Saturday 27 October 2012

Chelsea v/s Manchester United: Player Battles at The bridge

18 Yard Box looks at how the players will be pitched against each other when it comes to one of the most volatile clashes of the season.

Chelsea takes on Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in what promises to be a title deciding encounter. Second placed United would plan a surprise away win at League leaders and cut the lead at the top to just one point. Chelsea on the other hand would like to continue their winning ways and extend the lead at the top to seven points in a clash which is described as a 6-pointer. Matches are often defined by players and rivalries and this particular clash is nothing short of it.





18 Yard Box looks at the three key clashes which can make or break any team’s chances of victory.

 Patrice Evra V/S Ashley Cole
Fans will witness the epic battle between two of the most experienced left backs in the Premier League. Given United’s current trend of playing only one winger, Patrice Evra will be expected to ply his trade on the left flank and provide Van Persie and co. with much needed service. The greatest danger for United in pushing Evra forward is being caught out of position which will be openly exploited by Juan Mata.

Ashley Cole’s speed and guile has often been a source of inspiration for Chelsea in the past and the Blues will expect their veteran full back to take advantage of United’s inexperienced Rafael.  He will also have to contend with the quick and physical game of Antonio Valencia while defending. Both players are potential game changers in the context of this match. It will be interesting to see who will have greater impact on this game.

We can expect Cole to perform better than Evra as the United player is short of form and confidence.



David Luiz V/S Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney has found his scoring form with 2 brilliant goals against Stoke city. Rooney plays in a more central role behind the 2 strikers following the arrival of Dutchman Robin van Persie but the said formation is flexible with the 2 main forwards drifting towards the wings. He has played a major role in all of United’s games so far this season and has been a driving force for his team while going forward. He will be up against Chelsea’s Brazilian defender David Luiz who has been fairly consistent at the back in the absence of John Terry. United are more than aware of Luiz’s goal scoring ability as was seen in the same fixture 2 seasons ago. This duel between two feisty players will be a treat to watch and Rooney can edge it if he plays the ball quick enough.



 Gary Cahill V/S Robin Van Persie
 
After scoring a memorable hat-trick for Arsenal last season at this very ground, Robin van Persie returns with the same form and perhaps a more efficient team to haunt the Chelsea defense. Having scored 6 goals in 6 games for his new team, Robin van Persie will look to add more goals to his tally against a slightly less experienced defensive partnership of Luiz and Cahill.

Gary Cahill has answered his critics and ably replaced John Terry in the squad. His performances at back have won him praise from many pundit and past players. He also displayed his ability going forward with solid volley against Tottenham last week. This one will be a one to watch out for.

The Dutch striker can have his say against a slightly inexperienced Cahill


Written By,
Pranav Shenoy

Pranav is an Editor and a Writer for 18 Yard Box.


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