What had all the potential to be a true super Sunday over the bank holiday weekend turned out to be not so “super” after all. The build-up for the two games had all football fans exited as it was the Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton which started the bill. One of the biggest derbies in the country if not the world with the two teams battling out to seal the final European spot and qualify for next year’s Europa League campaign. It was also a fixture which has seen more red cards than any other – showing it is always a fiery affair when the two sides meet. That was then followed by Manchester United against Chelsea. Although United already have the league wrapped up, Chelsea had it all to play for if they were to continue to their pursuit of Champions League qualification. It also brought off the field collisions together between two of the world’s best managers and arch rivals Benitez and Ferguson.
Liverpool 0:0 Everton
The derby began with Liverpool fans paying tribute to their opposition by holding up cards in the Kop to read out the word thanks – in response to Everton’s actions over the Hillsborough disaster and seeking justice. Once the football did begin the game was played out in a slow paced manner going against derbies of previous years. Neither side really posed any great threat on goal but were both solid defensively. The second half showed signs of improvement although even that was minimal. Everton did have the ball in the back of the net after Sylvin Distin headed home from a corner but was controversially judged to have fowled Carragher in the process by referee Michael Oliver who disallowed the goal. It was Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard who had the home sides best opportunity who’s darting run seen him get around goalkeeper Tim Howard, however, left himself too much of a tight angle to tuck the ball into the net. 0-0 it finished.
Manchester United 0:1 Chelsea
The four o’clock kick off provided more of the same. United already being crowned champions took an obvious effect on their performance as their players were playing like a side who had nothing to play for. They were also a side who were missing a few first team key players – the most notable absentee was player of the year nominee Michael Carrick. His absence from the heart of United’s midfield was clear for most to see. Chelsea on the other hand were clearly a team in seek of a victory and looked the most likely to take the three points, should anyone of won. However, the game only sprung to life in the final five minutes. The Chelsea attack began after Ramieres tackled Ryan Giggs (who believed he was fouled) deep in the Chelsea half, after a string of passes and link up between Ramieres and Oscar, the ball found itself at Juan Matta. His left footed strike then deflected of Phil Jones to just creep in by bobbling over the line off the far post. Referee Howard Webb was left with no choice in the final minutes after Brazilian team mates David Luis and Rafael collided and Rafael aggressively kicked out at Luis once the ball had gone. There was also a brief coming together between players from both sides after a “card” gesture by Oscar angered the United captain Giggs. The game then finished 0-1 for Chelsea.
