Manchester United Match Reports

Below are Manchester United Match Reports from all Premier League, Champions League, World Club Championship, F.A. Cup, League Cup games for the whole of the 2008-2009 season.

F.A. Premier League Anfield, Sat 13 September 2008
LIVERPOOL Brown o.g (26), Babel (77)	2
MANCHESTER UNITED Tevez (3)	1
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		5
W. Brown		6
R. Ferdinand		7
N. Vidic		6
P. Evra		6
M. Carrick		5
Anderson		5
P. Scholes		4
C. Tevez		6
W. Rooney		6
D. Berbatov		6
Subs: R. Giggs (5) O. Hargreaves (5) L. Nani (5)
Match Stats
	Stats
54%	Possession	46%
15	Shots	5
7	On Target	2
5	Corners	4
10	Fouls	18
0	Y. Cards	2
0	R. Cards	1
25	tackles	18
76%	Passing	70%

This first of three massive games within the space of a week for Manchester United started off really brightly, but ended in disaster after Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez ended his baron run of games against the champions.

The match started off well and United were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty in the first minute of the game when Dimitar Berbatov's goal bound shot cannoned of a Liverpool defender's arm, but how many referees would have the bottle to have awarded it?

A minute later Manchester United got the breakthrough when a delightful exchange of passes by Scholes and Anderson put Dimitar Berbatov into space on the Liverpool right, the big Bulgarian swiveled and played a precision pass which disected the box and on hand was Carlos Tevez to cooly smash the ball passed Pepe Reina's despairing dive.

For the next 15 minutes United controlled the game and looked like scoring on every attack they mounted, with the new man Berbatov showing some delightful touches. However, things were about to go down hill for the reds a mix up between goalkeeper Van Der Sar and Wes Brown ended with ball ricocheting of the startled defender and into the back of the net.

From there on in the Anfield faithful got behind their team, with the players responding in equal amount of vigour. The Liverpool players seemed to be lifted by a goot 25% and for pretty much the rest of the game harried and hustled United's players who's lightweight midfield failed to cope with pressure which was being exerted.

Just as it looked like Manchester United had weathered the storm a defensive calamity by the the usually rock solid Ryan Giggs led to Dirk Kuyt dispossessing the Welshman and picking out the unmarked Ryan Babel who's mis-hit short slammed into the Anfiled turf and flew into the back of the United net. And to add insult to injury a careless challenge by Nemanja Vidic earned the imposing centre back a second yellow card to the delight of the Liverpool fans.

Many pundits and fans - before the game - were musing on how Sir Alex Ferguson would accomadate Tevez, Rooney and Berbatov in the same team. Well the answer was to play Rooney wide left, Tevez wide right and the Bulgarian through the middle. Did it work? It's probably too arly to tell, but what's for certain is that It will take a good few weeks for Ferguson to work out a system which will get the best out of all three front men, but I'm sure he'll have fun while he comes to his conclusions.

UEFA Champions League (Group E) Old Trafford, Wed 17 September 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED	0
VILLARREAL CF	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		6
G. Neville		7
R. Ferdinand		7
J. Evans		6
P. Evra		7
J.S. Park		7
D. Fletcher		7
O. Hargreaves		6
L. Nani		7
W. Rooney		7
C. Tevez		6
Subs: Anderson (6) C. Ronaldo (7) R. Giggs (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
57%	Possession	43%
20	Shots	5
5	On Target	1
5	Corners	0
14	Fouls	15
1	Y. Cards	3
0	R. Cards	0
23	tackles	19
467	Passes	323
82%	Accuracy	87%

A frustrating game for all involved with Manchester United, but the good news was, the match did signal the long awaited return of Manchester United's modern day prodigal son, Cristiano Ronaldo, from ankle surgery.

The match itself was dominated form start to finish by The Reds who were unlucky not to be awarded a penalty - in a one sided first half - when J.S. Park appeared to be upended in the box on two seperate occasions, only for the German referee to wave away United's frantic protests.

Arguably United's best effort on goal in the first period came from Carlos Tevez's 25 yard dipping drive which was smartly saved by his countryman between the Villarreal sticks.

The Spanish visitors started the second half brightly, as their belief began to grow, and were unlucky not to go ahead when Argentinian born, Mexican international Guille Franco saw his delightul flick come back off the post after a wonderful sweeping move down United's left. At this point Sir Alex Ferguson had seen enough and summoned Portuguese winger Ronaldo back from his warm-up. The Reds top scorer from last season replaced the industrious Park, to a rapturous round of applause from the Old Trafford faithful - who had waited just over an hour for their idol to make an appearance. And as little as ten minutes after coming on he almost netted for The Reds, when he rose to head Nani's superb cross - but unfortunately he flashed the effort wide of the far post.

The substitution seemed to spark the Manchester United team into life, as they hit the Spaniards with wave, after wave of attacks, but they just couldn't find their much deserved breakthrough goal, coming closest to ending the deadlock when youngster Johnny Evans' stooping header cannoned back off the post late on.

Although Manchester United failed to get the win they deserved the positives they could take from the game were the return of Cristiano Ronaldo to the fold and the numerous amount of chances which were created.

Villareal were pretty poor tonight, but should be a far different proposition back on Spanish soil.

F.A. Premier League Stamford Bridge, Sun 21 September 2008
CHELSEA Kalou (80)	1
MANCHESTER UNITED Park (18)	1
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		5
G. Neville		6
R. Ferdinand		7
J. Evans		7
P. Evra		8
O. Hargreaves		6
P. Scholes		6
D. Fletcher		7
J.S. Park		8
W. Rooney		5
D. Berbatov		5
Subs: T. Kuszczak (6) C. Ronaldo (7) J. O'Shea (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
60%	Possession	40%
16	Shots	10
7	On Target	4
7	Corners	4
18	Fouls	22
1	Y. Cards	7
0	R. Cards	0
10	tackles	18
81%	Passing	68%

A satisfactory day at the office for Manchester United, but strangely the result felt like a loss for The Reds, after they led for two thirds of the match.

As with the Liverpool match 8 days earlier United started the match really brightly and deservedly took the lead when JI-Sung Park netted his first goal of the season when Petr Cech failed to hold onto Dimitar Berbatov's right foot shoot. The goal for United seemed to spring the home team into life and they went close to equalising through Joe Cole and Nicolas Anelka.

At the other end The Reds had a couple of opportunities to double their lead, but a lack of composure and sloppy passing saw these squandered. As the game wore on United looked like they would hold out and end Chelsea's four and a half year 84 game unbeaten home run, but when Wayne Rooney needlessly fouled Ashley Cole - with 10 minutes remaining you - could sense the inevitable, and from the resulting free-kick Chelsea substitute Solomon Kalou rose unmarked to head the ball home. That was it, all square at The Bridge, and with arguably two of United's hardest games of the season done and dusted, The Reds should go from strength, to strength.

One of the biggest talking points though was the performance of referee Mike Riley who booked seven of United's players in an over zealous display of officiousness. All but one of the cards he handed out were deserved, yet it's Ferguson's boys who will cop the £25,000 fine. Does that seem fair?

Although Man Utd failed to hold on to their lead the performance had improved out of sight when compared to their drab showing at Anfield last weekend, and with this in mind you can't help but get the feeling that somebody is about to be on the receiving end of a good old fashioned United hammering, perhaps the unsuspecting recipitants will be Bolton Wanderers next week.

League Cup 3rd Round Old Trafford, Tue 23 September 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Ronaldo (24) Giggs (79) Nani (90)	3
MIDDLESBOROUGH Johnson (55)	1
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
B. Amos		6
R. Da Silva		7
W. Brown		7
N. Vidic		8
J. O'Shea		6
Anderson		8
R. Possebon		8
C. Ronaldo		8
R. Giggs		8
L. Nani		8
D. Welbeck		7
Subs: C. Tevez (6) D. Gibson (7) G. Manucho (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
59%	Possession	41%
22	Shots	10
13	On Target	4
3	Corners	2
12	Fouls	7
0	Y. Cards	1
0	R. Cards	1
16	tackles	22
78%	Passing	68%

A good game was overshadowed by a disgraceful tackle by Middlesborough's so called "hardman" Emanual Pogatetz on young Brazilian midfielder Rodrigo Possebon, who along with Ben Amos, Danny Welbeck and countryman Rafael Da Silva were making their Manchester United debuts.

In a match played in good spirits the 65th minute two-footed lunge by the Austrian defender was so far out of context that it somehow seemed as though the player had spent the game - up until that point - on a different planet. Thankfuly an x-ray has allayed the player's fears over a possible broken leg, but knee ligament damage cannot be ruled out at this point.

Back to the game, United took the lead when Ryan Gigg's 25th minute corner was headed in by Cristiano Ronaldo who out muscled Boro defender Mohammed Shawky to net his first of the season. It seemed like the want away Portuguese winger had never been absent.

After many chances for Manchester United to double their lead it was the visitors who scored the second goal of the game when Adam Johnson's twenty yard defelected shot evaded The Reds' debutant keeper Ben Amos. Just 10 minutes later came that "horrendous" tackle which Alex Ferguson described as something he "didn't want to see again" after viewing it before a Sky Sports interview. It was a sad end to the evening for a player who had an outstanding game and clearly has a bright future ahead of him, the way the player glides around the pitch and hits ferocious long range shots with both feet reminds me of a young Paul Scholes.

United had to wait until the 79th minute to add to their lead when Boro substitute Chris Riggott slipped to allow veteran Giggs a clear run and goal; the Welshman went on to beat the goalkeeper with a delightfully cheeky chip. Five minutes later, The Reds captain for the night was replaced by Angolan frontman Manucho, who at 6ft 3ins looks like he's goin' to be a real handful - he's obviously good in the air, quick and has a powerful left foot strike.

Manchester United's impressive performance was capped off when Nani latched on to Wheater's poor backpass, the winger swiftly rounded the goalkeeper to slot the ball into the welcoming goal. On this evidence United seem to have an extremely bright future with all of the club's youngsters - who took part in the game - impressing to various degrees.

F.A. Premier League Old Trafford, Sat 27 September 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Ronaldo (60) Rooney (77)	2
BOLTON	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		6
G. Neville		7
R. Ferdinand		7
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		8
Anderson		7
C. Ronaldo		8
D. Fletcher		8
J.S. Park		6
C. Tevez		6
D. Berbatov		7
Subs: P. Scholes (6) W. Rooney (7) L. Nani (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
75%	Possession	25%
23	Shots	6
13	On Target	2
16	Corners	4
9	Fouls	9
0	Y. Cards	3
0	R. Cards	0
20	Tackles	30
70%	Success	63%
90%	Passing	65%

A controversial penalty awarded by referee Rob Styles helped send Manchester United on their way to a comfortable victory over Lancashire rivals Bolton Wanderers, this afternoon at Old Trafford. The talking point came in the 60th minute when Jlloyd Samuel's perfectly timed tackle on Ronaldo was adjudged to be a foul by the man in the middle, who swiftly pointed to the spot. The Portuguese winger gingerly got to his feet and appologetically sent the ball straight down the middle to give the champions a much deserved lead, although a bit fortuitously.

In a scrappy first half Manchester United came close to taking the lead through Ronaldo, Anderson and then Ferdinand but it was the visitors who were closest to breaking the deadlock when Fabrice Muamba missed a glaring chance from six yards out after a superb overlapping run and cross by Bolton's Icelandic right-back Gretar Steinsson.

During the half-time interval Alex Ferguson must have dug out the infamous hairdryer and used it to full effect, because The Reds were a completely different team in the second half. They started the period brightly and almost took the lead when Ronaldo's turn and shot evaded the dive of Jussi Jääskeläinen in the Bolton goal and bounced off the upright.

Just a few minutes later United did find the net through that harshly given penalty. Although many will argue that The Reds got lucky once again, through yet another penalty awarded at Old Trafford the same people should realise that because Manchester United attack the opposition penalty area at pace - especially at home - a lot more than the average team they tend to be fouled more often, resulting in more penalties being awarded. In fact if you view the stats, you'll probably find than United have more than their fair share of penalties turned down, by referees who want to be seen as strong in the eyes of the public; ironically bowing to the masses is surely a sign of weakness.

After taking the lead the players seemed to relax and for the last third of the game played some stunning football. The move of the match came in the 77th minute when Patrice Evra's superb diving header set Rooney into space down Bolton's right, who in turn fed the overlapping Ronaldo, who whilst running at speed into the opposition penalty area superbly backheeled the ball back to Rooney. The striker - without even touching the ball - sent Kevin Nolan into row x via a stunning body swerve and cooly curled the ball into the far corner of the goal. Surely a contender for goal of the month.

After much huffing and puffing today at Old Trafford Manchester United pulled off a comfortable victory over a spirited Bolton side. The Reds seem to be getting back to their free flowing best and will be looking to carry the momentum forward into the up coming games against Aalborg and Blackburn Rovers.

UEFA Champions League Energi Nord Arena, Tue 30 September 2008
AALBORG	0
MANCHESTER UNITED Rooney (22) Berbatov (55), (79)	3
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		6
Rafael		8
R. Ferdinand		7
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		7
C. Ronaldo		8
P. Scholes		5
J. O'Shea		6
L. Nani		7
W. Rooney		8
D. Berbatov		8
Subs: R. Giggs (7) C. Tevez (6) W. Brown (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
40%	Possession	60%
12	Shots	27
1	On Target	10
4	Corners	10
10	Fouls	11
2	Y. Cards	1
0	R. Cards	0
12	Tackles	14
306	Passes	488
89%	Accuracy	89%

A comfortable victory for Manchester United which was somewhat overshadowed by injuries to Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney who both limped out of the game through knee and ankle injuries respectively.

The Reds started the game well and really should've taken the lead in the 6th minute when Berbatov air kicked the ball three yards out after a mistake by the Zaza in the Aalborg goal. Two minuted later Rio Ferdniand nearly netted his first goal of the season his volley was superbly saved after a Nani corner.

In the 16th minute Paul Scholes was stretchered off the pitch after a cynical tackle by Aalborg skipper Augustinussen. The carrot topped midfielder was replaced by Ryan Giggs who took little time to settle into the rhythm of the game and just six minutes later threaded a superb ball into the path of Wayne Rooney, who cooly slotted home to give United a lead.

United's second came courtesy of a defensive howler by Aalborg defender Augustinussen who's dodgy clearence ballooned up into the air and was gleefully volleyed home by the rather embarrassed looking Berbatov, who recorded his first Manchester United goal in the process.

From this point it was not a matter of, if The Reds would score another, but how many more they would get. However after a number of wasted opportunites by Tevez, Ronaldo and Berbatov they would have to settle for the one more goal. Which was superbly taken on a flying half volley by Bulgarian hitman, Berbatov, after some superb wing play by Cristiano Ronaldo on the United right.

A nice victory for Manchester United who took the European experience they've gained over the last three years and used it to record a calm and collective win. The most impressive thing about the game was The Reds barely had to get out of second gear to score three goals without reply.

F.A. Premier League Ewood Park, Sat 04 October 2008
BLACKBURN	0
MANCHESTER UNITED Brown (30) Rooney (63)	2
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		7
W. Brown		7
R. Ferdinand		7
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		7
Anderson		8
C. Ronaldo		7
D. Fletcher		7
R. Giggs		7
W. Rooney		8
D. Berbatov		8
Subs: C. Tevez (7) J. O'Shea (6) J.S. Park (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
38%	Possession	62%
5	Shots	12
2	On Target	4
3	Corners	4
9	Fouls	12
2	Y. Cards	1
0	R. Cards	0
25	Tackles	16
68%	Success	85%
75%	Passing	84%

The talking point in this match should've been a fantastic away win for Manchester United; only the second to come at Ewood Park in 10 years for The Reds. Unfortunately this is not the case, as a supposed failiure by referee Steve Bennet to award a free-kick to Blackburn keeper Jason Brown after he was bumped by Nemanja Vidic just seconds before his namesake Wes Brown nodded the ball home for United's opener.

Admitedly Blackburn did have a point, but slow motion replays show striker Santa Cruz clearly push The Reds Serbian defender into the hapless Jason Brown; so perhaps the goal was their own doing?

Before the talking point United dominated and were unlucky not to take the lead through Nemanja Vidic who couldn't quite convert Ryan Gigg's deflected corner, with the goal gaping he managed to get a hip on the ball, when he probably would've had more luck using his head.

A few minutes later a slick move down Rover's left, put Berbatov into space, the Bulgarian's fizzing cross was met with equal venom by Giggs, whose firm drive was finely saved by the Brown. United began to click into gear and from the resulting shortcorner Wes Brown netted only his fourth goal for The Reds, when he capitalised on the goalkeeping error.

After the goal Blackburn rarley threatened Edwin Van Der Sar's goal and it was United who nearly got the second goal of the game when Rooney was sent clear only for his fantastic lob went agonisingly over the bar.

15 minutes later Rooney would have the last laugh, when Wes Brown sent the galloping Ronaldo racing down his right wing berth, the Portuguese winger showed his class by picking out Rooney on the edge of the box, who Charlton-esque sent a fierce reverse shot into the roof of the Blackburn net. If you squinted you would not be able to tell the difference between Sir Bobby's European Cup final goal of '68 and Rooney's of 2008, the goal was extremely fitting as United were sporting a blue kit which was commissioned to honour the club's first European triumph.

As the game came to its conclusion United were unlucky not to add to their lead through Berbatov, Ronaldo and then substitute Carlos Tevez, with the Argentinian coming closest after seeing his superb drive smashing against a post.

In the end a much deserved win for United, who although have not gotten off to to the best off starts have beaten two teams in Blackburn and Portsmouth (away from home) where they have traditionally struggled.

Hopefuly Manchester United will be able to pick up where they have left off, with the the impending two week international break upon us.

F.A. Premier League Old Trafford, Sat 18 October 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Rooney (56), Ronaldo (69), Berbatov (72), Nani (90)	4
W.B.A.	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		7
R.Da Silva		8
R. Ferdinand		8
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		8
J.S. Park		7
D. Fletcher		8
R. Giggs		8
C. Ronaldo		7
W. Rooney		9
D. Berbatov		8
Subs: G. Neville (7) J. O’Shea(6) L. Nani (7)
Match Stats
	Stats
56%	Possession	44%
23	Shots	6
9	On Target	2
16	Corners	1
14	Fouls	11
0	Y. Cards	1
0	R. Cards	0
12	tackles	26
82%	Passing	85%

Four second half strikes from Rooney, Ronaldo, Berbatov and Nani saw off the threat of West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford this afternoon.

Manchester United were kept at bay by the battling Baggies, and in particular goalkeeper Scot Carson who was in magnificent form. The shot stopper almost single handedly kept the score level for almost an hour before the equally impressive Wayne Rooney finally beat his chief tormentor with a powerfully struck reverse shot, after he had jinked past a couple of defenders.

Next, Rooney became provider when he picked up the ball from midfielder Darren Fletcher and quickly dissected the Midlanders defence with a superb pass. The grateful recipient was Cristiano Ronaldo, who barely had break stride before beating Carson with a low drive.

Just two minutes later new boy, Dimitar Berbatov scored his third goal for United in as many games when he showed lightening reflexes to prod the ball Ole Gunnar Solskjaer style into the roof of the net, after Nani’s cross shot was deflected by Jonas Olsson.

A commanding second half performance for The Reds was rounded of in stoppage time when substitute, Nani scored a breakaway goal after being set up by man-of-the-match Wayne Rooney.

A pretty straight forward win in the end. But the match will probably be best remembered by the magnificent performance by Wayne Rooney who showed the kind of form that saw him being touted as the Paul Gascoigne.

It seems Manchester United are on a roll now and let’s hope it continues for the rest of the season.

UEFA Champions League Old Trafford, Tue 21 October 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Berbatov (30,51), Rooney (76)	3
CELTIC	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		7
G. Neville		7
R. Ferdinand		7
J. Evans		8
J. O’Shea		6
L. Nani		6
D. Fletcher		8
Anderson		7
C. Ronaldo		7
W. Rooney		9
D. Berbatov		9
Subs: W. Brown (6) J.S. Park (6) C. Tevez (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
66%	Possession	34%
23	Shots	7
6	On Target	2
12	Corners	5
17	Fouls	13
0	Y. Cards	2
0	R. Cards	0
15	tackles	20
86%	Passing	84%

Manchester United left their Scottosh counterparts trailing in their wake in tonight's UEFA Champions League game at Old Trafford. The match, which was dubbed "The Battle Britain" was so one sided that if it were a boxing match the referee would've stopped it, to stop them from receiving any more punsihment.

Celtic will no doubt argue about the two offside goals, which were awarded to Manchester United, but what they can't argue is that The Reds thoroughly deseved their victory.

United's first goal was scored by Bulgarian Dimitar Berbatov, who cleverly flicked the ball under the diving Artur Boruc from, on offside position.

The Reds second goal also came courtesy of the striker. This time goalkeeper Artur Boruc failed to hold onto a rapier like 30 yard free-kick from winger Cristiano Ronaldo. The ball came back off the hapless Pole into the path of the grateful Berbatov who thumped the ball home. The Bulgarian hitman looked to be offside, but the goal was given, much to the annoyance of the Celtic bench.

The second half started just as the first had ended, with Manchester United making plenty of chances, In the 57th minute Wayne Rooney looked to have added a third when he went through on goal and calmly slotted the ball past the keeper. The, referees assistant - who I'll be surprised to see officiate in a Champions League game again - got the decision hoplessly wrong, perhaps he felt sorry for the Glasgow club. Who know's?

As The Reds searched for a third the ball fell to that man Wayne Rooney who turned and shot from 20 yards to put the result beyond doubt.

The Reds were so dominant tonight and were so breathtaking that Celtic manager Gordon Strachan commented that this Manchester United performance - against his side - was the best he had witnessed during his time at the Glasgow giants. That is high praise indeed when you take into account they have played Barcelona and A.C. Milan in recent times.

F.A. Premier League Goodison Park, Sat 25 October 2008
EVERTON Fellaini (64)	1
MANCHESTER UNITED Fletcher (21)	1
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		6
W. Brown		6
R. Ferdinand		6
N. Vidic		6
P. Evra		6
R. Giggs		7
D. Fletcher		7
J.S. Park		6
C. Ronaldo		7
W. Rooney		5
D. Berbatov		6
Subs: Anderson (6) C. Tevez (6) L. Nani (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
40%	Possession	60%
17	Shots	20
3	On Target	6
6	Corners	10
19	Fouls	13
3	Y. Cards	3
0	R. Cards	0
28	tackles	18
75%	Passing	80%

Somebody once said that football was a game of two halfs and on this evidence they weren't for from the truth. The first half was dominated by Manchester United's pace, skill and cutting edge; the second by the host's passion, doggedness and determination. All in all, on reflection a fair result.

United started like a house on fire and went close to breaking the deadlock through efforts by Ronaldo, Rooney and Fletcher. In fac,t it was Fletcher who indeed put The Reds ahead when he linked up superbly with Ryan Giggs, before slotting the ball under former United stopper Tim Howard.

As soon as the first goal went in United sensed Everton were about to capitulate and as a result went on a rampage to try and get a second or maybe even a third, before half time. First Leon Osman cleared a Nemanja Vidic effort off the line, and not to be outdone by his team mate Tim Howard saved superbly from Ronaldo and then Giggs to keep the deficit at just one goal.

A few minuted later Vidic clumsily fouled former Red Louis Saha and from the resulting free-kick, shots from Yakubu and Pienaar were superbly blocked by the United defence.

Down at the other end weaving run and chipped pass by Welsh winger Ryan Giggs set up Wayne Rooney, who should have done better with a glancing header which finished the wrong side of the post.

Half-time came and I don't know what David Moyes said to his side during the interval, but he definately earned his corn. The home side seemed to be rattled by something and got stuck in to United big style. The Reds were just not at the races and Everton got an undeserved equaliser when Belgian youngster Marouane Fellaini soared above the United defence to head the ball past the despairing dive of Edwin Van Der Sar - at this point Everton hadn't really troubled United's goal.

A minute later a mistake by Ferdinand gave Everton's Nigerian striker Yakubu a free on goal, but his effort was superbly saved onto the post by Van Der Sar.

Just a few minuted later, Wayne Rooney, with the help of the Goodison Park faithful was booked for a challenge on Arteta. He replied to the guaranteed jeering by the home fans by kissing his Manchester United badge and sarcasticly waving at his abusers. This move prompted Alex Ferguson to save Rooney from himself and promptly replaced him with Portuguese winger Nani.

With time running out Cristiano Ronaldo had a glorious opportunity to get a winner, when the ball fell to him unmarked in the Everton box, but he rushed the chance and the ball bobbled wide of the post.

Probably a fair result in reflection, but United were left kicking themselves for squandering their chances and not making the most of their huge possession figures.

F.A. Premier League Old Trafford, Wed 29 October 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Ronaldo (14, 30)	2
WEST HAM UNITED	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
T. Kuszczak		7
R. Da Silva		8
R. Ferdinand		7
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		8
L. Nani		7
D. Fletcher		8
Anderson		8
C. Ronaldo		8
C. Tevez		6
D. Berbatov		9
Subs: G. Neville (6) W. Rooney (6) M. Carrick (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
58%	Possession	42%
22	Shots	6
9	On Target	2
3	Corners	1
15	Fouls	11
1	Y. Cards	2
0	R. Cards	0
13	tackles	21
84%	Passing	75%

Before Manchester United took on their London rivals Cristiano Ronaldo picked up the World Player of the Year and Golden Boot awards on the pitch, then within 30 minutes showed the world what all the fuss was about by bagging himself a beautiful brace.

The Reds started the game in supreme style and in the 14th minute Cristiano Ronaldo got his first of the game when Anderson found Nani on the left wing, who in turn found his countryman with a low cross. The 42 goal hero - from last season - swiveled and smashed a first time effort past Robert Green between the visitor's sticks.

United were flying and the brand of football they conjured up in the first 30 minutes, was probably the best I have seen in my 25 years of watching The Reds; they simply tore their rivals apart.However they would have to wait another 16 minutes before Ronaldo netted his second.

As the ball was played down West Ham's right, it looked as though Hammer's defender James Collins would successfuly usher the ball out of play, for a goal kick, but he didn't reckon with the genious of Dimitar Berbatov. The big Bulgarian pulled off a pirouette that a Bolshoi ballerina would've been proud off. He amazingly kept the ball in play and calmly found Ronaldo two yards out, who couldn't miss.

As the game wore on United took their foot more and more of the pedal, much to the annoyance of Sir Alex Ferguson. The Reds boss declared "I wanted us to add more goals because that could be important at the end of the season. But we took our foot off the pedal and played a couple of gears below what we were capable of. We were too relaxed for me.”

Although United had won with supreme ease, the Old Trafford faithful should've bore witness to a 6 or 7-0 victory, such was the level of dominance of The Reds. You still get the feeling that Fergies fighters are about to Hammer a team by a cricket score in the near future.

F.A. Premier League Old Trafford, Sat 1 November 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Ronaldo (3, 44) Carrick (27) Vidic (56)	4
HULL CITY Cousin (22) Mendy (69) Geovani (pen) (82)	3
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		7
G. Neville		6
R. Ferdinand		6
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		6
L. Nani		6
M. Carrick		7
Anderson		7
C. Ronaldo		8
W. Rooney		7
D. Berbatov		8
Subs: R. Giggs (6) C. Tevez (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
53%	Possession	47%
22	Shots	12
9	On Target	7
9	Corners	1
13	Fouls	12
2	Y. Cards	2
0	R. Cards	0
14	tackles	29
90%	Passing	86%

A game which Manchester United should've have won by a cricket score ended up being turned on it's head by a combination of poor refereeing, sloppy defending and a never say die attitude by the plucky visitors.

In a vibrant first half display The Reds took an early lead, when Ronaldo played a superb one two with Dimitar Berbatov before he smashed a low drive in off the post from 18 yards. The Reds continued to press and superb bit of ball juggling by Berbatov set Nani free down United's left, but his cross was superbly headed clear by Hull defender Kamil Zayatte as Ronaldo was ready to net his second of the game.

Next, Wayne Rooney fired a fizziing drive inches over the opposition's crossbar as United threatened to steamroller the visitors. However, it was they who indeed got the next goal, when Andy Dawson's free-kick was headed in by ex-Glasgow Rangers frontman Daniel Cousin.

Parity was not restored for long. Just six minutes later, Berbatov released Michael Carrick, who advanced with the ball as the Hull City's defenders backed off. He got all the way to the edge of the box before he hit a sweet shot of the Boaz Myhill's left upright into the back of the net.

Before Ronaldo made it 3-1 on 44 with a deflected header from Nani's corner,Wayne Rooney had the ball in the net, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside.

As the second half commenced United continued their dominance and both Ronaldo and Berbatov should've scored but both dragged their shots wide. It was therefore up to defender Namanja Vidic to show his strikers how to do it by volleying home Rooney's corner.

At 4-1 United relaxed too much as Bernard Mendy beat Evra to the ball with a brave header, before lofting the ball over the outcoming Van Der Sar to make 4-2.

15 minutes later as Hull grew in confidence that man, Mendy was dubioulsy fouled by Rio Ferdinand in the United penalty area. The referee quickly pointed to spot and Brazilian Geovani - against all odds - put the visitors back in the game.

The Reds were rattled, but managed to hold on for a 4-3 victory.

UEFA Champions League Celtic Park, Wed 5 November 2008
CELTIC MacDonald (13)	1
MANCHESTER UNITED Giggs (84)	1
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
B. Foster		6
R. Da Silva		5
R. Ferdinand		6
N. Vidic		7
J O'Shea		6
L. Nani		5
M. Carrick		7
D. Fletcher		7
C. Ronaldo		7
C. Tevez		7
R. Giggs		7
Subs: D. Berbatov (7) P. Evra (6) W. Rooney (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
27%	Possession	73%
6	Shots	30
3	On Target	7
4	Corners	13
5	Fouls	14
0	Y. Cards	1
0	R. Cards	0
26	tackles	13
84%	Passing	88%

A late header by Manchester United captain, Ryan Giggs gave the European Champions a deserved share of the spoils at Celtic Park.

The home side took a shock lead in the 13th minute when Australian born striker Scott MacDonald sent the mighty Hoops supporters wild by sublimely lobbing the ball over United keeper Ben Foster into the back of the welcoming net.

After the goal Manchester United kept the Glasgow giants penned in their own half for most of the first half, their only real respite came from the impressive Shaun Maloney, who gave The Reds young right-back, Rafael Da Silva a tough time on more than one occassion.

Despite United's dominance,dogged defending frustrated them as they failed to carve out a real clear cut opportunity for lone striker Carlos Tevez.

At half-time Sir Alex Ferguson obvioulsy felt the need to add more creativity and guile to the Manchester United ranks, so on came £30m striker Dimitar Berbatov. His introduction seemed to add more urgency to The Reds play, as they peppered the Celtic goal with no less than 22 shots during the second half.

It was one of those 22 efforts which led to the Manchester United equaliser. on 84 minutes the persevering Cristiano Ronaldo hit a dipping, swerving thunderbolt from 30 yards. The ball moved so much in the air, that all that Celtic goalkeeper Artur Boruc could do was palm the ball into the path of the grateful Ryan Giggs, who gleefuly nodded the ball into the gaping net.

After the goal Manchester United continued to press ans should've won the game in stoppage time when the ball fell to Dimitar Berbatov less th an six yards out. The big Bulgarian turned and scuffed his shot wide, when it seemed easier to score.

Perhaps on reflextion Celtic deserved their point and would now be looking to United to beat Villareal and Aalborg in their final two group games, in order to put qualification to the Champions League knock-out stages into Bhoys own hands.

F.A. Premier League Emirates Stadium, Sat 8 November 2008
ARSENAL Nasri (23, 48)	2
MANCHESTER UNITED Da Silva (89)	1
Match Performance:

League Cup Old Trafford, Tue 11 November 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Tevez (pen 75)	1
QPR	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
T. Kuszczak		6
R. Da Silva		6
G. Neville		6
J. Evans		6
J O'Shea		6
J.S. Park		5
D. Gibson		6
Anderson		7
R. Possebon		5
L. Nani		5
C. Tevez		8
Subs: D. Welbeck (7) N. Vidic (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
60%	Possession	40%
24	Shots	2
12	On Target	0
15	Corners	13
7	Fouls	9
0	Y. Cards	0
0	R. Cards	0

A frustrating night at Old Trafford, as a determined QPR kept United at bay until the 75th minute, when Carlos Tevez converted a penalty, after young striker Danny Welbeck was felled in the box.

Amazingly Manchester United have now taken 78 shots at goal in their last three games, but have only managed to find the net the same number of times. This may be of some concern to manager Sir Alex Ferguson, but he will be pleased the The Reds are continuing to create so many chances.

Back to the game, United fielded a number of youngsters in tonight's encounter and each impressed in his own way. But some of them will have to work harder if they are to stay at the club, as they should've been god enough to brush QPR aside much more easier than they did.

The main thing is United are through to the 1/4 finals of the league cup and will be looking forward to hopefuly getting a home tie in Saturday morning's draw.

F.A. Premier League Old Trafford, Sat 15 November 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Ronaldo (3, 89) Carrick (45) Berbatov (49) Welbeck (84)	5
STOKE CITY	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		6
O'Shea		7
J. Evans		8
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		8
J.S. Park		7
M. Carrick		8
D. Fletcher		8
C. Ronaldo		8
C. Tevez		7
D.Berbatov		9
Subs: D. Gibson (6) G. Manucho (6) Welbeck (8)
Match Stats
	Stats
68%	Possession	32%
22	Shots	2
12	On Target	0
3	Corners	0
16	Fouls	5
1	Y. Cards	2
0	R. Cards	0
23	tackles	16
84%	Passing	84%

As well as seeing Manchester United's best performance of the season so far, the Old Trafford faithful saw two goal hero Cristiano Ronaldo upstaged by 17 year old striker Danny Welbeck, who scored a 30 yard screamer on his Reds debut.

The match started off the same way as the Hull City game two weeks earlier, only this time Manchester United didn't let their opponents of the hook and duly put them to the sword. Cristiano Ronaldo gave The Reds an early lead when he smashed home a fizzing 30 yard free kick after Stoke's Abdoulaye Faye brought down Carlos Tevez. This early goal seemed to burst the Potters' bubble and the only time they threatened Edwin Van Der Sar thereafter was when the big Dutchman had to palm away Nemanja Vidic's misguided header from a Rory Delap long throw.

United steadily began to press for a second, without really getting into third gear and they finally got their award when the impressive Michael Carrick thumped the ball past Stoke's goalkeeper to give The Red's a handy lead at the break.

Manchester United started the second half with greater purpose and immediatley after the interval Carlos Tevez played in Bulgarian hitman Dimitar Berbatov, but the skillful striker was crowded out by the Stoke defence. However, United's number nine would not be denied for long, just 3 minutes later, Tevez put him through again and this time he got his shot away, which evaded Thomas Sorensen, to give The Red a much deserved third.

Later Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo went close for United, and such was The Red's dominance Sir Alex Ferguson was able to bring on youngsters Darron Gibson, Danny Welbeck and Angolan man mountain Manucho.

In the 84th minute, the footballing world was given a glimpse of Manchester United's future when Danny Welbeck picked up the ball just inside his own half, he played a slick one-two with Manucho; before smashing the ball into the top corner from 30 yards. Those in the know at Old Trafford would not have been surprised with the impact made by Welbeck, as he is considered by his many admirers at Carrington as the most technically gifted United player to have come through the ranks since Paul Scholes introduced himself to the football world, when scoring twice against Port Vale in a League Cup tie 15 years earlier.

That man Cristiano Ronaldo completed the rout when he curled a low free-kick past Thomas Sorenson.

The game would be remembred for the emergence of Danny Welbeck, at 17 he has the world at his feet. When interviewed by MUTV - after the game - he was asked if he had always dreamt about scoring a goal at Old Trafford, his answer showed how wet behind the ears the young Mancunian really was; he replied with a huge grin "I've not dreamt about it, but I think about it all the time".

F.A. Premier League Villa Park, Sat 22 November 2008
ASTON VILLA		0
MANCHESTER UNITED	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		7
O'Shea		7
R. Ferdinand		7
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		7
J.S. Park		7
M. Carrick		7
R. Giggs		6
C. Ronaldo		6
C. Tevez		6
W. Rooney		6
Subs: L. Nani (6) Anderson (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
33%	Possession	67%
10	Shots	12
4	On Target	2
3	Corners	6
15	Fouls	11
1	Y. Cards	0
0	R. Cards	0
38	tackles	16
77%	Passing	90%

A frustrating day at the office as Manchester United were denied victory by a tenacious Aston Villa side on this cold winter's evening. Although The Reds dominated in possession and passed the ball supremely well they were only afforded a handful of chances.

It is clear to see, if Manchester United want to retain their League title they need to improve their away form after taking just eight points from a possible twenty-one. However, on the positive note the Reds are still in touch with leaders Chelsea and Liverpool and have already played them both away from home, as well as other tough away fixtures such as this one, Blackburn Rovers, Everton and Arsenal.

On the 14th minute United had their first shot on target when Brad Friedel palmed away Cristiano Ronaldo's fierce strike, a few moments later Nigel Rio-Coker repaid the compliment when his shot was saved by Edwin Van Der Sar in the United goal.

The first half was pretty much like the evening's weather, drab and cold, however United did create a couple of decent chances when firstly, Wayne Rooney put Ji Sung Park through on goal with a superb pass. With only the goalkeeper to beat the South Korean international dawdled on the ball and was superbly tackeled by Ashley Young.

A few minutes later Rooney sent a superb cross into the Villa box, but unfortunately it fell to the less than prolific Park who failed to convert the great chance.

The chances in the second half were few and far between, with Ashley Young going close for the home side and Michael Carrick for United.

Overall a fair results for both sides, but with Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool all dropping points, Manchester United will see this as a missed opportunity, especially when taking into account The Reds superb record - at Villa Park - over the years.

UEFA Champions League EL Madridgal, Tue 25 November 2008
VILLAREAL	0
MANCHESTER UNITED	0
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
R. Kuszczak		6
O'Shea		6
J. Evans		7
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		7
L. Nani		6
M. Carrick		7
Anderson		7
D. Fletcher		8
C. Ronaldo		7
W. Rooney		7
Subs: D. Gibson (6) J. S. Park (6) C. Tevez (8)
Match Stats
	Stats
43%	Possession	57%
5	Shots	13
2	On Target	8
5	Corners	4
22	Fouls	10
3	Y. Cards	2
1	R. Cards	0
18	tackles	15
80%	Passing	82%

After the three previous encounters between these two sides had ended 0-0 and with both teams guaranteed qualification if the match ended as a draw and Celtic failed to beat Aalborg, then a betting man would've opted for the same score and doubled his money.

It was clear from the start of the game the the Spaniards - who were lying second in the Primera - were satisfied with playing for the draw, as they were content with letting Manchester United come on to them.

Manchester United's best opportunity of the game came via the right boot of Cristiano Ronaldo, whose viscious drive was superbly tipped onto the crossbar by Villareal keeper Diego Lopez. The same man denied Wayne Rooney, Darren Fletcher and Anderson as The Reds pressed for a victory, which would see then qualify for the knock-out stages of the Champions League in top spot. At the other end Villareal rarely threatened the Manchester United goal, as they sat deep and played with a loan striker up front.

The biggest talikng point of the game came win Joan Capdevila was dismissed late in the second half for a lunge on Cristiano Ronaldo. Although it was red card, the Portuguese star rolling around on the ground as though he'd been caught in a bear trap didn't adhere him to the home crowd and youb got the feeling the game could've boiled over at any point.

After the red card incident United kept the home side penned in their own half, but could'nt find the breakthorugh and had to settle for a share of the spoils. A victory over Aalborg at Old Trafford in their final group game, will see United qualify for the knockout stage of the Champions League in top spot.

F.A. Premier League Eastlands, Sun 30 November 2008
MANCHESTER CITY		0
MANCHESTER UNITED W. Rooney (42)	1
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
E. Van Der Sar		7
R. Da Silva		8
R. Ferdinand		7
N. Vidic		7
P. Evra		7
J.S. Park		7
M. Carrick		8
D. Fletcher		7
C. Ronaldo		6
D. Berbatov		6
W. Rooney		9
Subs: J. O'Shea (6) R. Giggs (5)
Match Stats
	Stats
46%	Possession	54%
9	Shots	14
1	On Target	6
3	Corners	8
15	Fouls	16
2	Y. Cards	4
0	R. Cards	1
40	tackles	20
81%	Passing	81%

A well deserved away victory for Manchester United at Eastlands this afternoon. However, the game will probably be remembred for the performance or rather the lack of performance by referee Howard Webb, who controversially sent off Cristiano Ronaldo for a second bookable offence for handball, much to the delight of the City fans.

The talking point came after the Portuguese winger was given a yellow card after being deemed to have fouled Shaun Wright-Phillips 20 minutes earlier. As The Reds were attacking a corner Ronaldo jumped unmarked and was destined to score, but for some reason attempted to catch the ball instead off heading it into the empty net. The referee who was being urged to give the United star a second yellow card by the City fans and players, duly bowed to the pressure and sent Ronaldo off. Many (apart from SKY Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp) thought the man in black made the wrong decission, as the player hadn't broken any of the two rules regarding the receipt of a yellow card and handball. The rules clearly state that a player will be booked for this crime if they handle the ball to prevent an opponent from gaining possession - he was unmarked so didn't break this one; and to try and score - he was not guilty of breaking this rule either as he pushed the ball in the direction it was coming from (back towards the corner taker) and besides he was better placed to score with his head.

Although the player now misses the League cup 1/4 final tie against Blackburn Rovers, Manchester United will be more than satisfied with the outcome of today's game, especially after main title rivals Liverpool and Chelsea failed to win their matches. This means The Reds are five points adrift of Chelsea and six points of Liverpool in the Premier League, with a game in hand and having played all four of their bitterest rivals away from home.

United dominated the first half at Eastlands and should've went into the break three or four goals up. However, the breakthrough came a few minutes shy of the break, when tenacious work by Ji Sung Park set up Michael Carrick whose drive was palmed into the path of Wayne Rooney by City Goalkeeper Joe Hart, the Scouse striker gleefully pounced to tap the ball into the gaping net for his 100th career goal.

In the second half Mark Hughes introduced Brazilian playmaker Elano into the fray and City seemed to improve, but they would have to wait until injury time to record their first shot on target, when the ball fell to Blues' captain Richard Dunne, whose half volley - from a City corner - was superbly saved by Edwin Van Der Sar.

In the same move, Joe Hart was left stranded outside the United penalty box from the previous corner and as the ball dropped to Ryan Giggs deep in his own half, the race was on to score, however the Welsh winger opted to pass to Wayne Rooney instead of goin' for goal himself. This decission afforded Joe Hart vital seconds to get back between his sticks, as Rooney's 50 yard effort was superbly palmed around the post by the shot stopper.

As the final whistle blew, you could feel the relief coming from the red three-quarters of Manchester after the two league defeats by their inter-city rivals last season.

League Cup 1/4 final Old Trafford, Wed 3 December 2008
MANCHESTER UNITED Tevez (36, 51, 54, 90) Nani (41)		5
BLACKBURN McCarthy (48, 90) Derbyshire (84)	3
Match Performance:

Manchester United Match Reports

Man Utd Ratings
B. Foster		5
R. Da Silva		8
G. Neville		5
J. Evans		7
J. O'Shea		6
Anderson		9
R. Possebon		8
D. Gibson		6
R. Giggs		8
L. Nani		8
C. Tevez		10
Subs: P. Scholes (7) P. Evra (7) G. Manucho (6)
Match Stats
	Stats
53%	Possession	47%
17	Shots	11
7	On Target	5
7	Corners	7
8	Fouls	15
0	Y. Cards	1
0	R. Cards	1
16	tackles	22
84%	Passing	74%

Forgotten man Carlos Tevez produced a mesmeric dispaly in putting Paul Ince's Blackburn Rovers to the sword in tonights Carling Cup 1/4 final at Old Trafford.

The diminutive Argentinian was head and shoulders above any of the players on display, as he helped himself to four goals and set up Portuguese winger Nani for his second goal of the competition.

After a surprisingly positive start by the visitors - in which Stephen Warnock header was acrobatically saved by The Reds' Ben Foster - it was Manchester United who went closest to opening the scoring through Darron Gibson's looping header, which was cleared of the line after it had evaded the despairing dive of Paul Robinson in the Blackburn goal.

On the 36th minute United took a well deserved lead, when Ryan Giggs' teasing free-kick was headed in at the far post by Carlos Tevez. The Reds increased their lead five minutes later when Nani powered the ball past Paul Robinson, after a superb one two with man-of-the-match, Tevez.

At the break Paul Ince introduced Benni McCarthy to the game and within three minutes of the restart he put the visitors back in the tie with a thumping half-volley after he stole the ball from United captain Gary Neville.

Unfortunately for Rovers Carlos Tevez was in an unforgiving mood, just two minutes later he was bundled over in the box by Dutch defender Andre Ooijer. Referee Alan Wiley immediately pointed to the spot and the Argentinian calmly sent Paul Robinson the wrong way.

The game was as good as over 6 minutes later when Tevez grabbed his hat-trick, after playing a sublime double one-two with the fantastic Anderson, before tapping the ball into the empty net. The Brazilian starlet controlled the midfield tonight and unselfishly passed on the opportunity to score his first goal for Manchester United, by giving his Argentinian team mate the opportunity to take the match ball home with him; and who said Brazilians and Argentines don't like each other?

With 25 minutes left on the clock Sir Alex Ferguson gave the fans a winter warmer when he brought on flame haired playmaker Paul Scholes, after the player had spent two months on the sidelines with a knee ligament injury. It was like he had never been away as he sprayed 50 yard passes all over the field, a timely boost for all connected with this great club.

At 4-1 United were coasting and after a few hair raising moments given to the Old Trafford crowd by goals from McCarthy and Derbyshire, Carlos Tevez sent the crowd into raptures when he smashed home an angled volley from a superb Anderson through ball.

United now await Saturdays semi-final draw, as the bookies have slashed their odds on winning the season's first peice of silverware, to from 5/4 to 4/5.

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