The scorecard at half time read 1-0, as Manchester United drew first blood on the 30th minute. Wayne Rooney, who seems to be getting into his goal scoring form partnered with Hernandez. Chelsea’s summer signing David Luiz partnered with Terry as Chelsea’s wall of defence. Chelsea started the match on a positive note but as the game progressed Manchester United took control and goal from Rooney, put United in front. Torres who started alongside Anelka was a mere spectator.
Chelsea would have equalized, if not for a brilliant save from the veteran Dutch keeper Van der Sar who managed to keep the ball out. This match was touted as the clash between the “Meanest attack” versus the “Meanest defenCe”. David Luiz made some crucial interceptions to cut off United’s attack. The first half clearly belonged to Manchester United.
Chelsea had to play out of their skin to win the match. Chelsea leveled in the initial stages of second half, after Luiz volleyed home his first goal in the 54th minute. Anelka was substituted, by Drogba who is renowned for his physical presence and predatory goal scoring instincts. Malouda looked tad out off form, was replaced by Zhirkov. Drogba’s presence up front was palpable, as he tormented Vidic.
Controversy is always a key ingredient, when these two teams meet each other and the Moment of controversy was, when Luiz escaped a sending off for his tackle on Rooney. In the 78th minute Zhirkov was brought down by Smalling in the penalty box. Lampard stepped up and netted the ball past Van der Sar with great composure. Manchester United were lucky to be only a goal down as the shot from Zhirkov took deflection off Vidic and hit the post.
To make things worse, Vidic who had already been booked was sent off, for his tackle on Ramires. The crowd erupted after the final whistle was blown. United still are at the top of the table with a 12 point lead over Chelsea. Ancelotti is aware that Chelsea are far from winning the title. David Luiz was unveiled at Stamford Bridge.
