On the 12
th February we will have the 157
th Manchester derby. Over the past couple of seasons city have spent big to close the gap on United to such an extent that this game may bring a reality check to these two teams title ambitions. Win for City would close the gap on their arch rivals to 2 points.
Win on occassions like these are always a huge morale boost to either side. United who had gone on a 29 game unbeaten run came up stuck at wolves and now need to get back to winning ways.
10th Nov 2010,
City Of Manchester Stadium,
Man City 0 - 0 Man United
Their previous meeting this season was a dull goalless affair. With both the teams playing a negative 4-5-1 formation trying to avoid defeat, the game was pretty lackluster.
Key Battles:
Tevez vs Smalling
With Ferdinand out injured, United's defence looked shaky against Wolves as they conceded 2 goals from set pieces. This would be Smalling's first big game and his lack of experience could prove vital.
Tevez who had handed over a transfer request earlier this season has been in terrific form and has at times carried them single handed. He scored three goals against United last year in the Carling cup and would be drooling over the fact of putting one against his former club.
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| Tevez scoring against united in the Carling cup semi final at Eastlands |
Sir Alex always trusts Fletcher in the big games, so expect him to be given the nod tomorrow. Fletcher will use his boundless energy to close down City's midfield and will try to nullify Yaya Toure from getting further up the pitch.
In the reverse fixture Yaya Toure rarely got forward, but I expect him to do so tomorrow. Looking at the way the league is moving, City will have a balanced approach to the game rather than the defensive stance they took earlier this season. Toure desire and drive to get in to the box and add an extra man to the attack would be evident tomorrow.
Tactically employed, I expect them to cancel each other out.
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| Fletcher vs Yaya Toure |
Silva vs Nani
The diminutive Spaniard has been City's creative force this season. He has taken his time to settle down but is now finding his feet in the Premier league. Silva will look to drift inside and exploit the spaces behind United's midfield duo and pull the string in midfield with his clever one twos.
Nani like wise has been United's spark this season and leads the assists charts with 12 assists. Nani blows hot and cold too often - Excellent as well as frustrating moments within a game has made his most admirable fans sigh in despair.
Prediction:Manchester United 1 - 1 Manchester City
It seems crucial for both the teams to win this clash , not just for pride but the title hopes too depend on the result . Its a must win for Manchester United side if they have to meet the realistic target of 84 points set by their manager Sir Alex Ferguson and for Manchester City if they want to stay in the title race .
Whatever the result maybe, let's brace ourselves for some flying tackles come kickoff tomorrow eve!
