Jan 28 2009
United Thump West Brom
photo: Austin Osuide
Not only did Manchester United completely dominate West Brom in the 5-0 victory for the defending champs, but United did two things no other Premiership club have done before. Manchester United now hold the record for most consecutive clean sheets in the Premiership at 11, and Edwin Van Der Sar broke Petr Cech’s previous record of 1,025 minutes played without conceding a goal. Manchester United appear to have finally found the form that has been missing most of this season.
Yesterday’s match also saw the returns of Wes Brown, Rio Ferdinand, and Park, all of which United had been missing greatly. Park showed the difference he makes at the club with his brilliant wide right attacking runs, and tenacity to fight for the ball in front of goal. While Ferdinand and Brown brought a level headedness that United had been desperately missing in the back four.
With Wayne Rooney set to return soon United are not only at the top of the table, but are also looking more ferocious than ever.
West Brom are a little angry over their treatment in yesterday’s match apparently, as they plan to challenge the straight red card given to club captain Paul Robinson in the first half. But no doubt the FA will not only uphold the card, but maybe even add an additional match to Robinson’s ban, as there can be no question the challenge was extremely dangerous. Ji-Sung Park had clearly won the ball, and Robinson lifted both feet off the ground as he dove straight into Park’s abdomen, knee first.
Dangerous play indeed, and ref Rob Styles had no other choice. However, though I agree with the decision I think Styles brought the red card out a little fast. I mean c’mon, he whipped the card out without even taking a few moments to think about his decision. It was a straight red, but at least double check in your mind first, before sending a player off.
photo: thetelf
And, Joe Kinnear has accepted the probable future that Shay Given won’t be a part of the club for much longer, as the Newcastle keeper has been given permission to hold talks with Manchester City. And City should buy him, as Given is a great keeper, and City desperately need someone to solidify their defence. Newcastle are going to have to scramble to find a replacement though, before the transfer window closes February 2nd.
