United won match, but still more to be done

United may have won the match, but a lot more still needs to be done.

As expected, the match between Man United and Arsenal proved to be a potential championship decider. With 6 points clear and 19 ahead in goal difference in the remaining 4 matches (Chelsea still has a game in hand), many concede that United has already bagged the title. However, if Fergie wants to convince Arsenal and Chelsea fans that United are the true and deserved champion, he may have much to ponder on. Certainly, one might argue they don't need to care about the opinions of fans from rival clubs. But if you are a genuine United's follower, you have to guard yourself againts being carried away by winning this match.

Indeed, the first half was almost dominated by Arsenal, with Adebayor and Hleb particularly dangerous. Had they seized one chance, the result may well have changed. On the other side, United only managed to threaten Arsenal with occasional counter-attacks, which were equally penetrating. Rooney was equally wasteful, missing two deadly opportunities. In the second half, Arsenal still controlled the match until the penalty. When Hargreaves scored the magnificent winner, Arsenal's nerves totally broke down.

However, as a United fan, I'm not happy even if we won. Arsenal almost outplayed United in every aspect in the first 60 minutes. Their pass, their attack, their organization, their scoring chances...For quite a while, I was very nervous and frustrated. To tell you the truth, I really have to accept Arsenal are playing more beautiful football--at least in this match, and they are attacking. Yes, you could counter that football match is about 90 minutes and defence is as important. But always putting up a defensive team to wear out your opponent when you play a strong team is not always the answer.

In fact, I was disappointed when I saw the line-up of Fergie's team. As far as I can recall, a two-forward formation has never been provided, playing the other three of the Big Four even at home. And you get the impression that United usually have to struggle before they get something. That's not what football should be: you have to win, and you also have to entertain. Besides, it is masking real problems. For United, better passes and better finishes are really needed. As for passes, compare again with Arsenal. The accuracy of United's passes is not high; as for finishes, the fact that Ronaldo has socred the most goals so far this season really highlights the impotency of the forwards.

It will be hard for United when facing a resurgent Chelsea, if Fergie doesn't change his mindset. Maybe it is true that a conservative mind always accompanies an older age.