For the couple chances United has had going forward, they've been shaky at best in the center of the park and much closer to poor. David Silva should have put City ahead very early on when he was alone in on goal, but he put the shot past the post and City has found more possession going forward than they did at any point in the November clash between these two sides.
Manchester United Vs. Manchester City: City Getting The Best Of United Midfield
On both the left and right, City has had their way. Silva has been the best player on the pitch despite his bad miss and whether out by the touchline, cutting in or taking the ball to the end line, he’s been a menace to United. On the left side, Aleksander Kolarov was assumed to be deployed in an attempt to help keep Nani under wraps and not only has he for the most part, but he’s caused trouble going forward as well. Meanwhile, United hasn’t been able to create much in the attack through the center and have gotten caught up playing long balls to Rooney.
The first time these two clubs met, United dominated possession in the center of the park. City was organized and content to get stuck in, especially Nigel de Jong, who is unavailable today due to an ankle injury. This time around, City have found success with the ball, especially on the wings and that early success on the wings has led to a bit more space in the center as the match has gone on.
One place United might try to turn the midfield tide is on the left. Patrice Evra has had some success pushing forward from his left back spot and twice got space near the end line. A few more runs like that might force Silva and the other City midfielders to track back a bit more, slowing down their attack.
Luckily for United, the back line has been steady and Chris Smalling has done well to close down some City chances. Despite winning the midfield battle, City have yet to generate much through the always dangerous Carlos Tevez thanks to the United back line's work.
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