Manchester United took a gigantic step towards the Barclays Premier League title by Everton 1-0 at Old Trafford to move nine points clear in the league standings.
Javier Hernandez scored the lone goal of the match six minutes from time to give United three of the most valuable points they will earn all season.
The young energetic forward scored yet another timely goal for the Reds, but was it enough to earn him Man of the Match honors for United?
E. van der Sar – 6
Virtually a spectator throughout the 90 minutes, van der Sar produced a great fingertip save from Jack Rodwell’s deflected shot.
Fabio – 7
Bombarded down the right wing with conviction, Fabio teamed up well with Valencia and was equally as impressive in defense.
Rio Ferdinand – 6
Given the captain’s armband, Ferdinand used his composure to aplomb, but he did face a nervy second when Victor Anichebe got in behind him.
Jonny Evans – 6
Filling in for Nemanja Vidic, Evans may have surprised some of the supporters by putting in a decent display against the Blues, but he was only up against one center forward throughout.
John O’Shea – 6
The tall versatile defender was not troubled by anything down the left against a much faster Seamus Coleman, but O’Shea limped off during the second half.
Antonio Valencia – 7
Up against Leighton Baines, one of the best left-backs in England, Valencia put in a powerful performance and his cross led to the winning goal.
Darron Gibson – 6
Given a rare start, Gibson had the chance to show that he is more than a one-trick pony, but, unfortunately, his shooting let him down all game long.
Anderson – 7
A much, much better performance than what he produced at St. James’ Park, Anderson showed his value when given the space to operate, but his shooting was woeful.
Nani – 6
Unlucky to not have scored in the first half, but Nani’s performance dipped and was rightfully substituted in the second half.
Wayne Rooney – 8 (Man of the Match)
Showing the ambition that he brought into question, Rooney turned in a match-winning performance and inspired his teammates throughout.
Javier Hernandez – 7
Did wonderfully well to score the winning goal, but Chicharito was dangerous all afternoon with his runs, pace and leaping ability.
Substitutions
Patrice Evra – 6
Given a much needed rest, Evra was called upon to replace O’Shea and he was a constant threat with his trademark runs.
Michael Owen – 6
Made a couple of promising movements in and around the box, and Owen nearly created the opening goal on two separate occasions.
Ryan Giggs – 7
After an uncharacteristic performance against Newcastle United, Giggs’ introduction seemed to have sparked the Reds to grab the late win.
Overall – 8
In derby games against Everton, Manchester United always need that bit of resolve and character to see them off, and both of those attributes shown through in the end at Old Trafford.
Submitted by The United Religion
