[EPL] Man Utd 5-0 Wigan

[rondwisan]

[EPL] Manchester United vs Wigan Athletic

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/8426/utdwigan.png



[EPL] Man Utd vs Wigan
Kamis, 31 Desember 2009
Kick Off : 03.00 WIB
Venue : Old Trafford Stadium


Manchester United vs Wigan Athletic

United punya catatan bagus nih dengan pertemuan vs the Latics, rekor 100% kemenangan, hayu pertahankan lads, match terakhir di tahun 2009 nih, United harus tetep menjaga peluang untuk mempertahankan Trophy EPL musim ini, sekarang ini Chelsea dah semakin menjauh, dan sebaliknya Arsenal siap2x menyusul di tikungan.

C'mon United, jangan selip lagi yaa ...


Manchester United vs Wigan Athletic, head to head

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa130/bar_1129/2009_2010/manutd_wigan_head.jpg


Wigan Athletic matches result

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa130/bar_1129/2009_2010/wigan_result.jpg

[pweechevalier]

Wah, Opa Ron semangat banget...udah muncul aja nih preview lawan Wigan...
Moga2 diawali dengan mengalahkan Hull di Boxing Day...
Lanjut dengan mengalahkan Wigan, apalagi maen di OT, jangan sampai kalah...
Meski United punya rekor bagus lawan Wigan, tapi tetap waspada...
Jangan sampai kita kesusul Arsenal!!!
Prediksi:
WR10 (1) + DB9 (1) + GO26 (1) vs 0 Wigan

wisnu cimol

[Lucky_Cantona007]

united main di OT di laga terakhir tahun ini.... mari tutup tahun ini dengan hujan gol besar2an.... go red army!!!
:champ:

[B4YU]

silakan kunjungi thread Games yah.......:hajar3:

tebak skor dibuka......:mudance::mudance:

tapi ingat sebelum menebak.... pastikan sudah lunas utk kewajiban di match sebelumnya ....:ngoceh::ngoceh:

dibuka............:peace::peace:

Tebakan III
BPL Pertandingan Ke - 20
Manchester United VS Wigan Athletic

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/8426/utdwigan.png

Man Utd vs Wigan
Kamis, 31 Desember 2009
Kick Off : 03.00 WIB
Venue : Old Trafford Stadium

Daftar Tebakan :
1.

Masukan tebakan paling lambat hari Kamis, 31 Desember 2009, jam 02:00 WIB

[Tomtom]

5-0 lagi dong buat MU.....hehehe
hajar wigan...pertemuan pertama bisa 5-0 walau agak susah di awal...

Obertan mainin dari awal kenapa...agak bosen liat Antonio'mr.right'Valencia....
nganan mulu, nggak bisa ngiri....hehehe

[B4YU]

5-0 lagi dong buat MU.....hehehe
hajar wigan...pertemuan pertama bisa 5-0 walau agak susah di awal...

Obertan mainin dari awal kenapa...agak bosen liat Antonio'mr.right'Valencia....
nganan mulu, nggak bisa ngiri....hehehe

justru utk match ini keknya Valencia harusnya dapt garansi tampil (klo fit)....:D

Nah inilah resikonya jika tetep berharap Giggs jadi starter dan Fletch n Carrick nyetel di tengah pasti yg jadi korban Obe........:D

[GL zone]

ga ada sejarah ny nih united kalah dari wigan

semoga nanti chelsea kalah
jadi united bisa balik ke puncak klasemen

[juliand_fergie]

semoga permainan United makin membaik dgn sembuhnya defender² kita...
meskipun rekor United m'hadapi Wigan selama ini cenderung positif tapi tetep kudu waspada..
tim² semacam ini yg sering bgt nyusahin kita u/ meraih hasil positif..
berharap setidaknya bisa ngeliat PJS main dari awal, karena dia cukup membawa perubahan saat lawan Hull kemarin
Owen harusnya bisa ditandem dgn Rooney di match ini buat gantiin Berba yg tadi mlm biasa² aja keliatannya..
dan Obertan, kapan ni bocah maen full time yaak? moga² SAF mau masang dia dari awal..
buat defender, kayanya susunan kemaren udh cukup padu. Rafael cukup bagus. meskipun body charge nya dia menyebabkan penalti, tapi overall i think he played a nice game..
and last, but not least, ga ada pilihan lain di GK selain TK. dia udh bermain cukup baik dibeberapa match United.. may his good form keep on shining...

[finza_13]

away bisa 5-0......brarti maen home harus 10-0.........X_X

minimal 6-0 laahh......

qiqiqiqiqi.....
:hammer:

[B4YU]

http://www.manutdtalk.com/keanos-big-match-preview-wigan-athletic-h/660/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ManutdtalkBlog+%28Man+Utd+Tal k+Blog%29


Keanos Big Match Preview – Wigan Athletic (H)

The final game of the year is at home to Wigan Athletic. The tradition is a strong run of games in the new year from United, and after the win at Hull last Sunday, lets hope we can continue winning ways in this fixture against a side who either play very well and cause lots of problems for the opposition or simply don’t play at all. It can be hit and miss with Wigan, but the United side with the quality it has will surely be capable of turning over Wigan Athletic.

Last Time Out

Hull gave us one heck of a game, and were denied a good penalty claim, saw two fantastic chances slip by and in the end the scoreline looks comfortable on paper, but there’s more to it then a 3-1 victory for us. Rooney scoring late in the first half settled lots of nerves, but an insane backpass by Rooney led to a penalty giving Hull the equaliser. Rooneys will to make amends for his error showed through and in the end, we deservedly, I think, left the KC Stadium with all three points, but we were made fight bloody hard for them as Hull showed how competitive they can be. Very entertaining game and I’m sure Ferguson and the players will have learnt a lot from the performance. The win also pushed us ahead of Arsenal who had beaten Aston Villa earlier that day.

Our Line Up

—–Kuszczak——————–
Rafael—–Brown——–Vidic—–Evra
Valencia—–Carrick——–Fletcher—–Park
—Rooney——–Owen

The back five were brilliant against Hull I thought. Now with some of the injuries coming back, the defence is shoring itself up. Rafael and Wes Brown were very good and must hold their places for the Wigan encounter.

In midfield, Valencia had a quiet game last time out, but he’ll love to play against his old team and show them what they let go. He’s a sure starter for me. As for the rest, I’d imagine Giggs will step out of this one, and since Park came on for the Welshman against Hull, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Korean started this fixture. Carrick and Fletcher maybe the two in the middle, but you have to remember Anderson and Scholes are two names that want to get a game. Perhaps one of them will play instead of Carrick?

Upfront, Rooney starts. Need I explain my reasoning behind that? However he may be substituted early on if we get a lead going to save him for the mouth-watering FA Cup clash with Leeds United on the 3rd of January. As for Michale Owen starting against Wigan, I want him to start because I want to see he grow with Rooney. Berbatov was pretty dull against Hull despite scoring a tap-in. The general feeling I’m getting from manutdtalk.com and listening to some radio phone-ins, is that there is some unrest about the Bulgarian and his lazy attitude and tendency to slow the game down. We shall see, but I hope its Owen for the Wigan game.——-

Key Devil

Wayne Rooney could be the key man in this game. On form from the Hull game, he’ll want to add to his tally against Wigan who he slotted two past earlier in the season. If Wigan don’t handle him, its game over as far as I’m concerned.

The Opposition

As mentioned above, they can be a little hit and miss. You dont always know what Wigan will turn up on the day. They’ve beaten Chelsea earlier in the season, but have failed to register a win since the end of November when they beat Sunderland 1-0. They’ve scored at least one goal in their last seven outings and in scoring just one goal in a match they’ve made six points over the season so far. (1 win – 3 draws – 5 defeats)

Last Seasons Corresponding Fixture

A very tidy 5-0 victory for United when we went to the JJB last August which saw Michael Owen score his first league goal for us. Berbatov, Nani and Rooney (2) also added to the celebrations. Solid performance it was, with not much to report. Nemanja Vidic got himself tangled with Hugo Rodallega once or twice so there’s a battle to watch out for on Wednesday night.

Keano’s History Lesson

Wigan have never beaten United in any competition. Nine meetings in the Premier League and one in the League Cup. Can Wigan buck that trend come Wednesday? They’ve also never scored more then one goal in a game against Ferguson’s red army.

Keano’s Verdict

Nice enough fixture to end the year. Cant see us dropping points here, and with things so tight at the top, the players will have winning the game drilled into their heads.

Manchester United 3-0 Wigan

Written by Keano

[eMJi_197]

pertemuan pertama menang 5-0 di kandang wigan
sekarang main di OT
yaaa...3-0 lah buat kemenangan MU
:muscarf:

[theater of dream]

----------Berba----Rooney------
--Obertan--Fletcher--Carrick--Park--
--Evra---Brown--Vidic-----Rafael--
--------------PIG------------
C'mon United....:devil2:

[Van_Munandar]

disiarin ga di indovision?

[Red Army]

disiarin bos...

[erin]

Hasil positif lwn hull kmren,wajib berlanjut di pertandingan kamis nanti..
Secara bek2 dh mulai pulih..
Hayo MU !!!
GGMU
http://img.kaskus.us/images/kaskusmobile_hp.gif

[Red Devils 07]

dengan hasil chelsea menang 2-1 melawan fulham..
maka pertandingan melawan wigan ini United wajib menang agar tidak makin tertinggal dengan chelsea..

[pweechevalier]

dengan hasil chelsea menang 2-1 melawan fulham..
maka pertandingan melawan wigan ini United wajib menang agar tidak makin tertinggal dengan chelsea..

Dan yg gak kalah penting...
Jangan sampe kesusul Arsenal...ih amit2 deh...

wisnu cimol

[drivemein]

United v Wigan: Preview
-manchestereveningnews.co.uk-

http://m.gmgrd.co.uk/res/287.$plit/C_71_article_1187497_image_list_image_list_item_0_ image.jpg?29%2F12%2F2009%2010%3A54%3A40%3A671

GARY Neville returns to the Manchester United squad for Wednesday's Premier League encounter with Wigan as the Reds' defensive problems continue to ease.

Neville limped out of the win at West Ham earlier this month with a groin injury but is expected to fill the right-back berth against the Latics to complete an experienced back-four.

Edwin van der Sar has been placed on compassionate leave, so Tomasz Kuszczak should continue in goal, while Paul Scholes has recovered from the hip problem that saw him miss Sunday's trip to Hull.

Midfielder Mohamed Diame is the only player unavailable for Wigan as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.

Boss Roberto Martinez kept the same XI on the field for the entire 90 minutes in the Boxing Day draw at home to Blackburn but they have had a couple more days’ rest than most teams.

Should Martinez decide to stiffen the midfield against the defending champions striker Jason Scotland would be the most likely to make way.

Manchester United (from): Kuszczak, Foster, Neville, Rafael, De Laet, Vidic, Brown, Evra, Fabio, Valencia, Park, Carrick, Fletcher, Scholes, Anderson, Gibson, Giggs, Obertan, Rooney, Berbatov, Owen, Welbeck, Tosic.

Wigan Athletic (from): Kirkland, Bramble, Scharner, Melchiot, Boyce, Figueroa, N’Zogbia, Gomez, Thomas, Scotland, Rodallega, Amaya, De Ridder, Sinclair, Kingson, Cho, Bouaouzan, McCarthy.

United league form: WLWLW

Wigan league form: WLDLD

Key opponent: Maynor Figueroa - quality player and has a cracking shot

[drivemein]

United v Wigan
-manutd.com-

http://picsrv.manutd.com/?fif=/manu/img_10_32006_6950.jpg&obj=iip,1.0&wid=240&hei=179&rgn=0.039735099337748346,0.009615384615384616,0.79 4701986754967,0.860576923076923&cvt=jpeg

Barclays Premier League
Wed 30 Dec (20:00 GMT)
Old Trafford

Match Pack: Wigan

United's 65th and final game of 2009 is against Wigan, whose 10-game record against the Reds isn't much to write home about...

Form guide: Wigan are without a win in four matches after battling to a 1-1 home draw with Blackburn on Boxing Day, a result which leaves them hovering above the relegation zone. It's been a strange old first half of the season for the Latics, who have beaten Chelsea and Aston Villa and drawn with Manchester City, but suffered heavy defeats to Portsmouth and Tottenham – the latter that incredible 9-1 reversal last month.

United bounced back from the 3-0 setback at Fulham with a largely comfortable, if error-strewn, win at Hull on Sunday. The champions will be delighted that, despite an injury crisis and five defeats already, Chelsea are still within touching distance at the top. The record in all competitions between these two north-west rivals makes good reading for United, who have won all 10 previous encounters, scoring 30 goals and conceding just four. The Reds won 5-0 at the DW Stadium in August.

Ins and outs: Wigan, remarkably, have an almost entirely clean bill of health, with only Mohamed Diame (knee) on the sidelines. The outlook is looking brighter for United, who welcomed back defenders Nemanja Vidic, Wes Brown and Rafael against Hull and now have Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Anderson available. Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand are not too far away, but Edwin van der Sar has been granted compassionate leave to be with his ill wife.

Star man: Hugo Rodallega hit Wigan's equaliser against Blackburn last week and is the Latics' top scorer with seven goals. Wigan are unbeaten in the six league matches in which the Colombian has scored. Although the Reds kept the frontman quiet in August, he will still be a handful on Wednesday with his pace and power.

Manager: Roberto Martinez's philosophy of free-flowing, attacking football has produced some mixed results this season, as we've already outlined. But he has also instilled some grit into his side: already this season they have bounced back from thumpings at Arsenal and Spurs with wins over Chelsea and Sunderland respectively. Martinez returned in the summer to the club he graced for four seasons as a midfielder in the '90s. The Spaniard began his managerial career with Swansea in 2006/07 and, in his first full season, guided them to the League One title. After the Swans just missed out on a Championship play-off place the following term, Wigan came knocking.

Referee: United's opening-day 1-0 win over Birmingham was the first time Lee Mason has taken charge of a game involving the Reds. The Lancashire official has presided over 10 other Premier League matches this season, including Wigan's 2-1 win at Burnley in October, issuing a total of 29 yellow cards and four reds.

Rivals watch: On Tuesday night, high-flying Aston Villa welcome Liverpool and Bolton travel to Hull. The only other game on Wednesday night is third-placed Arsenal's trip to rock-bottom Portsmouth.

[drivemein]

MANCHESTER UNITED v Wigan: Defensive boost for Sir Alex Ferguson as Gary Neville returns
-dailymail.co.uk-

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/29/article-1239184-06963D64000005DC-817_468x418.jpg

Gary Neville returns to the Manchester United squad for Wednesday's Premier League encounter with Wigan as the Red Devils defensive problems continue to ease.

Neville limped out of the win at West Ham earlier this month with a groin injury but is expected to fill the right-back berth against the Latics to complete an experienced back-four

Edwin van der Sar has been placed on compassionate leave, so Tomasz Kuszczak should continue in goal, while Paul Scholes has recovered from the hip problem that saw him miss Sunday's trip to Hull.

Team (from): Kuszczak, Foster, Neville, Rafael, De Laet, Vidic, Brown, Evra, Fabio, Valencia, Park, Carrick, Fletcher, Scholes, Anderson, Gibson, Giggs, Obertan, Rooney, Berbatov, Owen, Welbeck, Tosic.

[drivemein]

Anderson, Neville and Scholes set for return
-soccerway.com-

http://static.soccerway.com/photo_dynamic/orig/250/relative/12426790813.jpg

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will have Anderson, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes back on his squad for Wednesday's home game against Wigan Athletic.

The injured trio had to pull out of the Hull City visit last Sunday (1-3 win) but will be available for tomorrow's important league match against Wigan.

Ferguson also announced that centre-backs Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand will be back in action soon, with John O'Shea due to return a little later.

Edwin van der Sar, who has been missing with a knee injury since the end of November, has been told to stay in the Netherlands with his wife, who is in hospital.

The veteran goalkeeper's wife suffered a brain haemorrhage.

Ferguson says there is no need for Van der Sar to return to the club until his wife's condition improves.

"I have told Edwin to stay over there. There is no point in him being here.," said Ferguson.

"The best thing is for him to be with his wife. Hopefully she will make a good recovery."

During Van der Sar's recent absence from the United team due to his knee injury, Ferguson has preferred Tomasz Kuszczak in goal ahead of Ben Foster.

[drivemein]

Martinez - No Fergie strain
-skysports.com-

http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2009/12/29/1262084474962/Roberto-Mart-nez-001.jpg

Wigan boss and United counterpart on good terms

Roberto Martinez believes he and Sir Alex Ferguson have been able to 'laugh off' the recent comments attributed to the Wigan manager.

An article in a Spanish newspaper in October carried an interview purported to have been given by the Latics boss in which he suggested the Football Association was afraid to punish the Manchester United legend.

Martinez was also reported to have claimed that Blackburn and Everton managers Sam Allardyce and David Moyes were staunch defenders of the United boss, with the duo joining the Scot in his feud with Liverpool's Rafa Benitez.

However, the former Swansea manager had a pre-Christmas meal with Ferguson, Allardyce, Moyes and Stoke assistant Peter Reid and the Wigan boss said the incident was not an issue.

"In a way we know we are exposed to certain things. It has happened to many managers in the past and it will happen in the future," said the Spaniard, who takes his side to Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

Understanding

"What is important is to put the record straight, take action against any media group that say things that are not right and make sure the names that are involved have a clear understanding of what has happened.

"Once that is done it is quite simple to understand because we have all been in a situation when we know how exposed we are and how easy it is for it to happen.

"I think we have got a good relationship, good enough to laugh off these situations.

"It is not an issue and it does not put any strain on our relationship at all."

[drivemein]

Man United v Wigan Preview: Consistency Now the Key, says Alex Ferguson
-football.fanhouse.co.uk-

http://www.blogcdn.com/football.fanhouse.co.uk/media/2009/12/sir-alex-281209.jpg

MANCHESTER UNITED:
Sir Alex Ferguson's team are just one win away from tucking themselves in behind the leaders Chelsea, as Sir Alex Ferguson hoped they would be at the turn of the year.

Ferguson's horrendous injury list is beginning to clear, with Nemanja Vidic and Wes Brown now secure at the back, and victory over Wigan will take his team to within two points of Carlo Ancelotti's men, who still have to travel to Old Trafford and are set to lose a host of players to the African Nations Cup.

United responded to the 3-0 defeat at Fulham with a 3-1 victory at Hull and Ferguson is in no doubt about the importance of this game.

"The league is so tight now and teams are taking points off each other that you don't expect and it's tightening up the whole league," Ferguson said. "A consistent run from someone will give them a great chance and our experience of run-ins is good.

"We can handle that part, the important thing is winning this game, which would put us in a position I hoped we'd be in -, within a couple of points of the leaders coming into the new year.

"The important thing now is that we have our players back and hopefully they will stay back and we can find the consistency we usually find at the second half of the season and that will be key to us."

Strategy: United have a superb record against the Latics, having won each of the 10 games they have played against the DW Stadium outfit, and they will believe they can extend that run at Old Trafford. Having already beaten them 5-0 in the league this season, Ferguson will want his team to play quality at a tempo that Wigan can not handle.

Wigan are likely to employ Charles N'Zogbia and Hugo Rodallega in advanced wide positions and that is the area where United will win the game. It is up to Patrice Evra and Rafael to force the two Wigan wide-men deep to press Wigan in their own half and give United the platform for victory.

Injury Update: Gary Neville is back from a groin problem and Paul Scholes returns after missing the win at Hull with hip injury. Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand could return soon but John O'Shea is facing a few more weeks out. Nani is also missing.

WIGAN ATHLETIC:
Wigan's first Premier League away game of 2009 was at Old Trafford and their final game of the calendar year also takes them back to the Theatre of Dreams.

Back in January, Rooney put Ferguson's side ahead inside the opening minute but Wigan, under Steve Bruce, recovered to produce a battling performance. They may have lost 1-0 but they left Old Trafford with praise from Ferguson ringing in their ears.

"They were the best side to play here by far this season," said the United manager. "They have made us work really, really hard." A repeat performance with fill manager Roberto Martinez with hope going into 2010.

Wigan start their final game of the year looking to steer clear of the bottom three but with games in hand over the teams around them. Certainly the Spaniard will be looking for a marked improvement from the last time these sides met in August, when five goals in 34 second half minutes left the Latics on the wrong end of a 5-0 scoreline.

Chris Kirkland, the keeper, insists Wigan are going to United in high spirits after coming from behind to earn a point against Blackburn on Boxing Day.

"If we perform there like we did in the second half against Blackburn it could be our lucky day to get something from Old Trafford," said Kirkland.

"It's a great game to look forward to and everyone will have to be at 110 per cent for the entire game to even stand a chance of getting a result, and that's what will be drilled into us in the build-up to the game."

Strategy: No wonder this is being labelled as one of the safest home wins of the holiday programme. Wigan's Premier League record against United does not make happy reading: played nine, won none, lost nine, scored four, conceded 26. Yet there is a glimmer of hope for Martinez's men.

Aston Villa's 1-0 win at Old Trafford earlier this month proved that Ferguson's side are not invincible at home. The worrying aspect for Martinez's side is that they have not managed a cleansheet away from home since the opening day of the season. "It's a game where we are going to need everyone playing at their best," said Martinez.

Injury Update: Mohamed Diame, who missed the game with Blackburn due to injury, is set to make a surprise return to the substitues' bench. Martinez had originally ruled the French midfielder out of his plans for a month after he limped off with a knee injury against Liverpool on December 16. "He has progressed quicker than we originally thought he would," said Martinez. "I wouldn't be surprised if he is on the bench."

[drivemein]

Fergie rallies Rooney for Wigan test
-manchestereveningnews.co.uk-

http://m.gmgrd.co.uk/res/409.$plit/C_71_article_1187522_image_list_image_list_item_0_ image.jpg?29%2F12%2F2009%2011%3A22%3A27%3A112

SIR Alex Ferguson has called for Wayne Rooney to maintain the form that helped Manchester United destroy Hull on Sunday.

Rooney scored his 14th goal of the season to put the Reds ahead then created two more after his mistake had allowed the Tigers to level at the KC Stadium.

With Ferguson's defensive injury problems starting to ease, the United boss is now looking to build some momentum heading into the second half of a campaign which could yet end with his side being crowned champions for an unprecedented fourth consecutive Barclays Premier League season.

But for that to happen, Ferguson acknowledges he needs Rooney to be fit and firing.

After a couple of lethargic performances from the 24-year-old, his most recent effort signalled a revival, one that his manager is looking for Rooney to continue.

"Wayne was fantastic on Sunday. That was the Wayne Rooney we know," said Ferguson.

"He had a quiet spell for two or three matches but he was explosive at Hull. He was a constant threat.

"That is the kind of form we are hoping for because when he is playing like that, he is hard to handle."

However, ahead of tomorrow night's local derby with Wigan at Old Trafford, Ferguson is expecting others to step forward too.

Berbatov assistance

Dimitar Berbatov has not always given the impression of being a man at ease with his surroundings.

The former Tottenham star capitalised on Rooney's through ball to tap in United's third goal at the weekend and is certainly capable of adding to his current tally of five.

Michael Owen is hoping for an opportunity to show his class as well, while Paul Scholes is set to return from a hip problem tomorrow as United look to narrow the gap on leaders Chelsea to just a couple of points heading into the new year.

"Wayne can step forward and be the main man but there are a few who have to step forward in that respect," said Ferguson.

"We are coming to the time now. The challenge is there.

"The league is so tight and teams are taking points off each other that you don't expect.

"It means a consistent run from someone will give them a great chance.

"Our experience of run-ins is good. We know we can handle that part.

"The important thing is to beat Wigan tomorrow which would put us into the position I hoped we could get to, a couple of points off the leaders coming into the new year."

[cr7lover]

duh baru inget manager Wigan skr dah bukan Steve Bruce...kemaren pas lawan Hull ngeliat Bruce di bangku penonton bego2nya masi sempet mikir nih org lagi "ngerjain pr" buat Wigan vs United hihi

[rondwisan]

29/12/2009 10:30 - ManUtd.com, James Tuck
Match Pack: Wigan

http://picsrv.manutd.com/?fif=/manu/img_10_32006_6950.jpg&obj=iip,1.0&wid=240&hei=179&rgn=0.039735099337748346,0.009615384615384616,0.79 4701986754967,0.860576923076923&cvt=jpeg

United's 65th and final game of 2009 is against Wigan, whose 10-game record against the Reds isn't much to write home about...

Form guide: Wigan are without a win in four matches after battling to a 1-1 home draw with Blackburn on Boxing Day, a result which leaves them hovering above the relegation zone. It's been a strange old first half of the season for the Latics, who have beaten Chelsea and Aston Villa and drawn with Manchester City, but suffered heavy defeats to Portsmouth and Tottenham – the latter that incredible 9-1 reversal last month.

United bounced back from the 3-0 setback at Fulham with a largely comfortable, if error-strewn, win at Hull on Sunday. The champions will be delighted that, despite an injury crisis and five defeats already, Chelsea are still within touching distance at the top. The record in all competitions between these two north-west rivals makes good reading for United, who have won all 10 previous encounters, scoring 30 goals and conceding just four. The Reds won 5-0 at the DW Stadium in August.

Ins and outs: Wigan, remarkably, have an almost entirely clean bill of health, with only Mohamed Diame (knee) on the sidelines. The outlook is looking brighter for United, who welcomed back defenders Nemanja Vidic, Wes Brown and Rafael against Hull and now have Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Anderson available. Jonny Evans and Rio Ferdinand are not too far away, but Edwin van der Sar has been granted compassionate leave to be with his ill wife.

Star man: Hugo Rodallega hit Wigan's equaliser against Blackburn last week and is the Latics' top scorer with seven goals. Wigan are unbeaten in the six league matches in which the Colombian has scored. Although the Reds kept the frontman quiet in August, he will still be a handful on Wednesday with his pace and power.

Manager: Roberto Martinez's philosophy of free-flowing, attacking football has produced some mixed results this season, as we've already outlined. But he has also instilled some grit into his side: already this season they have bounced back from thumpings at Arsenal and Spurs with wins over Chelsea and Sunderland respectively. Martinez returned in the summer to the club he graced for four seasons as a midfielder in the '90s. The Spaniard began his managerial career with Swansea in 2006/07 and, in his first full season, guided them to the League One title. After the Swans just missed out on a Championship play-off place the following term, Wigan came knocking.

Referee: United's opening-day 1-0 win over Birmingham was the first time Lee Mason has taken charge of a game involving the Reds. The Lancashire official has presided over 10 other Premier League matches this season, including Wigan's 2-1 win at Burnley in October, issuing a total of 29 yellow cards and four reds.

Rivals watch: On Tuesday night, high-flying Aston Villa welcome Liverpool and Bolton travel to Hull. The only other game on Wednesday night is third-placed Arsenal's trip to rock-bottom Portsmouth.

[Diego]

Tutup tahun dgn kado tahun baru indah,bantai wigan....
http://img.kaskus.us/images/kaskusmobile_hp.gif

[B4YU]

preview dari official BPL

Referee: Lee Mason

Manchester United (2nd) v Wigan Athletic (15th)

Champions Manchester United host Wigan Athletic eager to close the gap on Chelsea at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

Manchester United team news

Gary Neville returns to the Manchester United squad for the Barclays Premier League encounter with Wigan as the Red Devils' defensive problems continue to ease.

Neville limped out of the win at West Ham earlier this month with a groin injury but is expected to fill the right-back berth against the Latics to complete an experienced back four.

Edwin van der Sar has been placed on compassionate leave, so Tomasz Kuszczak should continue in goal, while Paul Scholes has recovered from the hip problem which saw him miss Sunday's trip to Hull City.

Wigan Athletic team news

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez will check on the general fitness of his squad ahead of Wednesday's trip to Manchester United.

The Spaniard kept the same XI on the field for the entire 90 minutes in the Boxing Day draw at home to Blackburn and even with a couple of extra days of rest he may choose to freshen things up.

Midfielder Mohamed Diame is the only player unavailable as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.

squads

Manchester United: Kuszczak, Foster, Neville, Rafael, De Laet, Vidic, Brown, Evra, Fabio, Valencia, Park, Carrick, Fletcher, Scholes, Anderson, Gibson, Giggs, Obertan, Rooney, Berbatov, Owen, Welbeck, Tosic.

Wigan Athletic: Kirkland, Bramble, Scharner, Melchiot, Boyce, Figueroa, N'Zogbia, Gomez, Thomas, Scotland, Rodallega, Amaya, De Ridder, Sinclair, Kingson, Cho, Bouaouzan, McCarthy.

[and1]

mantab deh, pemaen2 lini belakang perlahan kembali pulih semua
wajib menang utk tetap menempel chelsi dg selisih 2 poin, apalagi di pertemuan pertama di kandang wigan, kita menang 0-5

perkiraan formasi

kusczack
neville/rafael
vidic
brown
evra
valencia
carrick
scholes/fletcher
park/giggs/obertan
rooney
owen/berbatov

[darryldevils]

harus menang, minimal 5-0 juga lah kalo bisa. hehe, menang lah, deketin chelsea. kita pasti bisa

[loveUNITED]

M.U dong tebak2 iseng ah

3-1 buat M.U

Wazza(2),scholes(1) amien

tutup tahun baru dengan membawa kemenangan untuk M.U..........:muscarf:

:ui2:

[n3o7]

buat teman-teman yang nyari link streaming tambahan, coba ini deh:
http://tv.indonewyork.com/soccer1
password: indah

[ferly_Liemz]

half time...
United 3 wigan nothing...
goal by rooney,carrick and rafael...
rafael tuh bukan bek kale yak...bisa ada di depan gawang kaya gitu...
hihihihihihihi

[eMJi_197]

^^
babak kedua sudah dimulai :D

rafael itu memang paling suka overlapping :thumbup:

[iCarus]

Oh Yeaaah....


FT : ManUtd 5 - 0 Wigan

[ferly_Liemz]

Kamis, 31/12/2009 04:54 WIB

'Setan Merah' Pesta Lima Gol di Old Trafford
Mohammad Resha Pratama - detiksport

http://www.detiksport.com/images/content/2009/12/31/72/muVSwigan1-i.jpg

Manchester - Pesta gol mewarnai tutup tahun Manchester United, Kamis (31/12/2009) dinihari WIB, usai The Red Devils membantai Wigan Athletic lima gol tanpa balas.

Dalam laga yang dihelat di Old Trafford itu, kelima gol MU dicetak oleh lima pemain berbeda. Di babak pertama ada Wayne Rooney, Michael Carrick dan Rafael da Silva. Sementara Dimitar Berbatov dan Antonio Valencia menambahnya di babak kedua.

Raihan poin penuh ini membawa 'Setan Merah' tetap menempel ketat Chelsea di puncak klasemen dengan 43 poin dari 20 laga berlalu, selisih dua dengan rivalnya tersebut. Dan Wigan masih terpuruk di posisi ke-16 dengan 19 poin dari 19 laganya.

Jalannya pertandingan

Pada menit ke-20 tendangan keras Wayne Rooney dari jarak 30 yard masih dapat ditepis oleh Chris Kirkland. Bola rebound menuju ke Antonio Valencia yang langsung mengumpan ke Nemanja Vidic yang tendangannya masih diblok oleh Paul Scharner.

Semenit berselang Rooney yang lolos dari kawalan pemain belakang WIgan melepaskan tendangan melengkung yang berhasil menaklukkan Kirkland namun tidak dengan tiang gawang. Bola membentur dan kembali ke tangkapan Kirkland.

Gol yang ditunggu MU pun hadir ketika marka laga memasuki 30 menit. Bola sodoran Valencia diterima oleh Rafael yang kemudian melakukan overlaping dan mengumpan silang ke kotak penalti. Di sana ada Rooney yang melepaskan tendangan voli yang menjebol jala Kirkland.

Dua menit kemudian Michael Carrick menggandakan keunggulan MU lewat sebuah tembakan ke arah pojok jala Kirkland usai menerima umpan dari Valencia.

Dan di penghujung babak pertama Rafael menjauhkan skor jadi 3-0 untuk MU. Mendapat assist Darren Flecther, Rafael kemudian mengecoh Kirkland dan dengan mudah menceploskan bola ke jala Wigan.

Lima selepas jeda MU kembali membuat gawang Wigan bergetar untuk keempat kalinya. Akselerasi Valencia di sayap kanan diakhirnya dengan sebuah crossing ke dalam kotak penalti dan Berbatov pun dengan mudah menyontek bola ke jala Michael Pollit.

Di menit ke-53 aksi Berbatov yang lepas dari kawalan pemain Wigan pun dituntaskannya dengan sebuah umpan silang yang disambut tandukan Rooney. Sayang bola masih membentur tiang gawang.

Wigan mencuri kesempatan untuk mencetak gol pertamanya dalam laga ini melalui sepakan voli Hugo Rodallega yang masih dapat diselamatkan oleh Tomasz Kuszczak di tiang dekat.

Pada menit ke-75 Valencia turut mencatatkan namanya di papan skor. Umpan terobosan dari Rooney membelah pertahanan Wigan dan Valencia yang berlari meyambut bola untuk kemudian men-chip bola melewati hadangan Pollit.

Susunan pemain

MU: Kuszczak, Rafael Da Silva, Brown, Vidic (Anderson 68'), Evra (Fabio 69'), Valencia, Carrick, Fletcher, Park, Berbatov (Wellbeck 68'), Rooney.

Wigan: Kirkland (Pollit 45'), Melchiot, Boyce, Bramble, Figueroa, Gomez, Thomas (Edman 71'), Cho, Scharner, N'Zogbia (Sinclair 68'), Rodallega.

[dhona.7]

kado spesial bwt ultah opah... :nice:

[Supernan]

Menutup 2009 dengan kemenangan 5-0 atas Wigan, pas bner ini deh.

Semoga Mei 2010 jd top table!!! Amin

[marsel david]

Menutup 2009 dengan kemenangan 5-0 atas Wigan, pas bner ini deh.

Semoga Mei 2010 jd top table!!! Amin

amiin....

emang mantep banget permainan lawan wigan tadi subuh..
mudah2an permainannya akan terus konsisten seperti tadi subuh..
supaya bisa kembali lagi ke puncak klasemen...
terkesima liat permainannya rafael..
keren banget tuh bocah semalem... overlapping terus and hasilnya berbuntut 1 goal atas nama dirinya
keren banget dah pokoknya^:)^

[B4YU]

liat kerjasama Rafael n Vale mangsstabbb........:beer::beer:

tapi klo lawan tim kuat bisa bahaya tuh pos yg ditinggal Rafael...:crazy:

qA_sY8_ye0A

[dree_united]

video highlightnya please, di youtube kok pada ga bisa semua ya....

[Nemanje]

liat kerjasama Rafael n Vale mangsstabbb........:beer::beer:

tapi klo lawan tim kuat bisa bahaya tuh pos yg ditinggal Rafael...:crazy:

qA_sY8_ye0A



ne bisa ko..

[pweechevalier]

Alhamdulillah...
Menang telak 5-0...
Kado spesial buat ultah SAF... :mudance:

wisnu cimol

[B4YU]

We Love You Rafael

http://therepublikofmancunia.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/rafael4.jpg

We love Rafael for…
1. Assisting Wayne Rooney’s goal.
2. Celebrating the assist as though he’d scored a goal himself.
3. Scoring a goal himself.
4. Dashing over to his brother to share the glory with him.
5. Getting stuck in whenever given the opportunity.

One of his best games in a United shirt. Well done, lad.

6zmggu_4OAo&feature=player_embedded

[Tomtom]

berasa kayak punya dua winger kanan semalam....hehehe
dua2 nya nyetak goal lagi...mantap dah
rooney harus nya hattrick lagi tuh
carrick goalnya khas carrick banget....
Berba bikin goal lagi...hehehe di beritain cedera dan harus operasi malah bikin goal terus...
Valencia bikin goal juga buat ex-team nya....
dan MU cleansheet lagi....senangnya... :)
ayo pepet terus itu rentboys...jangan kasih jarak lagi...

semoga bisa terus menjaga performance yang bagus ini....

[erin]

hasil akhir tahun yg mantab...
sayangx kagak ntn...huhuhuhu.
td pg lgsung liat livescore..
waow..
5-0..
jd musim ini MU ngalahin wigan dgn skor 10-0..
I LOVE WIGAN...!!!!!
hehehehehhehehehe
MU bakalan tampil lbh gahar di musim 2010...


BDW..
hepi bday bwt opa fergie...!!!!

[and1]

akhirnya UNITED udah kembali ke peforma biasa, mantab deh
kliatannya dg kembalinya para defender, permainan kita semakin membaek di setiap match

bener bgt, rooney hrsnya bisa hattrick, sayang krg beruntung, coba lg next match
permainan tim, ini yg gw suka, ga bergantung 1 pemaen lg, semua bisa cetak gol
overall semua maen bagus semalam, evra, rafael, vida, brown, carrick, fletch, valencia, park, roo, berba, kusczack

[drivemein]

Manchester United 5 Wigan 0: Wayne Rooney has a blinder as United close the gap on leaders Chelsea to two points
-dailymail.co.uk-

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-1239506-07BADB92000005DC-127_233x254.jpg

Sir Alex Ferguson will mark the dawn of his 68th birthday by holding a press conference ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup-tie against Leeds.

It is not a part of the job he enjoys but the Manchester United manager’s mood will be bright.

At the halfway point of a season that has presented him with more problems than he could have envisaged, Ferguson’s team are, nevertheless, exactly where he would wish them to be.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-0-07BAA4D8000005DC-362_468x332.jpg
Perfect start: Wayne Rooney scores United's opening goal at Old Trafford

With Liverpool’s title challenge already spent, Arsenal persistently unpredictable and Chelsea looking strangely vulnerable, Ferguson will look in to another new year and see only positives.

The final game of United’s decade could not have been more straightforward. Another 5-0 hammering of a Wigan team they dismissed by the same score at the start of the season moved the Premier League champions back to within two points of leaders Chelsea.

With a relatively untaxing run of fixtures ahead of them in January, United are gathering momentum.

Free now of the defensive crisis that threatened to engulf them in early winter, there were signs at Hull City on Sunday and here at Old Trafford that United are developing a little of the clinical, ruthless appetite for victory that characterises Ferguson’s time at the club.

They had to work hard at Hull, where Wayne Rooney largely dragged them through on his own. This game was different.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-0-07BAA51B000005DC-227_468x295.jpg
On target: Michael Carrick scores United's second goal against Wigan

Wigan clearly have a mental block when it comes to United, having lost all 10 Premier League fixtures against them, and this was a cakewalk.

United’s disposal of Roberto Martinez’s team was none the less impressive for that. Driven by the relentless Rooney and adorned by superb contributions from Antonio Valencia and young Brazilian defender Rafael da Silva, this was as good a performance as there has been from Ferguson’s side this season.

Despite the statistics, this season United have not carried the same irresistible threat afforded them by the departed Cristiano Ronaldo. Last night, though, they looked a little more like their old selves.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-0-07BAAB01000005DC-916_468x296.jpg
Three and easy: Rafael Da Silva fires home for United

Ferguson said: ‘The first 45 minutes were the best we have seen this season, the fluid movement and tempo of the game were terrific for us. It was marvellous stuff. We kept the momentum going for the whole night. We realised there was an opportunity to get more goals.

'We’ve got within two points of Chelsea and two ahead of Arsenal. So it’s a good night for us.’

Despite the absence of Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Edwin van der Sar, Rooney was still not given the captain’s armband by Ferguson.

This time the honour went to defender Patrice Evra. Ferguson’s logic on this issue is hard to fathom but the decision to overlook Rooney again certainly didn’t impact on the 24-year-old’s performance.

As he prepares for one of the most important years of his career, Rooney is in superb fettle and England coach Fabio Capello can only hope that his form and fitness sustains into the World Cup summer in South Africa.

Rooney was out of the traps quickly and after sending Dimitar Berbatov through on goal and striking the post after poking the ball through the legs of Maynor Figueroa, United’s most important player gave his team the lead just before the half-hour.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-0-07BAB32E000005DC-673_468x267.jpg
May the fourth be with you: Berbatov scores as United ease to victory

The build-up was prosaic enough but when Rafael crossed to the near post from the right, Rooney’s anticipation and movement were enough to get him ahead of Bramble, and a flick of his right boot enough to divert the ball across Chris Kirkland and into the far corner.

Wigan had been in the game - just about - up until this point but the next 15 minutes effectively ended the contest.

A low cross from Valencia was side-footed into the net by Michael Carrick from 12 yards and then in first-half injury time Rafael turned adroitly in the area to send three defenders the wrong way and found space to drag a left-foot shot across the goalkeeper and into the corner.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-0-07BABC6C000005DC-672_468x277.jpg
Five star: Antonio Valencia applies the gloss to a comfortable victory

Wigan must have felt a little dizzy at the interval, such was the manner in which they had been pulled around late in the half.

In truth they contributed to their own problems, though. As Martinez admitted, there was not enough aggression, not enough fight.

Perhaps there was too much respect. Wigan goalkeeper Kirkland was replaced by Mike Pollitt at half time as he was suffering from a virus.

The substitute immediately saved from Rooney and then saw a header from the same player strike the bar.

But in between Berbatov scored with his left foot after Wigan’s holding player Hendry Thomas fell over to allow another Valencia cross to pass across the penalty area.

Gradually growing in to his role at Old Trafford, Valencia enjoyed a good night and scored himself late on after Rooney - who else? - split the Wigan defence once again.

Martinez was understandably disappointed and said: ‘We made it easy for them. We never played like a team and we must correct that.’

His will be an uncomfortable New Year’s Eve. Ferguson’s will be somewhat brighter.

* Wigan have opened talks with Borussia Moenchengladbach defender Steve Gohouri. The 28-year-old Ivory Coast international flew in last night and hopes to seal a free transfer after falling out with the Bundesliga side.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-1239506-07BA9E5E000005DC-241_233x314.jpg
Ready to return: Rio Ferdinand at Old Trafford for United's clash with Wigan

[drivemein]

United 5 Wigan 0: Player ratings
-manchestereveningnews.co.uk-

http://m.gmgrd.co.uk/res/444.$plit/C_71_article_1187821_image_list_image_list_item_0_ image.jpg?30%2F12%2F2009%2022%3A16%3A27%3A163

Kuszczak: Good job he had gloves to keep him warm because Wigan certainly didn’t 6

Rafael: Free to attack when he wanted to and the young Brazilian took full advantage 8

Vidic: Could have probably dealt with Wigan attack even when he had his calf problem 6

Brown: Solid when needed which wasn’t often and made one great break from defence 7

Evra: Nights like this are a stroll for a player of his quality 6

Valencia: Was involved in three build ups to United goals and finished sublimely himself 8

Carrick: Didn’t need to break sweat either in midfield or defence 7

Fletcher: Broke up any minor threat Wigan tried to pose in midfield 7

Park: Didn’t really get involved as much as you’d expect on such a night 6

Berbatov: Two goals on trot and the £30m man might just be getting into his stride 7

Rooney: Built on his explosive Hull form with another goal making and taking display 8

Subs:

Anderson (sub Vidic 67) Lively 6

Welbeck (sub Berbatov 67) Enjoyed the freedom 6

Fabio (sub Evra 67) Simple task 6

Neville, Owen, Obertan, Amos not used

Goals:

United: Rooney (28) Carrick (31) Rafael (45) Berbatov (50) Valencia (75)

Wigan: None

Bookings:

United: None

Wigan: N’Zogbia (58)

Referee: Lee Mason - Easy to control 7

Attendance: 74560

[drivemein]

Boss praises collective effort
-manutd.com-

http://picsrv.manutd.com/?fif=/manu/img_10_32371_2397.jpg&obj=iip,1.0&wid=480&hei=179&rgn=0.050347222222222224,0.3419354838709677,0.8333 333333333333,0.38494623655913984&cvt=jpeg

Sir Alex Ferguson praised an excellent team performance after a second 5-0 win over Wigan Athletic this season.

It is hard not to acknowledge the individual contributions of stand-out performers Wayne Rooney, Antonio Valencia and Rafael, but the Reds boss was keen to point out that the victory was created by the collective.

“It was an excellent performance, I'm very pleased,” he told MUTV. “On Sunday and again tonight, Wayne was absolutely fantastic. The energy he shows, and his desire to win, is marvellous. I was pleased to see Valencia get another goal for us, that is really key. And he’ll get more goals for us. It was also brilliant seeing Rafael celebrate his goal by running over to his brother. They love playing football and it’s terrific to see that enthusiasm. It’s an underestimated quality at times. But those two boys are a pair of aces.

“But on this particular night the whole team played well. I don’t really want to pick individuals out at this important part of the season because every man has to play his part, and they all did tonight.”

United were 3-0 up at half time and realistically had the game tied up with a blistering first-half display. But Sir Alex was pleased that his men didn’t let the tempo drop. “I think the first half performance in particular was one of the best of the season,” added the boss. “There was fluid movement, a good tempo and we created a lot of chances.

"But I thought we kept the momentum going for the whole night, and we recognised that it was an opportunity to get goals. Goal difference, you never know, could be important come the end of the season. We’re now two points behind Chelsea and our goal difference (27) is up there with Chelsea’s (29) and Arsenal’s (30). We’re in with a great chance.”

[drivemein]

High five! Manchester United blitz gives Sir Alex Ferguson perfect early birthday gift
-dailymail.co.uk-


Manchester United gave manager Sir Alex Ferguson the perfect birthday present by closing the gap on leaders Chelsea to two points with a stunning 5-0 victory over Wigan.

Ferguson, 68 on New Year's Eve, saw Wayne Rooney deliver another masterclass as second-placed United turned up the heat in the Barclays Premier League title race by also cutting Chelsea’s advantage in terms of goal difference to just two.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-1239539-07BAA3D5000005DC-40_468x309.jpg
That's for you, boss: Rooney, who produced another brilliant display, celebrates his goal

After goals by Rooney, Michael Carrick, Rafael, Dimitar Berbatov and Antonio Valencia, delighted Ferguson said: ‘I think the first 45 minutes were the best we have seen this season. It was marvellous stuff.’

It was also a good night for third-placed Arsenal as they demolished troubled bottom club Portsmouth 4-1 at Fratton Park.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/12/30/article-1239539-07BABAE5000005DC-25_468x286.jpg
High five: Antonio Valencia completes the rout over his former club to cut down Chelsea's lead at the top of the table

They are now only four points behind Chelsea with a match in hand and manager Arsene Wenger made it clear the title race is very much on, saying: ‘We’re up for it. We’re ready for the fight.’

[drivemein]

Martinez - Rout unacceptable
-skysports.com-

http://img.skysports.com/09/10/218x298/martinez_2370093.jpg

Wigan boss angry with defending in United mauling

Roberto Martinez accused Wigan of playing like individuals in their 5-0 mauling at Manchester United.

The Latics were on the receiving end of identical punishment by the Red Devils, who managed to replicate their five-goal success at the DW Stadium in Wednesday's Old Trafford encounter.

United ended the year in style as goals from Wayne Rooney, Michael Carrick, Rafael da Silva, Dimitar Berbatov and Antonio Valencia heaped more misery on a Latics side that look in big trouble going into the second half of the season.

Their latest rout - the fifth time they have conceded four goals or more in a game - has left Martinez questioning his side's ability to play as a team.

"We never gave a game to United," the Spaniard told Sky Sports. "We were extremely, extremely disappointing in all the things we have to do to be a team.

"You come to places like Old Trafford and it's not good enough to be good - you have to be perfect and be solid and earn the right to express yourself and try to win the football game.

Punished

"Today we started everything the other way round and we played like individuals and never looked like a team and when you do that you get heavily punished.

"It has happened too many times this season and it's unacceptable and we will have to correct it.

Another blow to Wigan was Chris Kirkland's failure to return for the second-half.

But Martinez expects his regular shot-stopper to be fit for Saturday's FA Cup third round clash against Hull.

"It shouldn't be that serious," the Latics boss added of Kirkland's substitution.

"I think he has been under the weather - he has had a cold and it is something that he could not carry on but it's not a problem at all."

[drivemein]

Sir Alex Ferguson hails 'marvellous' Manchester United win over Wigan
-guardian.co.uk-

http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Admin/BkFill/Default_image_group/2009/12/31/1262218207119/Sir-Alex-Ferguson-001.jpg

• The whole team played well, says manager
• Wayne Rooney was 'absolutely fantastic'

Sir Alex Ferguson said he had an "uncomfortable" Christmas after two damaging defeats but he is in the right mood to celebrate his 68th birthday, and the new year, after Manchester United hit top form to demolish Wigan 5-0 and move up to within two points of Chelsea, the Premier League leaders.

The United manager believes his team are well placed to go on the sort of run which burned off all opposition after Christmas last season. They won 11 league games in succession then, to overhaul Chelsea and Liverpool, and are looking to do the same to retain their title.

Ferguson said: "I think the players realised there were goals there to be scored tonight and they took their chance. That was good because, who knows, goal difference could be important at the end of the season."

To Wigan's chagrin, the architect of their demoralising defeat was Antonio Valencia, the Ecuador winger they sold to United for £16m during the summer. Valencia, signed to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, unhinged his old team's defence time and again, setting up three goals before scoring the fifth himself, and Ferguson said: "The really important thing for us is that Antonio scored another goal [his sixth of the season]. That was key for him. He'll get a lot more."

After praising Valencia and describing the form of Wayne Rooney, who scored his 14th goal in 19 league games, as "absolutely fantastic", Ferguson added that he preferred not to single out individuals on this occasion. "The whole team played well", he explained. "They all need to play their part, and at the moment they are certainly doing that. It was marvellous stuff tonight.

"Defeats against Aston Villa and Fulham gave us an uncomfortable Christmas, and five defeats in the first half of the season is already one more than we had in the whole of last season. That's a concern, but the way the league is going it's not fatal. I just hope that we haven't damaged ourselves too much.

"There have been a few shock results this season that hopefully might mean the title is taken with fewer points than usual."

Rooney, enjoying what the England striker regards as his best season, expects at least eight more goals, which would eclipse the 23 he scored in all competitions in 2006-07. "If I don't do that, there will be something seriously wrong," he said.

The manager said he intended to pick a "very different" team for Sunday's FA Cup tie at home to Leeds United. "There will be a chance for a couple of the younger players, and we also have Gary Neville available. Johnny Evans is back in training and Rio Ferdinand has started and is running well. He's not that far away."

[drivemein]

A Stylish Farewell To 2009
-manchesterunited.vitalfootball.co.uk-

http://images.sportinglife.com/09/12/330/Antonio-Valencia_2402356.jpg

All in all, 2009 was a good year for Manchester United. Sure, we had our fair share of problems (losing the Champions League final, the departure of our best player, the endless injuries etc.) but in the end, we won our 18th league title and still have a realistic chance of landing the 19th as well.

And we said goodbye to 2009 in style: for the first time this season, Old Trafford witnessed a demolition on the grand scale. Wigan were outplayed for 90 minutes, they were chasing shadows all night and that it took as long as 27 minutes for United to break the deadlock is almost miraculous.

The Champions, for once, looked like Champions: from the kickoff we set a high tempo, we passed the ball intelligently and we had clear ideas about how to disrupt and stretch the Wigan defence. Once again, Carrick and Fletcher were deployed in midfield and it's painfully obvious that their partnership is the best we have in the middle of the park. Their high intensity game, combined with the energy and guile of our forwards brought an avalanche of chances and Wigan could have been blown away by the 25th minute.

Rooney hit the inside of the post; Berbatov should have won a penalty when Bramble clipped him from behind; Berbatov was clear on goal but lifted the ball wide of the target; Scharner cleared a Vidic effort off the line - and these were only the biggest chances before the opener.

Which was scored by the player who is in world class form and whose football is a joy to watch at the moment. Wayne Rooney is clearly relishing the increased responsibility and it must be noted that making him the penalty taker did wonders for his confidence: penalties can help him get over barren spells without developing the immense frustration that so often characterised his football. Against Wigan he was at the peak of his powers, tormenting defenders mercilessly and there was something inevitable that he got on the end of Rafael's fine cross and that he could produce a deft finish with which Kirkland had no chance at all.

And it was game over. Wigan, it must be acknowledged, had no fight in them, they simply gave up as they never seemed to believe they could get a result at Old Trafford. United did not slow down for a minute, the battering continued without a trace of remorse and soon enough our efforts were rewarded: the somewhat uncertain Berbatov produced a fine pass for Valencia, who terrorised Figueroa all night, and his perfect cutback found the excellent Carrick who elegantly sidefooted the ball into the net.

Wigan still could not muster a real chance as the United onslaught did not stop but it was only in the stoppage time of the first half that the third goal we so richly deserved came: Rafael found some space among the hesitant Latics defenders and he fired home a fine left-footed shot from the edge of the area then ran off to celebrate with his delighted brother who was sitting on the bench.

There was a danger that the second half could turn into a boring procession as the game was already over but fortunately, United seemed to realise that goal difference could be important and set out to give it a real boost. After some early pressure, Valencia's low cross somehow found Berbatov - the defenders fell in every direction... - who slotted the ball home with the outside of his right foot. Lovely finish and a deserved goal for the Bulgarian who was clearly eager to help the team.

Even then it did not become some boring, scrappy affair: Wigan had two good chances to grab a consolation goal that they barely deserved while United kept on playing some excellent passing football, not allowing the game to degenerate into some scrappy kickabout. And though Fergie planned ahead and gave Berbatov, Evra and Vidic a rest, he seemingly did not even consider taking Rooney off as he was evidently enjoying himself on the pitch. And it was worth leaving him on as the he set up the game's best goal: his defence-splitting pass found Antonio Valencia who lifted it over Pollitt (who replaced Kirkland at the interval) using the outside of his right foot to complete as good a night's work as any this season.

This was United at their best and though it does not make us a better team than we were three days ago, it was a hell of a display, a joy to watch. A fitting farewell to 2009 which, as I said, was essentially a good year for Manchester United fans and players alike.

[Red Army]

sekali lagi Kuszczak membuktikan ketangguhannya di bawah mistar, sekarang dah gak kuatir lg kalo Edwin absen. Gol2 waktu lawan Fulham & Villa semata2 bukan krn kesalahan kiper...

[Ayunda]

sekali lagi Kuszczak membuktikan ketangguhannya di bawah mistar, sekarang dah gak kuatir lg kalo Edwin absen. Gol2 waktu lawan Fulham & Villa semata2 bukan krn kesalahan kiper...


Moga2 aja Kuszczak emang udah stabil maennya. Ayo, pertahanin clean sheet! %%-

[ecly_watchaa]

kamfreett,...PLN ngadat dr sore hingga subuh dgr berita gembira ini
malah dr temen opis,..gt ngantor giliran kantor yg gak berdaya
ama listrik yg byar pet hingga jam pulang....ampuunnn...!!!

kado spesial buat opa....:-bd congratz...!!

[red_girl_mia]

sweetest present for Opa......:-"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OPA...WISH U ALWAYS BE MAN U SOULMATE.....FOREVER...ENTIRE OF UR LIVE......:mudance:

[rondwisan]

Manchester United vs Wigan Athletic, match statistic
SkySport

http://img.skysports.com/09/12/218x298/Antonio-Valencia-Manchester-United-Premier-Le_2402354.jpg

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa130/bar_1129/2009_2010/ManUtd_Wigan_stat.jpg