Manchester United were for the second time this season forced to share the spoils with Liverpool: the game ending in a one-all draw this time round at Old Trafford.
The hosts found themselves in a precarious back foot after a blatant handball by Paul Pogba from a corner, one that was thoroughly punished when James Milner converted from the spot-kick.
With the Old Trafford faithful in full voice providing the much needed lift, both Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan came erringly close to grabbing the equalizer: but it was the Swede that for the umpteenth time saved United with a reflexive header after Marouane Fellaini’s effort ricochet off the crossbar.
Blissful Pogba
For all countless photo shoot sessions and the media frenzy that surrounded the release of #Pogba, the first ever Twitter emoji for a footballer, it was only a matter of time before the pressure got to the France international.
Pogba had a mare on what was quite rightly his worst performance since rejoining the club in the summer.
The 23-year old eccentrically crumbled under pressure, overdoing it on numerous occasions that either gave the ball away or led to concession of a foul.
Considering Michael Carrick was blown out of pace in midfield, Pogba showcased a blissful performance- one he would wish to forget.
Rue missed chances
Several chances went begging despite waves of attack by Jose Mourinho’s charges, more so in the second half.
Nonetheless, it was more inclined to Simon Mignolet’s brilliant display between the sticks rather than the Red Devil’s ineptitude - another reason for Manchester United supporters to question why every bang average goalkeeper turns to a peak Gianluigi Buffon every time they come to Old Trafford.
Unbeaten run lives
United currently hold the longest unbeaten run in Europe’s top five Leagues after Real Madrid suffered a shock defeat against Sevilla, following a last gasp winner by Stevan Jovetic.
Although they were chasing the game for the most part, United will feel it was a case of two points lost, especially after Manchester City’s 4-0 hammering at Goodison Park.
The draw still leaves them sixth on the log with 40 points, four points behind fourth placed Arsenal and a whopping 12 points behind leaders Chelsea.
Written by Brian Humphrey
Follow Brian on Twitter @brihum
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