United Beat Stoke, but Chelsea are Champions

Despite Manchester United’s 4-0 win over Stoke City, Chelsea finished the season as Premier League Champions by way of their 8-0 demolition of Wigan. So yes the win felt a lot like a loss, although I have to admit I was very proud of the way United played. When United came out for the second half they must have known that the title was Chelsea’s, with Chelsea leading a ten man Wigan 2-0 at the half, but they still came out and played a very good second half. They played well and created several chances, scoring twice, when they easily could have given up and just limped to the finish line. Instead they gave the supporters the performance that they deserved. Manchester United showed real class in losing that Chelsea failed to show in victory with Drogba’s petulance.

The Manchester United match itself was quite an odd one, with United dominating and scoring goals with ease, but clearly disheartened. It was nice to see players like Van Der Sar, Nani, Giggs and Scholes shine for one last time this season. Especially Paul Scholes who has been absolutely pivotal in the last few weeks as United came very close to rejuvinating their title run. Scholes has been composed, yet energitic, influential and brilliant over the past four weeks. This year has been one of his best for Manchester United since he first came to the club.

I also wanted to give a shoot-out to MUST and their anti-Glazer protests at the match which were civilized, well-done, and hopefully will have some sort of effect this summer on the Red Knights-Glazer situation. The supporters did their job for the players on the pitch as well, despite obviously being as upset as the players during the match they continued to give their support. It was also quite the trip down memory lane hearing the supporters sing “Viva Ronaldo” and “That Boy Ronaldo” again.

I was glad to see Park score the final goal of the season after he came up massive in several situations throughout the season. Especially against AC Milan and Liverpool. Hopefully he will stay next season and is major part of Sir Alex’s plan for the next little while.

It was too bad the season ended on such a low point for Manchester United, but it was an enjoyable season to watch with plenty of highs and lows so as Mourinho would say “Chin up boys and girls”.