Analysis: Fulham 0 Manchester United 1

Premier League, Saturday 2^nd February 2013

Manchester United completed their second victory over Fulham in a week after a late goal from Wayne Rooney secured the points. Despite hitting the woodwork three times, United were under pressure for large parts of the game, and Rooney’s goal will potentially be looked back on as significant in the title race. Here’s some thoughts emanating from the game:

Defensive rocks

United’s backline proved their worth against a Fulham side who kept knocking on the door. Rio Ferdinand was supreme in the air as he won nearly every aerial challenge. David De Gea was confident in goal as he collected several high balls amidst a series of top-drawer saves. Jonny Evans also played a part in United’s victory with a confident and largely composed performance on his return from injury. Sir Alex Ferguson will face a real selection dilemma in defence for United’s tough upcoming fixtures. Nemanja Vidic is sure to feature soon, but dislodging Ferdinand or Evans from their starting berth is no easy task.

A Rooney reminder

Wayne Rooney reminded everyone against Fulham of his importance to Manchester United. The fixtures Rooney missed over the festive period were arguably also those in which Robin van Persie gave his greatest performances. But for those who started to believe van Persie is the main man at Old Trafford, Rooney will have made them think again since his return to the side. Rooney has now started and scored in the last three games, games in which van Persie has not scored or assisted a goal. Van Persie, whilst not at his flying best, is not out of form, and still provides an important clog in United’s attack with his superb movement, touch and set-piece taking. Rooney’s goal against Fulham however was another gentle reminder that van Persie isn’t the only world-class striker at Manchester United.

Going Forward

United have now won two uncomfortable Premier League games on the trot, something that bodes well for tough upcoming games. United’s defensive showings recently have been the most pleasing aspect of their performances, especially considering the defensive weakness shown in the first half of the season. The international break this week may disrupt the side slightly, but big games against Everton and Real Madrid will act as motivators in the coming weeks.

Ratings

[4-4-2]: de Gea-8, Rafael-6, Ferdinand-8*, Evans-8, Evra-7, Valencia-6, Cleverley-6, Carrick-6, Nani-6, Rooney-7, van Persie-6

(Hernandez-6, Giggs-6, Welbeck-6)

*Man of the Match