Ambiance: There was an unmistakeable edge within the air as Mark Hughes’s facet arrived at Previous Trafford, with the 2 sides stage on factors going into the early-season encounter. Somewhat than dreading an upset, the house assist was acclimatising to the brand new sensation of concerning the guests as a sustained menace for honours – embodied greatest by Carlos Tevez, whose earlier begin in M16 had yielded United’s clinching second purpose within the earlier season’s corresponding fixture.
Simply 4 months later, the Argentinian ahead was the poster boy for Metropolis’s new period, offering an absorbing subplot on what would show a fascinating afternoon.
United’s efficiency: Virtually instantly, the champions set about making an announcement, forging forward in simply the second minute when Wayne Rooney calmly slid dwelling from shut vary. Somewhat than lie down, nevertheless, Metropolis fought again – a recurring theme of the afternoon. Gareth Barry pounced to stage after a Ben Foster slip, then Craig Bellamy cancelled out a Darren Fletcher header not as soon as, however twice. The latter got here within the remaining minute after one other defensive blunder and likewise adopted a spate of missed alternatives for the Reds. Time remained, nevertheless, for an all-time basic to swing again United’s means.
