The Barclays Premier League is the best football league in the world, the United- Chelsea game proved that. The lifeless 0-0 scoreline does little to explain what the game consisted of- passion, hunger, intent and entertainment. The latter is something that both sides lacked big time prior to the game, but they proved that in football, anything is actually possible. Who could’ve expected that both United and Chelsea, who had been struggling for form of late, would produce a sparkling game of football, when they needed it the most.
The game was something of an upliftment for United fans, who were largely unsatisfied with Louis van Gaal’s regime but some speculations were laid to rest as United produced a spirited, encouraging performance that did a lot in appeasing the fans.
And here’s how we rate both sides’ players:
David de Gea: 9.5
The Spaniard proved, well and truly as to why he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world right now. Produced a save that oozed elasticity off John Terry early in the game and produced a stunning double save in the second half to deny the Blues from taking the lead.
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Matteo Darmian- 8.5
The Italian had a really solid game at left back. If only his crossing would’ve been better, he could’ve got .5 more. Ran into spaces very well, as Martial drifted in and made consistent overlap runs out wide too.
Chris Smalling- 7.0
Didn’t have much to do as the Chelsea attack looked thoroughly restricted. Stood his ground well enough though.
Daley Blind- 8.o
Was more involved than Smalling in the play and build ups. His passing was intelligent and played a key part in building from the back.
Ashley Young- 8.5
The makeshift full back looked very good at right back. Made many marauding runs into the box threatening the Blues defence. Made two crucial tackles early in the game too.
Morgan Schneiderlin- 8.5
The French dynamo was in beast mode in the first half and his effect subsided after he received a yellow card but put in an impressive performance. Won some crucial balls high up the pitch and proved why he’s a vital cog in United’s wheel.
Bastian Schweinsteiger- 8.0
The German skipper looked sound on the ball, but didn’t do anything out of the box. Got into good positions and always looked to drop into the defensive midfield areas when needed too.
Juan Mata- 8.0
The Spaniard could’ve handed the Red Devils the lead in the 6th minute, when a blistering strike from close range hit the post. Looked bright in the first half, but faded in the second.
Ander Herrera- 8.5
The former Bilbao star was one of the most determined and committed players on the pitch. Was denied by an almost impossible save by Thibaut Courtois in the second half and his work rate stood out.
Anthony Martial- 9.0
The 20-year-old hit the post in the 16th minute and looked the best outfield United player on the pitch. Made a mockery of Ivanovic on the left flank and went past the opposition defenders, always looking to create something.
Wayne Rooney- 9.0
A bright performance by the skipper helped United a lot in delivering an encouraging showing. His hold up was near perfect and his passing was just as impressive. Missed a golden opportunity late in the game to win the game.