Post by deadbat on Aug 27, 2023 19:54:33 GMT
It was a courageous effort from Paul Heckingbottom’s Blades as they were just edged out of it at the death to the European Champions at Bramall Lane. City, as expected, dominated the ball and chances, and missed a first half penalty. However, United were able to keep them out for over an hour until Haaland nodded home after great wing play from Jack Grealish. United made changes and had a go and were rewarded when Bogle drove home. The Blades could not hang on for the point though as Larouci’s naïve defending saw the ball played across and Rodri emphatically smashed home. United can take heart in the performance though as they were competed well and kept a good shape with real resilience and togetherness shown throughout the side. With Oli McBurnie back to fitness, Cameron Archer now confirmed as a Blade and other reinforcements to come, then United can feel better about their chances, despite still not getting a point on the board. City, as they do most games, showed real quality all over the field and at times it was hard for United to get a touch of the ball such was the composure and class of the visitors. In the end they needed a late goal though to take the three points and certainly United had given them a good contest.
Heckingbottom made one change with Osborn in for the injured Larouchi. New signing Archer was paraded pre match but not registered in time and it was the young strike partnership of Osula and Traore starting again. Hamer and Souza made their full home debuts. City were without manager Pep Guardiola and star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones. Bernardo Silva was back in the lineup though with man of the match from the previous game, Phil Foden, dropping to the bench joining former Blade James McAtee.
United kept a good shape early on as City dominated possession but they were unable to test the home side with Egan closely marshalling Haaland and Baldock doing the same on Grealish. They moved the ball across and had full backs Gvardiol and Walker high up the field. Silva was looking threatening on the ball and getting into pockets of space but United were well organised with only a tame header from Haaland straight at Foderingham the only real opportunity. Osborn went down and was struggling and had to go off with Larouci replacing him as the injury problems continued for the Blades.
The ball was in the net when Rodri won the header and Ake finished confidently but the offside flag went up. There was a good chance for City when Haaland managed to outmuscled Egan and play in Alvarez but Foderingham smothered well, after he may have come for the original ball quicker. City were continuing to move the ball around with Traore and Osula feeding off scraps.
Disaster struck for the home side though when Ahmedhodzic and Norwood both missed chances to properly clear and as the cross came in, referee Gillet emphatically pointed to the spot as the ball hit Egan. He ruled the ball had struck the centre backs hand and VAR saw nothing to overturn it. Haaland took the kick but whilst he sent Foderingham the wrong way, his effort came off the post to huge cheers from most inside the ground.
City continued to probe and Rodri had a shot saved before Haaland was well blocked before a few tussles from a series of set plays saw Gillet speaking to several players with the big Norwegian striker at the centre of the altercations. Baldock was cautioned for a poor lunge on Grealish when he was not really going anywhere before a series of fouls went against United to the chagrin of the Blades home crowd. United kept plugging away with Souza and Norwood getting interceptions in before Hamer came out and exchanged passes with Traore but the striker’s final ball was rather telegraphed. City moved the ball about and looked for an opening but they were unable to test Foderingham again before half time.
The second half began as the first half had ended with City just playing keep ball and looking for the chance to move inside the Blades box. Haaland had a great chance but fired wide from Walker’s cross before Rodri did likewise. Grealish was looking to stand Baldock up and United were trying to double up on the City man but it was very much a case of attack v defence as the home side started to tire.
United were continuing to toil and the crowd were appreciative of their efforts – the opposite could be said of their feelings towards the referee who seemed to quickly penalise United players for minimal contact but would let clear pushes against Traore and Osula go unpunished. A booking for the young Danish striker seemed inexplicable when it seemed it was he, that had been fouled. Foderingham was quick off his line to save from Haaland when he got in to beat the offside trap and then Alvarez drove the ball to his near post and the keeper did well to get down and turn it round the post. United were looking at changes but before they could make them, the opener came.
Grealish drove down the left and darted past Baldock before delivering an inviting cross and HAALAND towered above Robinson to nod down and in. It had been coming but it had taken over an hour for the opening goal to arrive. Foderingham went down for treatment at United tried to take some time out to reorganise but it was hard for them to suddenly move up the field.
Haaland was then in on goal and finished past Foderingham but was clearly offside even though was had the usual irritating wait for the flag.
United finally made changes and on came McBurnie and Bogle for Osula and Baldock. The home side finally started to at least keep the ball in the City half with McBurnie making a real difference in this aspect of proceedings. Hamer had a shot blocked after Traore had run the channels and Ahmedhodzic fired wide as Ederson was off his line after punching away a Robinson long throw.
United had not looked like even getting into the City third till the point but at least now were having a go. Alvarez then shot wide at the other end as City looked to finish the game but the game was more of a contest now. United won a corner and McBurnie headed wide as the Kop willed the home side on. Souza was booked for pulling his man back and Foderingham had to push away Alvarez’s free kick. Egan was booked for a soft foul as many of the decisions continued to go against United. Indeed, other than a foul for a free kick on Foderingham, there was only one free kick given for an outfield player when Traore was fouled to ironic cheers from the fans.
Traore continued to try and find space down the left-hand side and Walker took a risk nicking the ball away from him but the former Blades errored soon after as he failed to clear as Souza won the ball from Kovacic, the ball came across and BOGLE in space drilled the ball cooly into the far corner to send the ground into raptures.
Foden came on for Kovacic immediately after and sadly United could not keep parity for long. The ball was moved to the right but Larouci had to deal with the danger but like Walker at the other end, he dithered and Walker nipped in. His cross hit Foden but fell for RODRI who smashed the ball home to restore the City lead and break United hearts.
Despite this, the home side had further chances. McBurnie’s deft chip took out much of the City defence but Ahmedhodzic on the stretch could not quite get enough of it and toed the ball wide. Larouci sprinted forward and tried to make up for his error but got overly excited with men in the box and opted for the shot but blazed well over. City saw out the final stages and got a deserved victory but United had made them sweat right till the end for the victory.
United – We did about as well as we could do I suppose against a super side. When you see City or games against them on the TV, you think why aren’t teams having a go or doing this or that but when you see them live, it becomes apparent how good they are! Every single player is so comfortable in possession. They are patient and just move it around. When the other teams have it, they have athletes and power that means they quickly recover it. The ref was garbage but City are realty so physical in terms of pressing and recovering the ball when they need to – but mostly they do not have to as they just keep it.
United kept a good shape, made minimal errors (without the ball), and got tackles/interceptions in and did what they had to minimise them tearing us apart. We were compact and disciplined. However, for all that and what we did well – City take their chances and they could have scored 6 or 7 goals easily. Wes made 2 or 3 great saves, they had 2 disallowed, hit the post from a penalty and had a fair few others go just wide. That is with United played well from a defensive point of view. You can see why they take teams apart. I thought our players were switched on, did not jump in, and got across and moved around. Souza and Norwood were very good at denying easy balls through and they actually did not create tons first half. The penalty is daft mixed with a bit unlucky but Egan does give away a lot of hand balls. However, Wes only makes maybe one good save and for the most part we denied them clear chances. The other way we had little up front and whilst they fed off scraps, they struggled to keep it when they had it although Traore did better second half. Hamer could not get on the ball as we were of course defending. I felt the wing backs did ok and the whole defence covered gaps although Larouci’s positional sense and awareness looked to be an issue City could exploit. Baldock had done well till a stupid booking. At half time, 0-0 and I was delighted. The penalty miss is big of course but we had not been totally dominated in terms of lots of clear chances. They had loads of balls but were playing a lot of football without really hurting us.
I thought second half was different as we probably tired and they started to penetrate more. Grealish might be annoying and go down a lot (we did kick him a lot!) but he was a real threat and started to get on the ball even more. Haaland missed a good chance and then a few just went wide before Wes made two great saves from Haaland and Alvarez. It was total domination at this point. I was crying out for fresh legs and the front two particularly seemed knackered. Hecky kept looking like he was going to change it but it never happened. Maybe they score anyway but the ball was just coming back constantly and we could not got out of our half for the first 15-20 minutes of the second half and we were really hanging on. Weirdly, a bit like the goals we have conceded so far, it was basic when it came. We seemed to have two on Grealish but neither tried to close him down and he got a lovely cross over and then Haaland overpowers his man. Maybe Robinson could do more but it is hard as he is so big and powerful and has the jump on a defender as he comes onto it.
After this they had another disallowed but McBurnie (and Bogle) made a difference. He helped us hold the ball up and we started to at least get up the field. Hamer had one blocked and then Ahmedhodzic fired wide as we got some long throws into the box too. City at least had to defend a bit and the crowd got involved. City had chances still but finally we started to gave a go. Traore continued to run the channels despite not having much success and we won a few corner that McBurnie headed wide. The goal came as Traore ran down the line again and Souza won a tackle and we kept it alive and the finish was a calm one. The Lane was bouncing and we sensed an unlikely (if undeserved) point. It became a bit frantic but City now upped it again and had a few moments even before they scored. The goal is awful. I felt we could have cleared it long before we did but then it does not seem to be a danger as Larouci just needs to clear the ball but makes an awful mistake. When it comes over, it is miskicked I think by Foden but the finish is fantastic. It was in as soon as it left his foot. We still had chances after this and the Ahmedhodzic one I thought he was going to finish when McBurnie sent a lovely cross over.
In the end, City of course deserved to win and will feel they should have finished it long before the late drama. However, United did what they could to stay in the game in terms of defensive work. If we had tried to attack earlier I am sure we would have got annihilated. There was one moment, Traore lost it when we were on the attack and City were off to the races and we were shouting, ‘Get back!’ They are superb on the counter and superb with patient-controlled possession. It is so hard to stay in games with them and we did that. I am not sure anyone was awful even if most of the good play was off the ball stuff and everyone was decent to ok despite some errors and poor judgements at times. I do understand it as players were tired and then mistakes happen. I do think the two young lads up front struggled for an hour and looked what they are – an inexperienced duo who are learning their game. Traore I think might be a good impact sub as he learns the game but is not strong enough yet and Osula is raw but a way short for me. They tried hard though – as did the rest of the team. McBurnie made a huge difference when he came on and held the ball up. It was incredible what a difference he made. If we can get him and Archer together next week, I think we see a different side. Souza showed what he can do and I felt the defence did alright for large spells of the game. Hamer struggled to get on the ball but worked hard, as did Norwood in terms of doing the little things. Teams are having lots of opportunities against us though (look at the number of shots/chances in three games we have conceded) but as I say today I expected that.
It felt frustrating when we got that big moment and got the goal, to kind of throw it away. They may have got a winner at the end anyway as had a lot of time left with stoppage time but it was avoidable but then as I say they could have scored countless other goals from chances, long before it got back to 1-1. I was pleased with United with a lot of what they did and hopefully with further players to come in (another attacking midfielder and probably another forward. Also, potentially another left back for me – especially if Osborn is out for any length of time) we will be able to compete against several sides.
We knew today would be tough and almost a free hit but the games against Forest and Palace become even more annoying when we gave City a decent go today. Everton is a big game and we need to get something (even a point is not a disaster but we cannot really lose this) as if we lose four on the bounce with tough games to come in the weeks after that then you hope the confidence is not dented too much. Next week is important as if we do lose that then the start had been worse than the one when we did not win till after Xmas a few seasons ago. We have seemingly made some decent signings but Hamer and Archer is effectively Berge and Ndiaye replacements in terms of positions and we are probably worse off – certainly in terms of impact Ndiaye can have. The only other starter is Souza and of course we lost McAtee/Doyle. I do not buy we are stronger now than before the summer. We are not and still I would take the side that came up with the four we lost over who have come in – granted the newcomers are on long contracts. The board have made a right mess of the planning and should have sorted it all out a long time ago regardless of this notion the players asked to go (we just say no until we get replacements in). It is galling I reckon we could have had maybe 1-3 points from the opening two but for really poor planning and lack of foresight from those in charge that left their manager woefully exposed and playing kids.
I will be disappointed if we do not bring in at least 2 more players this week. We have foreign loans to fill as well as two domestic loans and the start we have had (taking away today) shows we are in for a real struggle unless we can improve the side with more quality.
Overall, though taking away us having lost all three games, the efforts today was fine in isolation. The Lane was full and the crowd got behind the side, maybe galvanised by an atrocious referee too, played their part and I suppose despite a lot of the crap that comes with the Premier League (refereeing alluded to) with the pundits and lack of real knowledge of situations for clubs like us, it did feel good to be playing and competing with a juggernaut. The moment when the goal went in, is kind of why you want to be at this level and whilst we lost, we did not get destroyed and far from disgraced ourselves.
Ratings:
Foderingham 8/10 – Thought he was a bit hesitant out a few times first half (offside goal and the one he saved) but he did make a smart save and then second half he was excellent. Handling was very good and made two superb saves from Haaland and then Alvarez. Made a few other saves and had no chance on the goals. I do think ultimately at this level we may need to upgrade but he has been the man of the match in our first two home games. Wonder whether teams/referees will twig to his playacting to allow Hecky/McCall/Lester to have a ‘time out!’ Lester pointed to his head and told him to go down after the goal. Clearly nothing wrong with him.
Baldock 6/10 – Stuck to it against a really touch winger. He always seems to do well v Grealish and thrive on the challenge. Today I felt was one of the first times Grealish has got the better of him though. Started well and felt Grealish offered little early but then a stupid booking (no need) ensure he could not risk poor tackles. The goal he does not get close enough and sends him outside rather than inside where we had no cover. He did ok for long spells but will be annoyed with the goal. Souza even went across and told him where to send hm afterwards!
Osborn NA – Only played 17 minutes and did ok but they did get a few two on ones with Walker and Silva down this side. He pulled up and surprise, surprise another muscle injury for a player. Not sure if it is a long term one but that position is an issue.
Robinson 7/10 – Did ok for spells with some blocks and tackles. He was tight on his man and seemed to enjoy the physical battle with Haaland and others. He did slice a few out and panic and I suppose the goal technically it Haaland who overpowers him but then he is so powerful/big. I think again – like the other goals it needs the cross stopping at source – too many balls just come over with no pressure meaning players can be picked out.
Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – Thought he was better today in terms of at least being much touch tight to his man and able to get his foot in and did a lot of the defensive basics better. I might be wrong but thought he could have kicked the ball away before the penalty. Second half he continued to try and keep his positions but gaps started to appear and I felt Baldock was left exposed quite a bit (not just Anel’s fault). Had one ambitious volley wide but then maybe could have done better on the chance at the end.
Egan 6.5/10 – He was faced with a tough opponent in Haaland and for the most part stuck to his task against maybe the best striker in the world. However, Haaland has scored, put another sitter wide, another saved from Wes and another disallowed. Also hit the post from a pen – that Egan conceded. That seems very critical but at crucial moments he kind of lost him. Thought he played him better in the semifinal. Still, he did some good things and was able to make headers and blocks in the game.
Norwood 6.5/10 – Did what he could in terms of getting his foot in and making interceptions and kept his position. City do not really have midfielders who run from deep (or didn’t today) and Kovacic and Rodri were more probing than running through but he was switched on to deny space and felt the midfield did what they could off the ball. Frustrating when he did have it that he sort of just kicked it away and did not help us keep it. Seems to be panicking more than he used to at this level? As I say did what he had to defensively though with some good blocks/reading of the game.
Sousa 7/10 – My first impression of him (did not see him at Forest) and liked what I saw. He got stuck in and won it and was mobile too. Did tire late on (had bad cramp at full time) and he will get a fair few suspensions but is exactly what we have needed in this area in terms of someone what wins the ball and just keeps it. Today was hard to do the latter as we had no out ball. Needs to get fitter but today will have helped him (and some of the other newcomers) in terms of having to really put a shift in. Decent on the ball and quite quick. He did get turned a few times but the opposition are clearly very good!
Hamer 6.5/10 – Not really in the game on the ball. Had a few moments first half where he linked with Traore but most of the time he was tracking and covering, like the other two above. He continued to work hard and try and pick up what he could but probably frustrated as looked in front and had little options. Neat and tidy at times though and had that one decent shot blocked too. Will see more of him next week I am sure.
Osula 4.5/10 – Thought today was a struggle for him and whilst a few decisions went against him (the booking seemed ridiculous and he got pushed a few times) he did not get into it and the few balls that came his way sort of bounced off him or he did not keep it. Looked like a kid against grown men (which he is!) today and it was a bit of a struggle. Needs a loan probably in the Champ/League One but with the lack of strikers we have – he will probably stay around till January now. Was tough going for him today.
Traore 6.5/10 – Started the game lively but he made some poor choices with the few balls he did have played to him. Worked hard and more of a threat/outlet than Osula. One cross in the first half was our only real attack. As the game closed he had a few tussles from channel balls and lost out physically but kept going and a few moments saw him create bits and pieces – such as the goal. One great bit of control and I loved his attitude to keep going all game. There is something there but he is very small and quite weak and against the better teams will only get scraps but there is some promise in him. Think he might be better at the moment whilst he develops, as an impact sub and we may go with McBurnie and Archer up top in the coming weeks.
Subs –
Larouci 5.5/10 – Thought he did some ok things but looked one of our weaker players in terms of awareness and being switched on. The others were filling gaps or making interceptions but he just seemed to be not quite aware of men around him. Few neat things on the ball and is athletic and can drive forward (one or two decent runs). However, second half I thought he made some sloppy decisions on the ball and then it was woeful on the goal – dreadful error where he just has to get rid. He had an effort to redeem himself but blazed badly over. He looked quite upset at the end as he trooped off. I have seen him a few times now and he does not look quite up to this level (technically and his awareness/reaction times). Maybe he will improve but this level is cut throat and can we afford for him to learn on the job? I feel with RND out and Osborn now also injured, we must try and find a proven player here. If not I would play Trusty or JLT here. I am not going to slate him for the mistake (was annoying after all the hard work to get level) but I am just not sure he is up to it. We have conceded four out of five goals down this side now in terms of mistakes/crosses coming in.
McBurnie 8/10 – Made a huge impact when he came on. Held it up, won headers, played people into play and was a threat. One header wide and then a cross that Anel nearly scored from. He started to move City defenders around and showed good intelligence to keep the ball. We looked like we could cause problems when he came on. Hopefully get some time against Lincoln and start next week versus Everton.
Bogle 7/10 – Came on and of course scored but gave us another attacking threat. He is a good finisher when he gets into those positions. Hope he can get back to the form he had before all those injuries but as he did last time at this level, showed an eye for a finish.
Basham – Kind of just ran around a bit without really touching the ball much. Assume Davies is not fully fit yet – he would have been ideal in this sort of game to come on. Not sure why Hecky keeps doing this. Surely there is no optimism or confidence in Coulibaly if he prefers Basham over him for the close of games in midfield?
Manager: Heckingbottom 7.5/10 – Tactically he kind of got it spot on, much like the semi-final. The low block, packing the midfield and everyone shuffling across to deny space and moments. They had chances but first half not sure they picked us apart too much. We tired second half and I was crying out for him to make some changes but he did not and he said himself in his post-match comments – he wanted to do this (he had called for players to get ready). Thought we were knackered and maybe should have done it 10 mins earlier. The two subs on 70 minutes did change things with McBurnie excellent although the Basham change was baffling again. After the goal I sensed we got a bit excited and maybe just needed a better shape – we seemed all over the place when they scored despite the error but the players were tired. I think he will come out of that game well tactically in terms of how we set up and again with limited forward options, made sure we stayed in the game. We get a draw and it is almost a perfect game plan.
Man City – I thought they were even better today than they were at Wembley against us and today was a closer game in terms of scoreline. They just pass, pass, pass and wait for the opening. Every player from Ederson to Haaland is comfortable on the ball and they never panic (ironically Walker’s overplay cost them the goal). They just move it around and player like Grealish and Silva seem to have it on a string. Even the defenders like Ake are just so composed when they have it. They are a bit of a machine and one goes out and another goes in. Even without De Bruyne and Stones, they still look tons better than anyone else at this level and probably the world. The standards are so high. First half we kept them at arm’s length and they missed the spot kick but after half time they upped it and were penned in for long periods. The only knock was some poor finishing and even though Wes made two saves and good ones, they missed some bad ones too. They had 30 shots but only 9 on target and that is not great really. However, they just keep coming and at times it is wave after wave of attack. They remain patient and you knew the goal was coming. In a weird way I felt more relaxed after they scored as at least then oddly I felt we might then have a go. Course would have preferred them not to score but you felt after the goal they might relax more and so it proved. They had a bit of an odd spell and we had 3 or 4 chances (granted our only ones of the game) but then after the goal, they just go up and score again. They are a fantastic side and not sure anyone gets close to them again this year. I think United have played them pretty well in two games this year and still lost both and been outplayed in both! It is hard to know how to beat them or get results as if we had more of a go as some pundits have alluded to, we would have got hammered. I get people will point to what happened when we did have a go but that could only happen really at the stage it did. They do referee the game a lot (Haaland and Grealish main two) but know they are better so helps them get away with it! Least we only have to play them once more I suppose this year!
Opponent Man of the Match – Walker made an error but he was good outside of this and nice to see him give the crowd applause at the end and his shirt to a United fan. Grealish gets a lot of stick (not sure why he was booed so much though?) from players in terms of challenges and does go down easy but also gets kicked a lot too! He was a real threat all game, particularly second half and what a cross for the goal. He seems to be a bit of a pantomime villain for him hitting the deck of course but apparently he’s a smashing fella off the field (see his embrace of the blind girl in the Super Cup final and some great work he does for charity etc) and he did embrace Baldock (they are good friends off the field apparently?). A player you hate for his moaning and diving if he is an opponent but if he is your player, you would love him and he is a good player to be fair!
Silva was phenomenal to watch with his close control and ball skills (those pirouettes!) and was a real stand out but the two in midfield will not always get the credit but thought they were excellent. Kovacic is a clever pick up who does a bit of everything but my man of the match and the best player for City was Rodri. Not just for his winner but he dominated the game. Huge physically (tall and size outwardly – TV does not do it justice) he ran the game, picking up every loose ball and just moving it on but also ran forward and was an attacking threat. A superb footballer and maybe gets lost amongst the hype of the more eye-catching players further forward.
Opponent Weak link – Can I say Haaland?! Thought Haaland was poor actually as he missed a number of sitters and a penalty but then got the goal and he is so strong and always a threat. Thought Ake had a few poor moments towards the end when we put them under pressure but not sure anyone was a weak link!
Referee/Officials – Jarred Gillett. Absolutely appalling performance. He gave us two fouls all game. TWO. One was for a clear shove on Wes as he punched out and I think the other was a trip on Traore around 15 minutes from the end. He did not give us a single free kick for 75 minutes. This is despite numerous pushes, trips, and fouls that when were the other way – were given. The crowd sang songs about the Premier League being corrupt and it was hard to put up much of an argument. City were miles better. We fouled them a lot more – even Grealish we kicked a fair bit despite him still going down quite easily. Baldock and Souza’s bookings were correct. We did foul a few other times to stop attacks and fouls rightly given. However, he manged to book Egan for a nothing foul and then Osula’s I am still at a loss. Our man gets fouled and then he gives the free kick to Man City and books our man? Maybe he said something about the nonsensical decision but it was so bad I just started laughing. Traore and Osula got pushed a number of times in the back but he just told them to get on with it but then when we did likewise he blew it up. It was so bad it was untrue. I do not think he decided the game or anything like that but his performance was as biased as they come. The penalty he could not wait to give pointing and blowing up with glee and even on our goal, why were they checking that – it was almost like Man City cannot possibly concede. As I say we did commit some niggly fouls but United were also fouled quite a few times but one outfield foul all game. I am not sure I have ever seen a game where that has happened before. We had a big enough task without this muppet but it felt like City had to commit a far worse foul to get penalised than we did. Even when our players went to floor it made no difference (I know there is an argument we need to do that more). It was almost like he had two different rule books depending who was making the foul. I genuinely would be interested to see an assessors’ report on that but they look after their ‘mates’ as Mike Dean admitted this last week. The smug look at he walked off at half time/full time summed him up. He did not want to upset the big boys so ensure that every (EVERY) 50-50 he gave to them from start to finish. Even stoppage time, the ball was out for over a minute, I was totting it up and he played bang on time. He did not want to risk the chance of another possible goal upsetting whatever advantages he gained by reffing the game as he did. The song the ground sung about corruption summed it up completely and is how I felt/feel about this league. The best teams (City are it) will invariably win but they do not need every helping hand they can get (saw it with Man Utd yesterday too).
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Was noisy and City despite their predictable and boring repetitive chants (suppose if we were Champions of England and Europe, we might sing that too a lot!), they made a fair bit of noise too. United fans kept with the team and were supportive of the honesty and efforts. When the goal went in for them, they rallied and the team responded. It was extremely noisy on the goal and you sensed an unlikely result so it was a real shame when City went down and retook the lead almost straight away. Still the fact most of the Lane stayed in to clap them off showed the efforts the team had put in and United fans knew they had given everything to the cause.
Heckingbottom made one change with Osborn in for the injured Larouchi. New signing Archer was paraded pre match but not registered in time and it was the young strike partnership of Osula and Traore starting again. Hamer and Souza made their full home debuts. City were without manager Pep Guardiola and star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones. Bernardo Silva was back in the lineup though with man of the match from the previous game, Phil Foden, dropping to the bench joining former Blade James McAtee.
United kept a good shape early on as City dominated possession but they were unable to test the home side with Egan closely marshalling Haaland and Baldock doing the same on Grealish. They moved the ball across and had full backs Gvardiol and Walker high up the field. Silva was looking threatening on the ball and getting into pockets of space but United were well organised with only a tame header from Haaland straight at Foderingham the only real opportunity. Osborn went down and was struggling and had to go off with Larouci replacing him as the injury problems continued for the Blades.
The ball was in the net when Rodri won the header and Ake finished confidently but the offside flag went up. There was a good chance for City when Haaland managed to outmuscled Egan and play in Alvarez but Foderingham smothered well, after he may have come for the original ball quicker. City were continuing to move the ball around with Traore and Osula feeding off scraps.
Disaster struck for the home side though when Ahmedhodzic and Norwood both missed chances to properly clear and as the cross came in, referee Gillet emphatically pointed to the spot as the ball hit Egan. He ruled the ball had struck the centre backs hand and VAR saw nothing to overturn it. Haaland took the kick but whilst he sent Foderingham the wrong way, his effort came off the post to huge cheers from most inside the ground.
City continued to probe and Rodri had a shot saved before Haaland was well blocked before a few tussles from a series of set plays saw Gillet speaking to several players with the big Norwegian striker at the centre of the altercations. Baldock was cautioned for a poor lunge on Grealish when he was not really going anywhere before a series of fouls went against United to the chagrin of the Blades home crowd. United kept plugging away with Souza and Norwood getting interceptions in before Hamer came out and exchanged passes with Traore but the striker’s final ball was rather telegraphed. City moved the ball about and looked for an opening but they were unable to test Foderingham again before half time.
The second half began as the first half had ended with City just playing keep ball and looking for the chance to move inside the Blades box. Haaland had a great chance but fired wide from Walker’s cross before Rodri did likewise. Grealish was looking to stand Baldock up and United were trying to double up on the City man but it was very much a case of attack v defence as the home side started to tire.
United were continuing to toil and the crowd were appreciative of their efforts – the opposite could be said of their feelings towards the referee who seemed to quickly penalise United players for minimal contact but would let clear pushes against Traore and Osula go unpunished. A booking for the young Danish striker seemed inexplicable when it seemed it was he, that had been fouled. Foderingham was quick off his line to save from Haaland when he got in to beat the offside trap and then Alvarez drove the ball to his near post and the keeper did well to get down and turn it round the post. United were looking at changes but before they could make them, the opener came.
Grealish drove down the left and darted past Baldock before delivering an inviting cross and HAALAND towered above Robinson to nod down and in. It had been coming but it had taken over an hour for the opening goal to arrive. Foderingham went down for treatment at United tried to take some time out to reorganise but it was hard for them to suddenly move up the field.
Haaland was then in on goal and finished past Foderingham but was clearly offside even though was had the usual irritating wait for the flag.
United finally made changes and on came McBurnie and Bogle for Osula and Baldock. The home side finally started to at least keep the ball in the City half with McBurnie making a real difference in this aspect of proceedings. Hamer had a shot blocked after Traore had run the channels and Ahmedhodzic fired wide as Ederson was off his line after punching away a Robinson long throw.
United had not looked like even getting into the City third till the point but at least now were having a go. Alvarez then shot wide at the other end as City looked to finish the game but the game was more of a contest now. United won a corner and McBurnie headed wide as the Kop willed the home side on. Souza was booked for pulling his man back and Foderingham had to push away Alvarez’s free kick. Egan was booked for a soft foul as many of the decisions continued to go against United. Indeed, other than a foul for a free kick on Foderingham, there was only one free kick given for an outfield player when Traore was fouled to ironic cheers from the fans.
Traore continued to try and find space down the left-hand side and Walker took a risk nicking the ball away from him but the former Blades errored soon after as he failed to clear as Souza won the ball from Kovacic, the ball came across and BOGLE in space drilled the ball cooly into the far corner to send the ground into raptures.
Foden came on for Kovacic immediately after and sadly United could not keep parity for long. The ball was moved to the right but Larouci had to deal with the danger but like Walker at the other end, he dithered and Walker nipped in. His cross hit Foden but fell for RODRI who smashed the ball home to restore the City lead and break United hearts.
Despite this, the home side had further chances. McBurnie’s deft chip took out much of the City defence but Ahmedhodzic on the stretch could not quite get enough of it and toed the ball wide. Larouci sprinted forward and tried to make up for his error but got overly excited with men in the box and opted for the shot but blazed well over. City saw out the final stages and got a deserved victory but United had made them sweat right till the end for the victory.
United – We did about as well as we could do I suppose against a super side. When you see City or games against them on the TV, you think why aren’t teams having a go or doing this or that but when you see them live, it becomes apparent how good they are! Every single player is so comfortable in possession. They are patient and just move it around. When the other teams have it, they have athletes and power that means they quickly recover it. The ref was garbage but City are realty so physical in terms of pressing and recovering the ball when they need to – but mostly they do not have to as they just keep it.
United kept a good shape, made minimal errors (without the ball), and got tackles/interceptions in and did what they had to minimise them tearing us apart. We were compact and disciplined. However, for all that and what we did well – City take their chances and they could have scored 6 or 7 goals easily. Wes made 2 or 3 great saves, they had 2 disallowed, hit the post from a penalty and had a fair few others go just wide. That is with United played well from a defensive point of view. You can see why they take teams apart. I thought our players were switched on, did not jump in, and got across and moved around. Souza and Norwood were very good at denying easy balls through and they actually did not create tons first half. The penalty is daft mixed with a bit unlucky but Egan does give away a lot of hand balls. However, Wes only makes maybe one good save and for the most part we denied them clear chances. The other way we had little up front and whilst they fed off scraps, they struggled to keep it when they had it although Traore did better second half. Hamer could not get on the ball as we were of course defending. I felt the wing backs did ok and the whole defence covered gaps although Larouci’s positional sense and awareness looked to be an issue City could exploit. Baldock had done well till a stupid booking. At half time, 0-0 and I was delighted. The penalty miss is big of course but we had not been totally dominated in terms of lots of clear chances. They had loads of balls but were playing a lot of football without really hurting us.
I thought second half was different as we probably tired and they started to penetrate more. Grealish might be annoying and go down a lot (we did kick him a lot!) but he was a real threat and started to get on the ball even more. Haaland missed a good chance and then a few just went wide before Wes made two great saves from Haaland and Alvarez. It was total domination at this point. I was crying out for fresh legs and the front two particularly seemed knackered. Hecky kept looking like he was going to change it but it never happened. Maybe they score anyway but the ball was just coming back constantly and we could not got out of our half for the first 15-20 minutes of the second half and we were really hanging on. Weirdly, a bit like the goals we have conceded so far, it was basic when it came. We seemed to have two on Grealish but neither tried to close him down and he got a lovely cross over and then Haaland overpowers his man. Maybe Robinson could do more but it is hard as he is so big and powerful and has the jump on a defender as he comes onto it.
After this they had another disallowed but McBurnie (and Bogle) made a difference. He helped us hold the ball up and we started to at least get up the field. Hamer had one blocked and then Ahmedhodzic fired wide as we got some long throws into the box too. City at least had to defend a bit and the crowd got involved. City had chances still but finally we started to gave a go. Traore continued to run the channels despite not having much success and we won a few corner that McBurnie headed wide. The goal came as Traore ran down the line again and Souza won a tackle and we kept it alive and the finish was a calm one. The Lane was bouncing and we sensed an unlikely (if undeserved) point. It became a bit frantic but City now upped it again and had a few moments even before they scored. The goal is awful. I felt we could have cleared it long before we did but then it does not seem to be a danger as Larouci just needs to clear the ball but makes an awful mistake. When it comes over, it is miskicked I think by Foden but the finish is fantastic. It was in as soon as it left his foot. We still had chances after this and the Ahmedhodzic one I thought he was going to finish when McBurnie sent a lovely cross over.
In the end, City of course deserved to win and will feel they should have finished it long before the late drama. However, United did what they could to stay in the game in terms of defensive work. If we had tried to attack earlier I am sure we would have got annihilated. There was one moment, Traore lost it when we were on the attack and City were off to the races and we were shouting, ‘Get back!’ They are superb on the counter and superb with patient-controlled possession. It is so hard to stay in games with them and we did that. I am not sure anyone was awful even if most of the good play was off the ball stuff and everyone was decent to ok despite some errors and poor judgements at times. I do understand it as players were tired and then mistakes happen. I do think the two young lads up front struggled for an hour and looked what they are – an inexperienced duo who are learning their game. Traore I think might be a good impact sub as he learns the game but is not strong enough yet and Osula is raw but a way short for me. They tried hard though – as did the rest of the team. McBurnie made a huge difference when he came on and held the ball up. It was incredible what a difference he made. If we can get him and Archer together next week, I think we see a different side. Souza showed what he can do and I felt the defence did alright for large spells of the game. Hamer struggled to get on the ball but worked hard, as did Norwood in terms of doing the little things. Teams are having lots of opportunities against us though (look at the number of shots/chances in three games we have conceded) but as I say today I expected that.
It felt frustrating when we got that big moment and got the goal, to kind of throw it away. They may have got a winner at the end anyway as had a lot of time left with stoppage time but it was avoidable but then as I say they could have scored countless other goals from chances, long before it got back to 1-1. I was pleased with United with a lot of what they did and hopefully with further players to come in (another attacking midfielder and probably another forward. Also, potentially another left back for me – especially if Osborn is out for any length of time) we will be able to compete against several sides.
We knew today would be tough and almost a free hit but the games against Forest and Palace become even more annoying when we gave City a decent go today. Everton is a big game and we need to get something (even a point is not a disaster but we cannot really lose this) as if we lose four on the bounce with tough games to come in the weeks after that then you hope the confidence is not dented too much. Next week is important as if we do lose that then the start had been worse than the one when we did not win till after Xmas a few seasons ago. We have seemingly made some decent signings but Hamer and Archer is effectively Berge and Ndiaye replacements in terms of positions and we are probably worse off – certainly in terms of impact Ndiaye can have. The only other starter is Souza and of course we lost McAtee/Doyle. I do not buy we are stronger now than before the summer. We are not and still I would take the side that came up with the four we lost over who have come in – granted the newcomers are on long contracts. The board have made a right mess of the planning and should have sorted it all out a long time ago regardless of this notion the players asked to go (we just say no until we get replacements in). It is galling I reckon we could have had maybe 1-3 points from the opening two but for really poor planning and lack of foresight from those in charge that left their manager woefully exposed and playing kids.
I will be disappointed if we do not bring in at least 2 more players this week. We have foreign loans to fill as well as two domestic loans and the start we have had (taking away today) shows we are in for a real struggle unless we can improve the side with more quality.
Overall, though taking away us having lost all three games, the efforts today was fine in isolation. The Lane was full and the crowd got behind the side, maybe galvanised by an atrocious referee too, played their part and I suppose despite a lot of the crap that comes with the Premier League (refereeing alluded to) with the pundits and lack of real knowledge of situations for clubs like us, it did feel good to be playing and competing with a juggernaut. The moment when the goal went in, is kind of why you want to be at this level and whilst we lost, we did not get destroyed and far from disgraced ourselves.
Ratings:
Foderingham 8/10 – Thought he was a bit hesitant out a few times first half (offside goal and the one he saved) but he did make a smart save and then second half he was excellent. Handling was very good and made two superb saves from Haaland and then Alvarez. Made a few other saves and had no chance on the goals. I do think ultimately at this level we may need to upgrade but he has been the man of the match in our first two home games. Wonder whether teams/referees will twig to his playacting to allow Hecky/McCall/Lester to have a ‘time out!’ Lester pointed to his head and told him to go down after the goal. Clearly nothing wrong with him.
Baldock 6/10 – Stuck to it against a really touch winger. He always seems to do well v Grealish and thrive on the challenge. Today I felt was one of the first times Grealish has got the better of him though. Started well and felt Grealish offered little early but then a stupid booking (no need) ensure he could not risk poor tackles. The goal he does not get close enough and sends him outside rather than inside where we had no cover. He did ok for long spells but will be annoyed with the goal. Souza even went across and told him where to send hm afterwards!
Osborn NA – Only played 17 minutes and did ok but they did get a few two on ones with Walker and Silva down this side. He pulled up and surprise, surprise another muscle injury for a player. Not sure if it is a long term one but that position is an issue.
Robinson 7/10 – Did ok for spells with some blocks and tackles. He was tight on his man and seemed to enjoy the physical battle with Haaland and others. He did slice a few out and panic and I suppose the goal technically it Haaland who overpowers him but then he is so powerful/big. I think again – like the other goals it needs the cross stopping at source – too many balls just come over with no pressure meaning players can be picked out.
Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – Thought he was better today in terms of at least being much touch tight to his man and able to get his foot in and did a lot of the defensive basics better. I might be wrong but thought he could have kicked the ball away before the penalty. Second half he continued to try and keep his positions but gaps started to appear and I felt Baldock was left exposed quite a bit (not just Anel’s fault). Had one ambitious volley wide but then maybe could have done better on the chance at the end.
Egan 6.5/10 – He was faced with a tough opponent in Haaland and for the most part stuck to his task against maybe the best striker in the world. However, Haaland has scored, put another sitter wide, another saved from Wes and another disallowed. Also hit the post from a pen – that Egan conceded. That seems very critical but at crucial moments he kind of lost him. Thought he played him better in the semifinal. Still, he did some good things and was able to make headers and blocks in the game.
Norwood 6.5/10 – Did what he could in terms of getting his foot in and making interceptions and kept his position. City do not really have midfielders who run from deep (or didn’t today) and Kovacic and Rodri were more probing than running through but he was switched on to deny space and felt the midfield did what they could off the ball. Frustrating when he did have it that he sort of just kicked it away and did not help us keep it. Seems to be panicking more than he used to at this level? As I say did what he had to defensively though with some good blocks/reading of the game.
Sousa 7/10 – My first impression of him (did not see him at Forest) and liked what I saw. He got stuck in and won it and was mobile too. Did tire late on (had bad cramp at full time) and he will get a fair few suspensions but is exactly what we have needed in this area in terms of someone what wins the ball and just keeps it. Today was hard to do the latter as we had no out ball. Needs to get fitter but today will have helped him (and some of the other newcomers) in terms of having to really put a shift in. Decent on the ball and quite quick. He did get turned a few times but the opposition are clearly very good!
Hamer 6.5/10 – Not really in the game on the ball. Had a few moments first half where he linked with Traore but most of the time he was tracking and covering, like the other two above. He continued to work hard and try and pick up what he could but probably frustrated as looked in front and had little options. Neat and tidy at times though and had that one decent shot blocked too. Will see more of him next week I am sure.
Osula 4.5/10 – Thought today was a struggle for him and whilst a few decisions went against him (the booking seemed ridiculous and he got pushed a few times) he did not get into it and the few balls that came his way sort of bounced off him or he did not keep it. Looked like a kid against grown men (which he is!) today and it was a bit of a struggle. Needs a loan probably in the Champ/League One but with the lack of strikers we have – he will probably stay around till January now. Was tough going for him today.
Traore 6.5/10 – Started the game lively but he made some poor choices with the few balls he did have played to him. Worked hard and more of a threat/outlet than Osula. One cross in the first half was our only real attack. As the game closed he had a few tussles from channel balls and lost out physically but kept going and a few moments saw him create bits and pieces – such as the goal. One great bit of control and I loved his attitude to keep going all game. There is something there but he is very small and quite weak and against the better teams will only get scraps but there is some promise in him. Think he might be better at the moment whilst he develops, as an impact sub and we may go with McBurnie and Archer up top in the coming weeks.
Subs –
Larouci 5.5/10 – Thought he did some ok things but looked one of our weaker players in terms of awareness and being switched on. The others were filling gaps or making interceptions but he just seemed to be not quite aware of men around him. Few neat things on the ball and is athletic and can drive forward (one or two decent runs). However, second half I thought he made some sloppy decisions on the ball and then it was woeful on the goal – dreadful error where he just has to get rid. He had an effort to redeem himself but blazed badly over. He looked quite upset at the end as he trooped off. I have seen him a few times now and he does not look quite up to this level (technically and his awareness/reaction times). Maybe he will improve but this level is cut throat and can we afford for him to learn on the job? I feel with RND out and Osborn now also injured, we must try and find a proven player here. If not I would play Trusty or JLT here. I am not going to slate him for the mistake (was annoying after all the hard work to get level) but I am just not sure he is up to it. We have conceded four out of five goals down this side now in terms of mistakes/crosses coming in.
McBurnie 8/10 – Made a huge impact when he came on. Held it up, won headers, played people into play and was a threat. One header wide and then a cross that Anel nearly scored from. He started to move City defenders around and showed good intelligence to keep the ball. We looked like we could cause problems when he came on. Hopefully get some time against Lincoln and start next week versus Everton.
Bogle 7/10 – Came on and of course scored but gave us another attacking threat. He is a good finisher when he gets into those positions. Hope he can get back to the form he had before all those injuries but as he did last time at this level, showed an eye for a finish.
Basham – Kind of just ran around a bit without really touching the ball much. Assume Davies is not fully fit yet – he would have been ideal in this sort of game to come on. Not sure why Hecky keeps doing this. Surely there is no optimism or confidence in Coulibaly if he prefers Basham over him for the close of games in midfield?
Manager: Heckingbottom 7.5/10 – Tactically he kind of got it spot on, much like the semi-final. The low block, packing the midfield and everyone shuffling across to deny space and moments. They had chances but first half not sure they picked us apart too much. We tired second half and I was crying out for him to make some changes but he did not and he said himself in his post-match comments – he wanted to do this (he had called for players to get ready). Thought we were knackered and maybe should have done it 10 mins earlier. The two subs on 70 minutes did change things with McBurnie excellent although the Basham change was baffling again. After the goal I sensed we got a bit excited and maybe just needed a better shape – we seemed all over the place when they scored despite the error but the players were tired. I think he will come out of that game well tactically in terms of how we set up and again with limited forward options, made sure we stayed in the game. We get a draw and it is almost a perfect game plan.
Man City – I thought they were even better today than they were at Wembley against us and today was a closer game in terms of scoreline. They just pass, pass, pass and wait for the opening. Every player from Ederson to Haaland is comfortable on the ball and they never panic (ironically Walker’s overplay cost them the goal). They just move it around and player like Grealish and Silva seem to have it on a string. Even the defenders like Ake are just so composed when they have it. They are a bit of a machine and one goes out and another goes in. Even without De Bruyne and Stones, they still look tons better than anyone else at this level and probably the world. The standards are so high. First half we kept them at arm’s length and they missed the spot kick but after half time they upped it and were penned in for long periods. The only knock was some poor finishing and even though Wes made two saves and good ones, they missed some bad ones too. They had 30 shots but only 9 on target and that is not great really. However, they just keep coming and at times it is wave after wave of attack. They remain patient and you knew the goal was coming. In a weird way I felt more relaxed after they scored as at least then oddly I felt we might then have a go. Course would have preferred them not to score but you felt after the goal they might relax more and so it proved. They had a bit of an odd spell and we had 3 or 4 chances (granted our only ones of the game) but then after the goal, they just go up and score again. They are a fantastic side and not sure anyone gets close to them again this year. I think United have played them pretty well in two games this year and still lost both and been outplayed in both! It is hard to know how to beat them or get results as if we had more of a go as some pundits have alluded to, we would have got hammered. I get people will point to what happened when we did have a go but that could only happen really at the stage it did. They do referee the game a lot (Haaland and Grealish main two) but know they are better so helps them get away with it! Least we only have to play them once more I suppose this year!
Opponent Man of the Match – Walker made an error but he was good outside of this and nice to see him give the crowd applause at the end and his shirt to a United fan. Grealish gets a lot of stick (not sure why he was booed so much though?) from players in terms of challenges and does go down easy but also gets kicked a lot too! He was a real threat all game, particularly second half and what a cross for the goal. He seems to be a bit of a pantomime villain for him hitting the deck of course but apparently he’s a smashing fella off the field (see his embrace of the blind girl in the Super Cup final and some great work he does for charity etc) and he did embrace Baldock (they are good friends off the field apparently?). A player you hate for his moaning and diving if he is an opponent but if he is your player, you would love him and he is a good player to be fair!
Silva was phenomenal to watch with his close control and ball skills (those pirouettes!) and was a real stand out but the two in midfield will not always get the credit but thought they were excellent. Kovacic is a clever pick up who does a bit of everything but my man of the match and the best player for City was Rodri. Not just for his winner but he dominated the game. Huge physically (tall and size outwardly – TV does not do it justice) he ran the game, picking up every loose ball and just moving it on but also ran forward and was an attacking threat. A superb footballer and maybe gets lost amongst the hype of the more eye-catching players further forward.
Opponent Weak link – Can I say Haaland?! Thought Haaland was poor actually as he missed a number of sitters and a penalty but then got the goal and he is so strong and always a threat. Thought Ake had a few poor moments towards the end when we put them under pressure but not sure anyone was a weak link!
Referee/Officials – Jarred Gillett. Absolutely appalling performance. He gave us two fouls all game. TWO. One was for a clear shove on Wes as he punched out and I think the other was a trip on Traore around 15 minutes from the end. He did not give us a single free kick for 75 minutes. This is despite numerous pushes, trips, and fouls that when were the other way – were given. The crowd sang songs about the Premier League being corrupt and it was hard to put up much of an argument. City were miles better. We fouled them a lot more – even Grealish we kicked a fair bit despite him still going down quite easily. Baldock and Souza’s bookings were correct. We did foul a few other times to stop attacks and fouls rightly given. However, he manged to book Egan for a nothing foul and then Osula’s I am still at a loss. Our man gets fouled and then he gives the free kick to Man City and books our man? Maybe he said something about the nonsensical decision but it was so bad I just started laughing. Traore and Osula got pushed a number of times in the back but he just told them to get on with it but then when we did likewise he blew it up. It was so bad it was untrue. I do not think he decided the game or anything like that but his performance was as biased as they come. The penalty he could not wait to give pointing and blowing up with glee and even on our goal, why were they checking that – it was almost like Man City cannot possibly concede. As I say we did commit some niggly fouls but United were also fouled quite a few times but one outfield foul all game. I am not sure I have ever seen a game where that has happened before. We had a big enough task without this muppet but it felt like City had to commit a far worse foul to get penalised than we did. Even when our players went to floor it made no difference (I know there is an argument we need to do that more). It was almost like he had two different rule books depending who was making the foul. I genuinely would be interested to see an assessors’ report on that but they look after their ‘mates’ as Mike Dean admitted this last week. The smug look at he walked off at half time/full time summed him up. He did not want to upset the big boys so ensure that every (EVERY) 50-50 he gave to them from start to finish. Even stoppage time, the ball was out for over a minute, I was totting it up and he played bang on time. He did not want to risk the chance of another possible goal upsetting whatever advantages he gained by reffing the game as he did. The song the ground sung about corruption summed it up completely and is how I felt/feel about this league. The best teams (City are it) will invariably win but they do not need every helping hand they can get (saw it with Man Utd yesterday too).
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Was noisy and City despite their predictable and boring repetitive chants (suppose if we were Champions of England and Europe, we might sing that too a lot!), they made a fair bit of noise too. United fans kept with the team and were supportive of the honesty and efforts. When the goal went in for them, they rallied and the team responded. It was extremely noisy on the goal and you sensed an unlikely result so it was a real shame when City went down and retook the lead almost straight away. Still the fact most of the Lane stayed in to clap them off showed the efforts the team had put in and United fans knew they had given everything to the cause.
