On the last day of the 1973/74 season Manchester City defeated United 1-0 on their own home turf, ultimately causing them to be relegated from the top flight. For City fans this was a day of great jubilation, one that would be remembered for a very long time. In recent years things have changed; Manchester United have won a plethora of trophies while Manchester City have fought to stay competitive. On Sunday Manchester City will attempt to duplicate that historic day in 1974, and many people think they have a good shot at doing it.
Backline: When it comes to defense you have to give Manchester United the upper hand. I’m well aware that City hadn’t given up a Premier League goal this season until a tricky Van Persie shot, but nonetheless, Manchester United have one of the most seasoned back lines with Ferdinand and Vidic. Not to mention Blackburn, Wolverhampton, and Portsmouth aren’t exactly the best teams at finishing.
Midfield: United are still the kings of possession, but like most people I agree that they lost the creativity that Cristiano Ronaldo brought to the mix. As for Manchester City I’ve been impressed with what I’ve seen, especially against Arsenal. They know that they have a quick team and their midfield is constantly looking to release the forwards with a through ball. SWP and Stephen Ireland will have to be at their best to counter United. I would like to see Nani and Tosic get some time in the game to add some excitement to the match up.
Forwards: This is going to be an interest match up. I think Rooney has been playing well and as of late it seems as if he’s really taken the team on his shoulders. I expect to see him giving it his all for the entire 90. Rumors say Tevez will be in the Manchester City lineup. However, with all the hype between him and Sir Alex I think Mark Hughes will choose to use him as a substitute. With Adebayor out on suspension the team that was once overflowed with forwards is starting to look a little thin. I liked the way Bellamy played last week and if he can keep being a spark for City then he can create some real problems for the United defense.
My prediction: 1 – 1. Rooney puts one in right before half and then Tevez equalizes in the 80th minute, sprints across the field and slides right in front of Sir Alex. What happens after that will be pure television drama.
Tune in to Setanta Sports at 8:25am ET on Sunday to watch the game LIVE.
The blog looks great Joe. I’ve added you to my blog roll over at CravenCottage.us.
Unfortunately, I’ll miss the Manchester Derby cause I’ll be tuning in to “Setanta Xtra”.