Analysis: QPR 0 Manchester United 2

Premier League, Saturday 23^rd February 2013

Manchester United battled to a 2-0 victory against an uninspired QPR side at Loftus Road on Saturday. Rafael opened the scoring with a superb volley before Ryan Giggs finished masterfully late on to secure the three points. The win was hard-fought with plenty of pleasing aspects for United. Below is some brief analysis on the fixture:

A different Nani

Nani was one of United’s most impressive players against QPR with a mature performance. The Portuguese international is oft criticised for a disappointing final ball and poor decision-making, but both were dramatically improved on Saturday. Two examples of a good final ball from Nani were his first half cross that narrowly evaded Javier Hernandez, and his second half reverse-pass assist for Ryan Giggs’ goal. Perhaps more impressive though was Nani’s good choice of pass when around the area.

The 26 year old was initially deployed on the right hand side before a late switch to the left. When on the right he was certainly playing more narrowly than the touchline-hugging Antonio Valencia would, a useful tactic considering the tight pitch at Loftus Road. Nani would cause trouble by coming inside and becoming an extra central player, whilst Rafael made the right side his own with a man of the match performance. Good performances from Nani like in his last two games could see him play even more towards the end of the season, and will hopefully inspire him to sign a new contract.

Experience

Sir Alex Ferguson chose experienced players to face QPR, as United were forced to contend with a compact pitch and potentially intimidating atmosphere. Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic were all included along with fellow experienced players Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick and Robin van Persie. The Red Devils coped with the challenge admirably, and the experienced guard did their job. Ferdinand and Vidic were imperious at the back, with Carrick in front of them providing a good defensive platform. Giggs pushed on further than Carrick in midfield, a strategy that reduces some of United’s possessional control of the game but offers an additional attacking threat. United did the basics well whilst the attacking players produced some spark, and the experience in the side guided the team all the way to another important three points.

Going Forward

United appear relentlessly focused as they hunt down a possible 20^th league title. The experience on show at QPR was a signal of the importance of winning a tough away fixture, whilst some individual performances from the likes of Nani and Rafael were particularly encouraging. The Reds now have a rare weeks rest before a run of four home games as they look to keep marching on.

Ratings

[4-4-2]: De Gea-7, Rafael-9*, Ferdinand-7, Vidic-7, Evra-6, Nani-7, Carrick-7, Giggs-7, Young-7, van Persie-7, Hernandez-7

(Welbeck-7, Rooney-6, Valencia-6)

*Man of the match