Manchester United’s 0-0 draw at home against Watford was somehow unbelievable with the chances created whilst simultaneously being so painfully predictable too.
I’ve been quiet recently at risk of doing the very same and repeating the same thing over and over again too.
Admittedly, the performances themselves have been better and I will always naturally look for the positives. But ultimately at the end of the season there are no rewards for what could have been. Points are the only thing that matter on the Premier League table. So, while finally creating chances and more importantly on target is a much welcomed improvement, we still need to be more clinical and convert them into goals before what could be becomes what wasn’t to be.
Of course there have been challenges to overcome, with a man who used to play for us who I won’t ever name again rightly being immediately removed from the squad and all things United, injuries, perhaps questionable decisions from officials (some things never change) and it’s only fair to mention these factors for balance.
With the world that we live in, some things will always and of course should always be bigger than football. Having said that, football means so much to so many and sometimes is the break from troubles you may need and/or rely on.
That isn’t a guarantee and everlasting support isn’t based on that. It’s just so frustrating to see the potential there and to have those moments crying out to be capitalised on which aren’t utilised.
Ralf made some bold decisions with his starting line up and I respect that massively. While it currently appears he will step into a role behind the scenes at the end of this season as first suggested, he does seem like a man trying to get the best out of his players and bring out a more attacking side. But his job is only half the story and the happy ending is those on the pitch finishing what they started.
Just for one moment though, credit where credit is due. The turnaround and pure grit in the performance away against Leeds was both bonkers and brilliant. Followed by a very respectful 1-1 at Atlético Madrid. And what did these both have in common? Goals from youngster Anthony Elanga. At just 19 years old he has the attitude, the desire and the capabilities to be something rather special. But let’s not forget he will make mistakes on the way forging his career path. The sensationalism can verge on extreme either way. Whether after a positive or negative performance. And I think it’s really important for players to keep a level head and not have too much pressure to soon.
For now all I’ll say is it’s nice to still see youth creep into the first team and grab the opportunity with both hands. The roots of this club never being forgotten. And talking of throwbacks, his rhythm is a dancer chant is glorious. One thing that never fails is the fans support and how it’s executed.
Next up is the small matter of the Manchester Derby at the etihad. Now looking back at the reverse fixture in November, there has definitely been some slow and steady improvement. Whilst on paper it was a 2-0 defeat, in reality it was a performance lacking substance or any threat on our behalf whatsoever. Other than one Ronaldo effort.
Pep Guardiola’s players seemingly moved down the gears during the second half which is me is even worse than defeat. You don’t want your opponents, especially not some of your local rivals, winning so embarrassingly easy without even being at 100%.
So, some revenge on Sunday would be wonderful and maybe just maybe could set the precedent for how we continue from here on until May. It’s these types of games where form should go out the window, pride play such a huge part and where all else is forgotten for 90 minutes or so.
But we can only wait and see. How we turn up, how we start and how we do or don’t sustain it. Admittedly, it isn’t an easy game and not the fixture it once was for us, but several goals and a decent watch would suffice. Some conviction and better decision making in the final third wouldn’t go amiss either.
Football is a simple game. But supporting your club is the most beautiful and sometimes difficult part. And one of few things you will never give up on. Even if it’s the hope that kills you. It’s also what keeps you together. In life too. So roll on whatever may be.
Does it mean what it used to do to the players? I hope so.
And I can think of no more fitting quote or motivation to them other than this little gem from Eric Cantona.
“On derby day in Manchester, the city is cut in two. The blues and the red invade the street. And if your team wins, the city belongs to you.”
[Photo Credit: Manchester United]
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