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Five Things Learned From Manchester United vs Liverpool

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Liverpool have advanced to the Europa League Quarter-Finals after Manchester United were unable to overcome a two-goal first-leg deficit in this all-English encounter. It is yet another blow for the Red Devils , as well as Louis van Gaal. Meanwhile, Liverpool may well fancy their chances of lifting the trophy under Jurgen Klopp, even though they may have to come up against his former side, Borussia Dortmund.

Here are five things we learned from tonight’s game:

  1. LVG finally allowed his team creative freedom – but then he had to.
The Dutch manager’s hand was forced after the first leg loss, and with the task of trying to make up a two-goal difference, United had no choice but to take the game to Liverpool. The early stages of the second-leg tie saw a much more dynamic United side when attacking, something far different to LVG’s usual tactics.
     2. Coutinho’s goal was crucial for the visitors.
Any momentum United had built up with Anthony Martial’s goal was abruptly ended by the brilliant Coutinho, who produced a calm and sublime finish, to put yet another nail in LVG’s United reign.
     3. It was hardly a funereal atmosphere, despite Liverpool’s all-black kit
Old Trafford was absolutely rocking for this encounter. Sometimes the atmosphere at United is lacking, a bit flat. Tonight was not one of those occasions. Why can’t the United fans produce this kind of noise at every home game?
    4. Officials get a rousing reception – before the game even starts!
When figures emerged from the tunnel fifteen minutes before kick off, the home fans started to erupt. Thinking it was the United players they were cheering for, they must have been surprised to see the referee and his assistants taking to the field instead! It was a nice touch for the officials, who don’t always get the recognition they deserve.
    5. Was a penalty decision against United the moment this tie was ended?
Martial put United ahead on the night from the penalty spot, but should they have had one when Sakho brought down Marcus Rashford on 25 minutes? The referee decided it wasn’t, and any lingering hopes United had were dashed, possibly ended.
By Steve Osborne                 @BlizzardSteve75

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