Preview of Premier League clash between big rivals at Anfield
It’s THAT day in football once again.
Twice per season, football fans are treated to this cracker of a game, between Liverpool and Manchester United. This year however, not as much is at stake as fans of the clubs are normally used to.
Both teams have had topsy-turvy seasons and are struggling for consistency. However, both teams will find today’s match incredibly important. Liverpool have been slightly behind United for the majority of the season, but it’s been tight between them, with both teams in the hunt for a top 4 place.
United start the day 3 points ahead of Liverpool in 6th, with Liverpool in 9th. A win for United today would really make getting into the top 4 tough for Liverpool, however Liverpool have only lost 1 in their last 6 games, and played well in a 3-3 draw at home Arsenal on Wednesday night.
A win for Liverpool will really increase the pressure on United manager Louis van Gaal. United fans really hate losing to Liverpool, and a loss here would raise serious questions from the fans, after questions marks all season on Van Gaal’s ‘boring’ style of play.
The fixture has thrown up some classic contests over the years, with United winning the reverse fixture 3-1 in September, thanks to goals from Daley Blind, Ander Herrera and debutant Anthony Martial. They also won at Anfield last season, with a 2-1 victory being secured with goals from Juan Mata, but the fixture possibly being best remembered for Steven Gerrard being sent off 40 seconds after getting onto the pitch in what would be his last game against United.
Liverpool have had their fair share of wins in the past however, with famous 1-4 and 0-3 wins at Old Trafford in the last 10 years, and always cherish wins against the Red Devils when good days for them come along.
All-in-all, we’re set for a great game between the two rivals once again. Liverpool vs Manchester United is live on Sky Sports 1 in England at 2:05pm British time.
By Ben Kelly – @benkelly_10
