both teams happy to take a point in another tactical battle between the managers.

Danger man: Eden Hazard.


Everton (a)

David de Gea saved United when the two clubs met at Old Trafford at the beginning of October. The saves he made in the last few minutes of the game ensured United came out on top 2-1 and of course not forgetting the penalty he saved from Baines.

On that day, both the United goals were scored by Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao but since then the two have hardly set the league alight. Both finding it hard to get any rhythm going.

I'm sure Fellaini and Rooney will relish the return to Goodison Park to face their former club and with the great season they are having I can foresee them turning out to be the match winners.

Prediction: United to repeat the same scoreline from the first meeting 2-1 hopefully without David de Gea having to turn on the heroics again. This will also give LvG a good chance to take a closer look at full-back Seamus Coleman who has continually been linked with a move to the Red Devils.

Danger man: Aaron Lennon.


WBA (h)

The first match against WBA was another draw for United on their travels against lower opposition. This time it was a 2-2 draw in October with goals from Fellaini and Blind rescuing a point for the reds when they really should have won.

Since then WBA have been flirting within the bottom reaches of the league and are sitting eight points above the relegation spots.

They changed their manager in January by replacing Alan Irvine with relegation experienced Tony Pulis who should keep them clear of the drop as the teams below them are playing worse.

Their last outing was a 3-0 defeat by Man City a match in which they showed a lack of conviction.

Prediction: 3-0. It should be a mixture of emotions for the returning former red Darren Fletcher. If he plays he will undoubtedly receive a standing ovation from the Old Trafford faithful, but that will be the only hand of friendship United will offer.

Danger man: James Morrison.


Crystal Palace (a)

Yet another trip to the capital and a tricky match against a team that has been revitalised by new manager Alan Pardew. Palace has pace in abundance up front and that could cause the United defence some problems.

Former United winger Zaha will be licking his lips at the chance to put one over Louis van Gaal just as Danny Welbeck did for Arsenal at Old Trafford in the FA Cup quarter-final.

United won the first match at Old Trafford with a late Mata strike, but I can't see too many problems at Selhurst Park.

Prediction: United to win 2-1. A close match full of action but United to continue their good form in London by returning back up North with all three points in the bank.

Danger man: Wilfried Zaha.



Arsenal (h)

This will be the third meeting between the two rivals and it's one win apiece with United coming out on top in the league, but Arsenal balanced the books in the FA Cup.

Arsenal are favourites to lift the FA Cup, but I believe they will not therefore ending the season empty handed like United.

So, the focus on this penultimate league match will be for who finishes the highest.

The United players will be up for this match with the added incentive of gaining revenge for the cup loss. Not that United need any incentive when they play Arsene Wenger's side.

Prediction: United to win their last match of the season at Old Trafford 3-1 to round off a good season against the big clubs.

With a lap of honour but with no silverware to show I believe that the manager, his staff and the players will still feel the full support of the fans after a great end to the season.

Danger man: Olivier Giroud.


Hull City (a)

Here we are at the last match of the season away at Hull who we beat 3-0 earlier in the season.
Managed by former United legend Steve Bruce Hull have again failed to keep themselves out of danger and as I write this they are only three points away from a relegation place.

However as my choices of teams to go down don't include Hull I believe by the time they play United they will be already safe.

Prediction: United to end the season on a high and bang in the goals at the KC stadium as a marker for next season. 4-1 to the Red Devils.

Danger man: Abel Hernandez.



There you have it and if all goes according to my predictions United will end the season with seven wins and one draw to guarantee a Champions League place. And to finish above City would be even sweeter.

Then the hard work begins for LvG preparing for the challenges of next season especially in the transfer market.

Thanks for reading and whatever happens I hope you enjoy the remaining weeks of the season.

Miles Dunton.

Mata's double delight.

Liverpool 1 Manchester United 2

Forget the El Clasico over in Spain this is the big one.The two bitterest rivals in the English game faced off against each other at Anfield on the same day as Real Madrid played Barcelona.

Separated by only two points in the race for an all important top four finish this was by far the biggest match of the season so far for both sides.

The last time Liverpool tasted defeat in the Premier League was at the hands of United back in December. Then the hero of the day was David de Gea as he protected United's three-goal lead with a string of saves that cemented his hero status among the fans.

After the brilliant display against Spurs at Old Trafford last week the question on the fan's minds was whether or not Louis van Gaal would stick with the 4-3-3 system that worked so well and keep Juan Mata in the side even though Angel Di Maria was available after his suspension.

All was revealed when the starting line-up was announced: De Gea, Valencia, Jones, Smalling, Blind, Carrick, Herrera, Mata, Fellaini, Young, and Rooney.

So Louis van Gaal entrusted the same starting side that demolished Spurs in the finest 45 minutes of the season so far. Which meant no immediate return to the team for Angel Di Maria who started on the bench alongside Falcao. Also, Blind was preferred at left back again in place of the returning Rojo following the Dutchman's sterling display last weekend.

Subs: Da Silva, Rojo, Di Maria, Falcao, Januzaj, Valdes, Pereira.

United, in their white strip, started the match on the attack and in the first minute won their first corner. Mata's delivery caused confusion as the keeper flapped at it.

It was a bright start from the away side as they sought an early advantage to quieten down the home support.

Fellaini started the match in a fiery mood nipping at the heels of the Liverpool players to great effect. In the second minute, the Belgian won the ball well and fed Rooney but he chose to come inside when the two United players behind him on the flank would have been the better option.

A minute later David de Gea was called into action as he saved at the feet of Sterling as he ran into the area unchecked by the defence.

In the seventh minute Juan Mata won the first free-kick in a dangerous position and took it himself, however, it was easily cleared. The upside was that it was far better to see the midfield players stepping up to take the free-kicks and, therefore, allow Rooney to get in the box where he can do the most damage.

10 minutes in and United were in confident mood passing the ball around well and not giving the opposition time to settle which made the natives more restless than usual.

Mata had started the match in fine form and was unlucky not to get on the end of a Fellaini header after eleven minutes. But a couple of minutes later Mata was rewarded for his endeavour by scoring a goal of pure class.

It happened in the 13th minute following approach play by Fellaini who fed an inside pass to Herrera who in turn saw the run of his compatriot and slipped the ball perfectly through to Mata who finished comfortably with a right-footed shot across Mignolet and into the far side of the net. What a strike and a great start for United and fully deserved.

Great to see manager and assistant celebrating the goal together with van Gaal fist pumping then jokingly slapping Giggs in delight.

Over the next few minutes, Rooney was unlucky to be caught offside a couple of times as the visitors tried to capitalise on their possession and score the vital second goal.

It wasn't until the 16th minute that Liverpool had their first strike when Sturridge fired harmlessly wide.

Herrera had been targeted by the Liverpool players for the roughest treatment and after twenty minutes Joe Allen picked up a yellow card after fouling the United playmaker.

Another free-kick by Mata was chipped in for Fellaini's head but again it was easily cleared by the defenders. Fellaini was proving to be a handful for the defenders as he had been in recent matches so much so he was keeping Falcao on the bench even in the absence of Robin van Persie.

There was a break in action on 20 minutes after Phil Jones clattered into the back of Lallana and knocked him unceremoniously to the ground.

Just before the half hour mark there was a great play from Blind down the left as he almost played in Herrera for a chance on goal instead he won a corner.

In the first 30 minutes, it had been all United as the home side struggled to get hold of the ball and create any chances. The biggest cheer from the home fans was when their captain Gerrard warmed up along the touchline.

Liverpool wasted a great opportunity in the 34 minute when Lallana blasted wide from 18 yards when in truth he should have done better. A warning to the United defence that the one goal lead was a slender one.

United tried to conjure up a second when Mata and Blind linked up but to no great effect.

Three minutes before half-time there should have been a penalty awarded to Manchester United as following a corner Liverpool keeper Simon Mignolet appeared to rather stupidly push over Herrara, but the match officials obviously didn't see it.

At this point, United was so much on top that even Chris Smalling tried his luck with a long run into the opposing box but lacked the quality pass needed. 8/10 for effort.

On the stroke of half-time, Carrick let fly from distance with a fierce drive which the keeper could only parry clear.

Half-time and it was all United as they continued on from the Spurs win with the same momentum and were in total control and passing the ball around well. Herrera and Mata were the stand-out performers as they never stopped running and looked for an opening at every opportunity.

At the start of the second half there were no changes to the United line-up but Liverpool made a substitution by bringing their inspirational skipper Gerrard into the play and the first thing he did was to lunge into a tackle then stamp on Herrera's leg as he was on the ground.

A straight red for Gerrard and not such an inspiration, after all. It really was an awful challenge that no one can excuse and Herrera was fortunate to get up and play on. Quite why Herrera received a yellow card for nearly having his leg broken is beyond belief.

It couldn't have been any better for United to play against ten men for forty minutes but as is the same with all teams reduced to ten men Liverpool finally started to play, thankfully without applying any real pressure on David de Gea's goal.

The main objective for United was to keep their cool in a red hot atmosphere created by the Gerrard red card. The atmosphere was hostile towards the Red Devils, to say the least.

In the 53rd minute, Coutinho tried to catch de Gea unawares with a long range effort that just went over the bar. United needed to hammer home their advantage and quickly.

One minute later Louis van Gaal decided to bring on a fresh pair of legs with Di Maria replacing Young who had had a fairly quiet match up to that point.

Phil Jones was booked for a clumsy challenge on Henderson of which he could have had no complaints.

Then it happened a moment of pure genius by the player of the match. In the 59th minute, Di Maria picked out Juan Mata in the box with a superb chip and the diminutive Spaniard scored a goal with a scissor kick of the highest quality with his left foot.

2-0 ahead and not only game over but goal of the season decided as the way he executed the goal was spectacular.

On the hour mark, Di Maria broke at pace and unselfishly squared the ball into the box aimed for Rooney but the ball was agonisingly behind the England forward.

Mario Balotelli entered the fray and was immediately booked for a foul on Jones. This was the home side's game plan to rattle the United players with over aggressive play.

On 68 minutes, Sturridge managed to pull a goal back for the home side after Carrick had uncharacteristically given the ball away. With twenty minutes left all United had to do was hold on while being abused on and off the pitch.

A free-kick from Di Maria was punched clear to Carrick who then played the ball back into the danger area where Rooney clashed with Henderson, Skrtel and Mignolet but escaped unharmed and thankfully caution free.

Di Maria was guilty of giving the ball away in a dangerous area but thankfully no harm was done in the end but all the same it could have been worse as United only had the one goal lead.

United was struggling to make their extra man advantage count since the Liverpool goal and needed to defend resolutely while at the same time regaining their composure.

In the last ten minutes, you felt that United needed to grab another goal as Liverpool were starting to create chances and, after all, their hard work would be wasted especially against ten men.

In the 82nd minute, Falcao came on for the hard working Herrera which meant Rooney took Herrera's place in midfield for the last five or so minutes.

The Liverpool keeper Mignolet lost the plot around the edge of his area by nearly gifting United a free strike at goal, but he somehow got away with it.

Rooney conceded a free-kick in a dangerous area which was cleared by Fellaini and United countered with Falcao down the left but his cross missed everyone.

90 minutes on the clock and Di Maria infuriated his team mates by giving away the ball far too easily when possession was the requirement.

Into added time and United eventually started to keep hold of the ball and all that passing paid off when Blind burst into the area and was upended for a penalty by Emre Can.

Rooney strode up and placed the ball towards the corner, but Mignolet managed to save at full stretch. Surely it wouldn't matter as the game had entered it's last seconds.

While everyone concentrated on the penalty Rojo replaced Blind.

Skrtel had the last word as he stamped on de Gea and should have seen red for that terrible challenge but like so many of his colleagues got away with it.

As de Gea writhed in agony the referee blew for full-time. 2-1 to United.

There is no better place for United to win than at Anfield and with the three points they have put some breathing space between themselves and Liverpool and move closer to Arsenal and City.

An absolutely brilliant win for United and fully deserved as they were in complete control for the whole match. Many will say that Gerrard's dismissal changed the outcome of the match, but it had the opposite effect as Liverpool played better when reduced to ten men.

You can't take anything away from the way United approached the match. From the start, they were on the attack and full of purpose a trait rarely seen this season. If only they had turned on the same style earlier in the season.

All the players put in a great team effort, but there are two players who deserve the extra plaudits and they are the Spanish duo of man of the match Juan Mata and Ander Herrera. After being left on the bench many times over this season, they proved their class and warranted the starting place given to them by the manager.

With Carrick in support, they totally overpowered Liverpool and didn't allow the home team to get hold of the ball.


There will be no match next weekend due to the upcoming round of internationals which is a shame as the break could disturb the momentum that United have built-up. However, on a positive note it will give Robin van Persie the valuable time needed to recover from his injury as his goal scoring feats will be needed for the run in.

As always thanks for reading.

Miles Dunton.

United deliver Spurs a 'knockout punch'.

Manchester United 3 Tottenham Hotspur 0

Louis van Gaal was unhappy with Rooney getting knocked out in a friendly boxing bout but was pleased that his team delivered an uppercut to Spurs.

Following the bitter disappointment of defeat in the FA Cup at the hands of Arsenal it was the turn of their North London neighbours to visit Old Trafford in an attempt to pour more misery over United.

There was a time when a victory over Tottenham was about as sure a thing as you could imagine for United not so anymore as prior to this match they were without a win in five against the Londoners.

This match was the first of the last ten matches that will define United's season and form a bases for a run of wins needed to obtain that all important top four finish therefore guaranteeing a place in the Champions League.

Still without the injured striker Robin van Persie and with Angel Di Maria serving his ban for grabbing the ref's shirt in the last match Louis van Gaal chose a first team consisting of De Gea, Valencia, Jones, Smalling, Blind, Carrick, Herrera, Mata, Fellaini, Young and Rooney. The substitutes were Lindegaard, Rafael, Blackett, A Pereira, Januzaj, Falcao and Wilson.

There were three changes for United, as Jones, Carrick and Mata come in for Shaw, Rojo and Di Maria. Juan Mata made his first start in the Premier League for Man United since January 17th.

Manchester United was led out by captain Wayne Rooney and his young son Kai as the matchday mascot.

United started the match in a 4-3-3 formation with Rooney in his favoured position up front with Fellaini just behind. Young and Mata were out wide with Carrick and Herrera in the middle and a flat back four with Blind at left back.

United's first chance on goal came after a minute as Ashley Young tried his luck from outside the box which the keeper collected easily.

With only two minutes of play elapsed Phil Jones delivered that dreaded back pass again and almost put de Gea in trouble but thankfully the keeper managed to clear for a corner. When will they ever learn?

In the seventh minute, Rooney burst into the area chasing a great through ball from Young and pulled the ball back aiming for Herrera who just couldn't get there ahead of the Spurs defender.

Then a minute later came the crucial early goal and what a goal. Carrick played a brilliant through ball for Fellaini who took it in his stride and confidently smashed it past keeper Lloris. A fantastic start by United with a sublime pass by Carrick add that together with the Belgian's left-footed finish meant that this was the perfect start for the Red Devils.

In fact, it had been a high tempo start from all the team with the fans also in full voice.

This had been by far the best start by United in a game for a long time with the team attacking full of confidence and their passing was spot on. Again Young was impressive down the left and Carrick in tandem with Herrera controlled everything in the middle.

The second goal came in the 18th minute as a corner was swept over by Mata and was headed back into the danger area by Fellaini when it was cleared straight to Carrick who intelligently lobbed a header over all the defenders and back across goal into the far side of the net. Leading 2-0 and playing with a determination rarely seen recently this was like the United of old.

Carrick's goal was similar if not as crucial to the important header by Steve Bruce against Sheffield Wednesday all those years ago as United headed for their first Premier League title.

On 22 minutes, Young's run almost produced a killer pass into the penalty area but no-one was there to take advantage of his great ball. At this time, it was one-way traffic as Spurs had not even managed a shot on target.

Four minutes later a great cross from Fellaini across the area almost played in Mata but he was just unable to get to it in time. Then the stadium shouted for a penalty for a foul on Mata but unfortunately he had been flagged offside.

Chris Smalling tried to bring the ball forward and it looked like he could go all the way to the opposition box but in the end his final pass was too strong for Rooney.

Mata was the only booking of the match for United after he was cautioned for a foul on 32 minutes. That the only blight on a terrific performance by the home side.

The third goal came in the 33rd minute as Rooney collected a poor pass from Spurs and took on the defenders by himself and once in the box there was no doubt about the outcome as he slotted the ball into the corner of the net. A great individual goal by a forward totally on top of his game. And what can we say about the celebration, 'knockout'.

36 minutes in and again it was Fellaini who caused mayhem down the left as he whipped the ball in for Rooney who scuffed it slightly. That was almost the fourth goal and great link up play between Fellaini and his captain.

On the stroke of half-time, there was still time for Rooney to try his luck from distance but he fired wide. Good job he missed as I doubt he could better his goal celebration.

This was by far the best 45 minutes played by United all season a half full of inventive play and confidence with all the team on top of their game, especially Rooney and Fellaini.

It's truly refreshing to write positively about the side after their recent disappointments. The hope was that they could continue in the same vain in the second-half. With the type of start made by United, the biggest question was where had this team been hiding all season. Spurs had had no shots on goal that's how impressive United had been.

United started the second half attacking the Stretford End with no changes made by van Gaal.
In the 47th minute Spurs had their first clear attempt on goal by Dembele which was high over the bar.

Rooney was on fire and once again in the 48th minute he tried to nod one down for Fellaini, but the ball deflected back into his path at the edge of the area. He couldn't quite wrap his foot around it and strikes it over. As I have said before if only he had been used up front more often in the season who knows where we would have ended up.

United continued with their tidy passing play from the first half and Spurs hardly got a sniff of the ball and when they did United quickly snuffed it out.

In the 51st minute, Rooney tried yet again to lay off a chance to a colleague this time for Blind but the Dutchman dithered a little and the chance was blocked.

Mason should have done better for Spurs a minute later but pulled his shot well wide of de Gea's goal. In all honesty Spurs never looked like scoring or even troubling David de Gea.

Over the next ten minutes United enjoyed a period of passing practice as they fully controlled the game none more so than in the middle of the park with the trio of Carrick, Herrera and Mata impressing.

On the hour mark, Blind almost played Herrera in on goal with a slide rule pass which was unfortunate not to come off.

Another blistering run by Young down the left wing earned United a corner which came to nothing however, credit to Young as he has shown in recent matches the old magic has returned and he looks like a player who is really enjoying his football.

64 minutes and the crowd witnessed a wonderful cross-field pinpoint pass by Rooney straight to Fellaini that started a move which ended with Herrera firing his shot into the side netting. Another move of precision by the Reds which was a joy to watch.

With fifteen minutes left on the clock United had the ball in the back of the net but the flag was up well before Rooney had tucked it away as Herrera was flagged offside, perhaps wrongly, after a long ball over the top. Shortly after the Spaniard had an effort from distance which flew wide.

After 76 minutes, there was a fully deserved standing ovation for Juan Mata as he left the pitch to be replaced by youngster Pereira. It was fantastic to see the reception given to Mata as he made his way down the touchline and towards the tunnel he really is a fan favourite and he put in a performance that merited the applause. Here's hoping that he doesn't have an injury problem.

The second change came in the 82nd minute when Fellaini was taken off and Falcao was given another opportunity. Fellaini, another player who had played his socks off and opened the scoring with aplomb received the second biggest round of applause of the day.

In the 84th minute captain fantastic Rooney was back clearing the defensive lines as Spurs tried to salvage something from the match.

Van Gaal's third and final change of the match was in the final minutes which saw Rafael come on for the impressive Carrick who had fully earned his early rest.

As the match reached it's climax Harry Kane almost squeezed the ball into the net but David de Gea made an improvised save by sitting on the ball, not his greatest save, but it kept a valuable clean sheet.

Disappointing there were no goals in the second half, but that doesn't take anything away from the great performance by the team with no goals conceded and a huge morale-boosting three points ahead of some tricky matches ahead.

Spurs were really poor in the match but in all fairness they couldn't have expected United to play as well as they did today and I think they were as surprised as anyone by the way the home side came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders. It would seem that the players have an appetite for achievement this season, after all.

Nine to go and if the Red Devils can keep up the momentum from this match then not only a top four but dare I say a top three finish to the season is a definite possibility. But first there is the small matter of a trip to Anfield to take on our bitter rivals Liverpool.

A repeat of today's performance would be invaluable to the team's confidence for the run in and I fully expect a victory especially with Rooney in his current mood.

Thanks for taking the time to read.

Miles Dunton.

What next for United?

Once former United player Danny Welbeck latched onto the terrible back pass by Antonio Valencia and slotted it past David de Gea to knock Man United out of the FA Cup I started to wonder what lay ahead for the team this season and beyond.

Now that our last chance of silverware has gone United are now locked in a fight to finish in the all-important top four of the Premier League to gain a place in the lucrative Champions League, failure to do so would mean yet another season out of the European elite competition and even worse United could qualify to play in the dreaded Europa League every Thursday night.

Let's take stock of our current position, out of both cup competitions and fourth in the league and looking ahead to the remaining Premier League fixtures it doesn't fill me with confidence the way we have been playing with Spurs, City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal still to play it would take another unbeaten run to come through all those fixtures unscathed.

At the beginning of the season, the manager banged on about his 'Philosophy' which I'm sure like myself most people and the players are still trying to get their heads around. What exactly was his plan and what formation suits the team better because I really believe he doesn't know himself.

Since August, we have witnessed differing setups including his favoured 3-5-2 but more recently he reverted back to the fans favourite 4-4-2. Neither of which have been played with any confidence by the team and the lack of attacking play, which we have been used to down the years and I'm not only talking about the Fergie era, has lacked any conviction and flair.

The manager doesn't seem to know what his best starting eleven is and has changed the line-up too frequently leaving players to sit on the bench for long periods of time. It started with Januzaj then Herrera and now it's Mata's turn to wonder what they have to do to play regularly.

Januzaj's position I can understand as he is still in the learning curve but Herrera and Mata are experienced players that would walk into other sides, and maybe they will in the summer.

Another point about the manager is the way he comes over in the press conferences. Alex Ferguson was a master of manipulating the press and enjoyed total control in the meetings, even though that riled the journalists he still had their respect. The problem with LvG is that he comes over as a stubborn individual who has a total disrespect for the press and treats their questions as a personal attack on himself.

Louis van Gaal was a very animated figure at the World Cup high fiving Robin van Persie but in the United dugout he is the complete opposite, he honestly looks bored. At Old Trafford, I understand it's a long way to the touchline from his seat but even so!

He has said that his relationship with the assistant manager Ryan Giggs is as good as ever, but I'm not so sure. I would like to hear more from Giggs on how he feels things are going.

Van Gaal has spoken of his distaste of back passing but obviously forgot to relay that message onto his defenders as so often this season we have conceded unnecessary goals or given more work to de Gea by playing the ball around at the back.

Speaking of the defenders they have been woeful this season and even the die hard fans, like myself, must be truly disappointed by the performances of the back line, Evans and Jones have to take the brunt of the blame and Smalling has had his moments of uncertainty.

In Blackett and McNair, we have two defenders for the future but you could see how quickly their confidence fell by playing alongside supposedly more experienced players.

When you see the players and manager in training or enjoying themselves out and about at various functions, including this week's Cheltenham Race Meeting, the team spirit can't be faulted but once they walk onto the pitch that all so important togetherness seems to disappear.

A lot of that is down to the captain but when Rooney was stuck in the midfield he found it hard to increase his own level of play let alone the others. Eventually, van Gaal saw sense and put Rooney back up front where he belongs, imagine how different the season could have been if Rooney had been used as a striker and banging in the goals instead of being wasted in the middle.

The six summer signings that gave all the supporters such optimism haven't really delivered on the promise mainly due to injury and lack of form. The biggest disappointments being the two big name deals Radamel Falcao and Angel di Maria.

Falcao is just not the same player he once was following his knee injury and Di Maria's confidence is at an all time low especially after his red card against Arsenal. It will take all of LvG's experience to dig Di Maria out of his hole.

Ander Herrera had been left out of the side for weeks then enjoyed a return to the starting team putting in some sterling performances and chipping in with the goals. The other signings,  Blind, Rojo and Shaw haven't let the side down too much but have missed crucial games due to various serious injuries.

Ashley Young has come back after his own injury layoff stronger and along with Fellaini has at least improved on last season. Fellaini has at last started to repay the money that Moyes spent on him but again he is another player being used out of position. In the defeat against Arsenal he played up front and the team began banging long balls up field with the hope that he could use his height advantage. That is not the United way and proved we missed the scoring talents of Robin van Persie.

There is no doubt about the player of the season David de Gea. From the very first match he has performed at a level that is way above his team mates and has become a world class keeper and with Real Madrid circling he needs to be tied down to a new contract sooner rather than later as later could be too late. On many occasions, the Spaniard has saved the points for United as the last line of defence. In the run of unbeaten games, it wasn't the goals that gave us the points it was his saves.

Through varying mistakes by the manager and players, we find ourselves once again unsure how the season will finish. Having said that I am a big fan of the manager, if not of some of his decisions, and believe the club can bounce back and will indeed make the last four but not without some more twists and turns before May.

However, come the end of the season I as many others, expect an overhaul of the team. Let's get rid off the players who are quite clearly not up to scratch and get really stuck into the transfer market for quality players with experience starting with the defence. If not, even if we do qualify for the Champions League with the current squad we could be out of it in the group stage.

In summary, in the last two months of the season I would like to see the players really lift their game and get that top four finish at any costs and for the manager to prove that he indeed is the best man for the job.

I'm sure in the end all will be well but it's how we are getting there that hurts.

Miles Dunton.