United hold off Liverpool fightback
Chris O'Keefe
Manchester United kept up their title charge with a 2-1 win against arch rivals Liverpool, but were made to fight for the victory as the visitors came close to snatching a share of the points.
The Red Devils took the lead midway through the first half as Robin Van Persie reacted quicker than Daniel Agger to Patrice Evra's low cross to turn the ball past Pepe Reina.
The goal was the least the hosts deserved for their first half performance as they controlled possession and asked questions of Liverpool who continue to frailties in defence.
Indeed, but for some scrambling defence, Shinji Kagawa would have doubled that lead. The showing from Liverpool prompted manager Brendan Rodgers to change his team and, seemingly, their formation.
However, hopes of a swift comeback were dealt a blow when Van Persie's free kick was met with an unmarked Patrice Evra whose header was diverted goalwards by Nemanja Vidic - also unchallenged.
Liverpool didn't set up a nervy finish with Daniel Sturridge reacting to a loose ball after Steven Gerrard's low shot was parried by David de Gea and slotted home.
The goal was part of a much improved final half hour as Liverpool gained more possession and attacked United but couldn't find an equaliser.
In truth, Sir Alex Ferguson's charges were better for much of the game and Liverpool struggled in midfield and, consequently in defence, for much of the first hour.
Defending of the second goal left much to be desired and Liverpool have looked weaker defensively and vulnerable to counter attacking since the season began - something that will curtail the club's ambitions for this season if not addressed.
United did enough to win this game. Granted there are similar frailties in the defensive qualities of their midfield but they are winning games despite this.
posted by C O'K @ 6:08 pm
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