It is their counter attack and set pieces that we have to worry about, nothing else. They wont go toe to toe through the game because we will just pick them off. I am going to make a prediction in how i see them playing this one.
At the kick off they will go attack minded and try and get a very early goal, if they started to sit back straight away the home crowd would not like that one bit and it will just put added pressure on them, and get the united crowd on their backs. If they succeed in getting the goal then maureens plan A will kick in and that is when they will sit deep, and look to counter attack when available or knock it long and draw either a free kick or corner so they can exploit their height advantage.
You saw at the start of the united v arsenal game exactly what united were doing, they were looking to press arsenal asap and get that early goal. The shambolic defending from arsenal allowed them to get 2 goals. The issue with uniteds plan is that we aren't arsenal. We are far more comfortable on the ball and if they do try and use the press to some extent in the first 20 minutes then we definately have the ability and nous to by-pass them with ease. Now in the after match analysis this wasn't mentioned because it being united, and being 1st v 2nd in the next game sky, bt, bbc have to build it up as 2 teams at the very top of the game, which even though i would be biased towards City, cannot be said for united because arsenal had just shown the truth over the previous 90minutes cutting through them like butter.
In the arsenal game what was telling was the ease in which they consistently went through the united midfield and had the back line in all sorts of trouble, and arsenals attacking prowess is not anywhere near the level that we offer. Our attack will have them shifting side to side and as happens with all the opposition they eventually become lethargic and their legs and mental state suffer which results in gaps opening up, even just the slightest gap is a route in because we have the ability in KDB and Silva to thread the eye of a needle.
Even if united did get that early goal, it wouldnt be enough for them because i honestly believe now (as do the team) that we have the ability to equalise and then go and get the winner. That in itself also puts doubt into the opposition with them dealing with wave after wave of attack.
Cant wait for Sunday.
