Man Utd vs Benfica

27th September 2005

I had a rare treat this evening. A friend managed to get tickets for a European Champions League match between Manchester United and Benfica, for me and one of my sons.

I have supported Man-Utd for over a quarter of a century (and have lived in Manchester, and have been to Old Trafford many times). In the 70s I went to almost every home game, and a few away games as well, including two cup finals. However, that was the era when clubs like Leeds, then Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, were dominant. Man-Utd regularly underperformed until Alex Ferguson took over in the mid/late 80s and brought the club unprecedented success.

It seemed remarkable, therefore, that fans should boo at the end of the match on Saturday, and that the booing would be seen as being directed against the club's saviour, Alex Ferguson. It is especially remarkable given that their start to the season, so far, has been one of their better ones in the Premiership (they are historically poor starters).

Man Utd "in crisis"?

A football TV pundit was asked yesterday morning whether Manchester United were 'in crisis'. He said, emphatically, that they were. Yet last night the fans sang "Stand up if you love Fergie", and in unison 66,000 supporters rose to their feet.

I think the pundits assessment reflected the short-term view that many reporters take. The "poor run" that Man Utd have suffered from lasted only 2 or 3 games, and results can quickly change.

Nevertheless, there are signs of longer-term concern. Last I thought Man Utd's teamwork could have been mcuh better: they had more skill than Benfica, but the latter had a more determined attitude, worked harder, and better tactics. On paper Man Utd should have won, because they had the better individuals. However, despite the quality of the players, they still need to exhibit excellent teamwork and work hard to win; relying on ability for results could ultimately be their downfall.

Background

BBC Sport:

"Sir Alex Ferguson launched a stinging attack on the media after Manchester United's 2-1 victory Benfica..."