3 goals in 3D - one against

Arsenal 1-3 United
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 60,091

Arsenal have a history of appearing in first of new communications. First on the radio in 1927, first on Tv in the 1930's when there were only a hundred or so receivers around London. Now the first to be part of Sky Tv's 3D pilot transmission to several selected pubs.

United didn't disappoint today. Watching in old school 2D colour in the living room it was a joy to see. Deadly on the breakaway and commanding in mid-field the title race is on. Arsenal are no lightweights and as Fergie said in the post match interview. "I hope they go to Chelsea next week and batter them".

Again another good performance from Nani. Contrast his performance with Arshavin of Arsenal who went for goal and glory everytime instead of passing the ball to a better positioned player.

Poor old Pompey got beaten 2-0 by Manchester City today, and they have to return to Manchester next Saturday for a Saturday afternoon at Old Trafford. Let's hope it's another 3 points for the reds...

Rooney 4 Tigers 0

United 4-0 Hull City
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 73,933

The headlines and the match ball go to Wayne Rooney. Not that you know that when you turn up at Old Trafford. It is just another Saturday afternoon but joy of joys a 3 o'clock kick-off. A re-arranged fixture as both teams do not have any FA Cup commitments until 2011. It's a match you know you should win easily and feel relaxed about it.

It started well. Eight minutes in Scholes fires a rocket, Myhill the Hull keeper parries and Rooney pops it home. At times when a goal is scored early I usually think of that great game United had against Roma and went on to score seven. It didn't happen today the floodgates didn't open. They rarely do. Lots of possession, corners and attempts at a goal but nothing to show. At 80 minutes it is still not safe, sitting on a one goal lead means the opposition are still in with a chance. Why hasn't the game been put away? Hull are here to nick a point with Mr.Brown their manager prowling the technical area all afternoon.

Maybe Fergie was thinking the same and as usual made his 70th minute substitutions. So to liven up our afternoon we get three goals in the last ten minutes. Hull were sunk when the second went in and as teams sometimes do went into fatigue drive.

Man of the match for me was Nani. He actually played as a team member and not the scowling show boater he often treats us to. I never thought I'd be saying Nani praises.

Enjoying the anti-Glazer protests and maybe they'll increase over the next few games. The tossers ain't going to sell up just yet but they ain't going to be popular in their lifetime. Different tactics by the stewards this week. They surrounded the pitch near the end, must have been 120 yellow jacket muppets down there expecting an invasion on fans. That might happen on Wednesday. So a stadium singing Hate Glazer songs, a couple of banners unfurled, and fans with yellow and green scarfs. It's a start.

A game of 70 and 20

United 3-0 Burnley
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,120

It was good to walk on solid tarmac to the stadium after two weeks of snow and ice. Even considered going the "tourist route" up Warwick Road with the flag sellers and other assorted cheap merchandise stalls. But in the end kept to the back way over the footbridge [the author is referring to the Stretford End bridge built for the 1966 World Cup ].

First half was a blend of frustration and tedium. Plenty of getting the ball into the box only to fluff it high or safely into the defenders. As ever you hope for a blistering half time team talk and the first goal that will open the match.

The dull 70 minutes ended with Berbatov scoring after missing an earlier sitter. In the last 20 minutes we got 3 goals down in front of us and an anti-Glazer protest behind us.

The match reports are available elsewhere. Cool first goal by Diouf on his first appearance at Old Trafford. You always wish there will be a new big goalscorer on the team sheet. When i saw the back flips after he scored i knew i'd seen this sort of promise before just like Nani - in yellow boots today but what else just face pulling when it doesn't go right. It usually fizzles out to showmanship. But we'll see, let's give the benefit.

What you won't read is the crowd singing anti-Glazer songs. Not heard these for four years at Old Trafford. Has everybody been reading the business section of the papers? Essentially you sell your best player for 80 million quid to pay off the banks and not make a massive loss.

Best quote of the day whilst walking through the crowd. It's about the millionaire owners of the club... "Do they live here or in London?" reply from his mate "They live in Florida you muppet". What does that tell you? Nobody will care if the results are okeh and the trophies are won. But underneath there is resentment and trouble to be readily focused at the leaches in shiny suits.

Frozen point from Birmingham

Birmingham City 1-1 United
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 28,907
That cut above the rest that makes you champions has left the Reds. Looking very ordinary and lacking luck and a clinical finish that sees off the opposition. Birmingham had one attack in the first half and score. In the second half they score another in their own net. The liner might flag for offside but an own goal cannot be offside, simple as that.

Diouf makes his debut for the last ten minutes but he hardly gets a look in. Fletcher gets sent off which doesn't help.

Got a bit of a problem with the Sky Box with the picture freezing. It's always at crucial moments and there is no pattern to it. Watched the Milan v. Genoa game the other night and the picture is perfect. Now resigned myself to frustrations with what's happening on the pitch and what's happening to the Tv reception. Glad when it was all over.

Coasting in the cold

United 5-0 Wigan Athletic
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 74,560

1) Last match attended of 2009
2) 36th game of the 2009/10 season, 71 matches in 2009 year.
3) It was bitterly cold, wind-chill taking temperature to about minus 2C.
4) Too many late nights, too much drinking to write anything sensible
5) Scorers :- Rooney 28, Carrick 32, Rafael Da Silva 45, Berbatov 50, Valencia 75
6) I think 7-2 would reflect the match with a better score

United in 2nd gear at the KC Stadium

Hull City 1-3 United
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 24,627
Not the most convincing win but after watching some recent poor efforts then it was a welcome three points. Both sides threatened to score half a dozen times, it's just that Hull squandered their chances and United have Wayne Rooney who never ever gives up.

Bit of relief when United did score before half time. Isn't the rule that when we score first we win the match. But overall a performance let down by some woeful passing.

Spent nearly a whole afternoon watching football on Tv. Saw Arsenal wrap up Villa with 3 goals to be back in contention for the title. At the same time delved into S4c (Sky channel 134) to watch some Welsh League football. It's about Blue Square North level except the champions get a couple of games of European football as the prize. One of the options is to have Welsh commentary with English subtitles - with a bit of imagination you feel you are in foreign climes.

So onto the Wigan match at home on Wednesday. I'll be wrapping up as it's predicted to be cold, just hope United can wrap up the last game of 2009 without some of the sloppy mistakes of today.

Bad Day At The Cottage

Fulham 3-0 United
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 25,700
Not really enjoying this season. There is still a lot to look forward to, but the last three months have been a let down. As United were away had planned to go and see Salford City v. Colwyn Bay, and follow the fixture at Craven Cottage on updates to the mobile phone.

By 1130h in the morning the intelligence revealed that nearly all matches below Division One level were postponed. Oh well, let's see if BBC Radio5 will bring good cheer to the snow surrounded homestead.

Well it didn't. A goal down is nothing but two down is a struggle if you're not mounting any credible attacking play. So nothing and as a fan you're now waiting for the bounce back at Hull

Turn the radio off at the end, didn't bother watching the highlights, made dinner. Move on to the next fixture it is all you can do. So where to go on Boxing Day - go and see City play Stoke (tickets on general sale and pitch is weather proof) or go see FC United away in Ashton and they arn't winning many matches either.

Back on Track against a Wolves XI

United 3-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 73,709
Bit of a shock news that Wolves changed all the outfield players from those who won at Spurs at the weekend. Clearly they hadn't come for the points but just fulfill the fixture. Burnley visit Molineux on Saturday. That old managerial tactic to beat the clubs near the wrong of the table, anything else is a bonus. Then you won't get relegated. We'll see in May if it paid off.

For the first time in years I had to miss a big game thru illness. That didn't stop me finding one of those dodgy web streaming thingies and retiring to the internet cinema room. Having a 32" (80cm) Tv playing video from a laptop is not cinema but it's very comfortable. It has a no smoking policy and snacks for half time are available in the foyer.

United played enough to get a comfortable win. You'd like to see a bagful of goals but all credit to Wolves for making a game of it. Still have concerns about the defence when communication breaks down. Fortunately Vidic is in there, a player of power, skill and not feared to use some physical contact. Maybe it was the delusions of my flu virus but I'm sure I heard the ball come off his head like a cannon for the second goal.

At the end of the game the cameras caught pictures of the rain coming down as everyone stomped off to the tunnel. It wasn't raining outside home, that's only 5 kms away from Old Trafford. Can never get my head around the localised weather. Can't get my head around how inconsistent Premiership teams are this season. All to play for....

Villa composed United flustered

United 0-1 Aston Villa
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,130
When you watch a game sometimes you know it's not going to be your day. Villa turned up with their game plan and it worked through sheer hard work. All credit to them. United created chances but the ball refused to hit the back of the net. Hitting the bar, cleared off the line, shots scuffed and wasted high balls into the box for the Villa defence to easily clear.

Now when you turn up to the ground with a bout of mild flu and lots of catarrah it doesn't make for a great early evening. I can understand doctors banning their patients from watching football as it does increase the heart rate. It also stretches your neck muscles, as time and time again I found myself staring at the roof in exasperation at another foiled goal attempt.

It was a day of odd results with Chelsea drawing 3-3 with Everton, and Spurs losing at home 0-1 to Wolves. The chance to get level on points with Chelsea was squandered. Oh well, it's a long gruelling season. Back here on Tuesday when hopefully I'm fully match fit and maybe United will turn on the style and put away a few of those chances they can create.

Rooney is Class

Portsmouth 1-4 United
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 20,482

You earn enough money to buy a factory that makes footballs but you'd rather be awarded the match ball for scoring a hat trick. It's a bit of a symbolic act as there are now many balls used in a match and players don't wear hats either. Glad I didn't listen to this one on the radio. Watching the highlights there were a lot of chances for Portsmouth in the first half - enough to make you nervous for a win.

Rooney 25 (penalty); Boateng (penalty for Portsmouth) 32, Rooney 48, Rooney 54 (another penalty), Giggs 87 (his 100th goal in the Premier League)

Three goals in the rain

United 3-0 Everton
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,169

A couple of weeks off from Premiership football whilst the international games were played. So come the Saturday, a 1730h kick off, knowing how the other teams have done, and knowing you have a couple of kilometres to walk in ceaseless rain, off we go.....Football fills a big part in a fans life but there are better things to do on wet Saturday evening.

Not a memorable game. One of those when you know United are going to score but how long before it happens? When the tally reached three you knew it was all over, but a true fan stays to end, just in case there is something in injury time.

Our neighbours in the seats to our left didn't make an appearance for the first 25 minutes. We thought they'd must be sat at home watching it on Tv. Not that we know if they have Sky or ESPN? Turned out they were in the pub, and 15 minutes before kick off realised they had left their tickets at home. Look it could happen to anyone, I dread being in front of the turnstile desperately searching every pocket to find the bit of plastic that lets you through.

Got a good view of Carrick's goal from 18 yards out. Nice inside of the right boot placed into the bottom far corner. How many times have I seen those chances ballooned over the bar.

Trudge home but the rain has stopped and how only five points behind Chelsea. At least we'll be home for 2000h not too damp and not down hearted.

Did we expect anything from the Bridge?

Chelsea 1-0 United
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 41,836; Sky Sports 1
We'd already been written off by the pundits before the match based on recent form and a history of going to Stamford Bridge and coming away with nothing.

Now rarely do I criticise referees but today some of the decisions were a little suspect. But that's football and when Chelsea got their goal from the result of a free-kick that was one of those decisions the game was won. This was never going to be a goal-fest.

But a good display by the Reds, still pressing right to the end, and a tireless effort from Wayne Rooney. Actually loosing at Stamford Bridge is never that bad and doesn't end the title challenge.

Onward to the next match which is in two weeks. That's due to another interruption to the Premiership for some pointless England friendly. A game against Brazil in the middle east for the global Tv audience and a pot of money for the two associations.

Made it hard work

United 2-0 Blackburn Rovers
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 74,658
Here's me waiting all day for a sackful of goals, thinking Blackburn would be stricken with swine flu and it would a five nil romp like Chelsea did last week over them. No it was heavy going as the last pass usually in the box went astray.

Nil-nil at half time so eventually when the goals did come they were at our end. No point in doing a match report just to say two well taken goals by Berbatov and Rooney. Unfortunately the other chances weren't well taken. How Obertan missed one from six yards we don't know? But we're a forgiving lot for someone making his first appearance at Old Trafford. I'm sure the goals will come, I've been well impressed with his speed and skill. My man of the match is Valencia for a hundred per cent effort throughout the game.

As it was a 1730h kick off we decided to check out the city centre before hand. The crowds in town are a nightmare but with our local knowledge we cut through the back streets of the Northern Quarter for some mid-afternoon lunch at Earth Cafe. Then later up to platforn 14 at Piccadilly station to get the train direct to Old Trafford. It's not a well known service but one minute you're in town and ten minutes later you are right next to the main stand at the ground. If you're checking it out on the web - there are only three trains there and back on match days and they are only announced a couple of days before hand.

So not the best day's football but the right result. Think I enjoyed the chocolate cake at half time more than the first half. A good move by the Biffa herself getting a take out from the cafe. Note to diary must get the half time match snacks back on track - we used to have filled bagels, coffee and a hip flask.

Admission: £37, train ticket £3.20 (only £3.30 return), snacks £3. Weather - calm, dry, 15 degrees, full moon.

Nothing at Anfield

Liverpool 2-0 United
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 44,188
This match had been hyped up as massive all week. The talk is played out as a series of pantomime press conferences. But it's worn thin for me. After last season's two defeats by Liverpool and still winning the Premiership in truth it's just part of the season. Probably rue not picking up the points at Burnley or only drawing with Sunderland at home when it comes the wire in April. As for Benitez under pressure - well seven defeats is pressure not a blip of four. The owners are under more pressure looking glum in the best seats wondering why this game doesn't have touch downs and hot dog concessions.

On the day Liverpool were the better team. Hardly got a look in for the second half apart form Valencia hitting the bar. The score line flatters the match as United threw everything forward to get the equaliser at the end and got caught with no defenders. At which point I turned off the Tv, issued a news blackout and stomped off to the local shops for some bits and pieces.

Should have won easily

United 2-1 Bolton Wanderers
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,103
At last a resumption of the Premier League. Feel like it's been months away, and I've been to four other matches in the meantime.

From the start United put the pressure on and we're thinking it'll be four goals this afternoon. The chances came and went. But two nil up at half time and still looking forward to a blitz down at our end. But credit to Bolton they came back into it, pulled one back after a previous attempt was disallowed.

Added time at Old Trafford is apparently a bit controversial. There were four minutes today, more like five. But it can work against you as you hang on for the win. Witnessed some clever time wasting by Ryan Giggs. Straight from the text book, taking the ball up to the corner flag for two minutes and inviting Bolton to put the ball into touch. Other teams should note how it's done. Doesn't make for pretty football though.

Before then in the last minutes there was a spell when United had no possession. Sat deep in defence and just hoofing back to the opposition. It doesn't make it comfortable if your watching your three points under siege.

The biggest cheer came when the Liverpool result was announced at the end of the match - good old Sunderland winning. So in all not a fire cracker of game, but top of the league and not playing that well.

Poor Performance

United 2-2 Sunderland
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,114
This was a game I expected to be won by a couple of goals. Essentially very lucky to get even a point. Sunderland came and played two up front, and as we saw had a good defence with height to win the headers. United were out of sorts. No movement off the ball. Standing around waiting for a pass that never arrived. Worse for me is when a player is out on the wings with three opponents around him then and go and help out and collect a short pass.

Two bright spells in the second half when Anderson came on and Berbatov got stuck in. But overall Sunderland were the better team on the pitch. As for Foster in nets getting a bit concerned with his presence in the box. They might teach shot stopping and taking high crosses at goalie school but you need confidence and skills to deal with balls at the edge of the penalty area. Sometimes you have to leave your area to deal with an underhit back pass. Great goalkeepers use the full box and beyond and shout at the defence.

The dying minutes were the best in the whole game. Just equalised by an own goal after putting the defence under a barrage of shots and crosses. I think it was four successive corners as United pressed for a winner. If it had gone in the reports would read a lot different and two points wouldn't have been thrown away.

Oh well, an off day on the park. We stomped the 23 minutes walk back to the car analysing what went wrong. A bright full moon in the dark evening sky and the wind had stopped.

A Grand Derby Day

United 4-3 Manchester City
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,066

End of the derby game from biffadigital on Vimeo.

I climbed up the staircase to the seating area. The lighting barely reaches the steps as you follow the feet in front of you. Thinking this is just like a film. We've had the buzz that it's Derby Day - cue young kids outside the sweet shop saying such lines. The rushing as fans scurry to their designated entrance thus setting the scene for the big match. What was to follow couldn't have been scripted.

One up in 2 minutes it's going so well. Then it's dashed by an equaliser. Back to elation, dashed, more elation and just when you are expecting a happy ending it is thrown away. It's 3-3, and am getting the excuses ready and maybe it was a fair result. But the City supporters were treating this like a victory. Seething on my feet and there is the moment in the film when it goes into slow motion as the four minutes is added to time. Well I never expected the little prince in a no.7 shirt to slot another goal in.

We had the baddie on the pitch who got booed with every touch - Carlos Tevez a hero in May, and very unpopular in a light blue shirt. I had ringing ears with the cheering after Rooney's first goal on 5 minutes. An unbelievable let off when Tevez hit the post in front of us in the first half. Two goals from that Scottish lad Fletcher - not the most prolific scorer but he has a knack of popping his head onto the ball in crucial games. We even got a fan running on the pitch just before the end. Removed by four stewards and banned for life no doubt.

Video is the last few seconds of please blow that whistle. Followed by singing and whooping the win. I'll remember this game for years, there ain't many I can remember, but there will be space in fuzzy brain for Michael Owen running behind the nets down to the corner flag with the biggest grin on his face. Roll credits, walk of through the thronging streets happy.

United's class shows thru

Tottenham Hotspur 1-3 United
Premiership 2009/10; Att: 35,785
This was a classic game in the long history of Spurs encounters. It's got everything. Attacking football and two wily old foxes of Sir Alex and Old Harry directing operations.

What we got
a) ridiculously early goal by Defoe whilst United's defence were sorting themselves out. An over head kick as well.
a) Ryan Giggs scores a curler from a free kick. Old time magic.
b) Anderson scores from open play for the first time. Left foot into the right corner. He scored the other day with the Reserves but this was on the big stage.
c) Paul Scholes gets sent off. 15 years of late and clumsy tackles. By now you just accept that it's too late to change.
d) Wayne Rooney - pure class, down to 10 men then beat off two defenders and nutmeg the keeper.

Well happy with the result and with the ESPN coverage. Did anyone notice the little red dot under the team that had a player sent off?

Top Result Over Arsenal

United 2-1 Arsenal
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,095

The Football Crowd After Match from biffadigital on Vimeo.

What a match! The Premiership at its best. What better than having two attacking teams going all out for all the points. Good to get back to Old Trafford. I was a bit out of sorts for the previous game this season against Birmingham City.

Overall I thought United had a bit of luck with them to get this result. A goal down at half time. The warning signs were there when Ashevan had an earlier effort just wide. The second time he didn't miss. We were hoping Owen would come on so we could see which player was the smallest in height.

Max Beesley the actor came on at half time to make the cash draw. He knows how to work a crowd, predicting a 2-1 for United. Cheers from the stands.

A penalty for Rooney in front of the Stretford End. Bit of a tension build up, but no messing with the place and power of a shot. Then the comedy moment when a beautiful own goal header by Diaby. My jaw dropped and i stood stunned. Not until the ref signalled a goal did I join in the jumping and cheering. I've seen own goals before but not one as stunning as this when there are no opposition players around you.

Poor old Wenger got himself sent off right at the end. What was that about? Apparently kicking a plastic water bottle. Sometimes officialdom is very petty.

Went home with a springy step looking forward to Match of The Day. Managed to see it down The Marble after a couple of pints of their new seasonal beer called "Summer". Days like this are brilliant. Digging my spuds up on the allotment, watching my other favourite team in the other sports section - Netherlands Women's Hockey beat Germany 3-1 for the Euro Championship on streaming video, then beating the mighty Arsenal in the early evening, and a night out drinking... boozer.

W-L-W-? It's Arsenal next

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Even before the last Bank Holiday of the summer a big game sneaks upon on the fixtures. Arsenal come back to Old Trafford just three months after the last visit. So basically you have one of the four Premiership 22-carat games too early in the season....

Can't put a bet on this one. I'll just turn up, sing and hope for the best. After a win, a lost and a win by United it's the standard patchy start. Whilst Arsenal have defied the journalists doom predictions. They've not spent enough but surprise, surprise are playing too bloody good for my liking...What do they know? What do I know? I wasn't optimistic before the Champions League Semi-Final clash at the Emirates and that ended with United stunning the Gunners.

I shot the video above at the last home game of last season. No football it's the flag and shirt sellers outside. The game was an unremarkable 0-0. I don't think it will be unremarkable on Saturday. Okeh I'll go for a hard fought 1-0 United win.

Underway with a win

United 1-0 Birmingham City
Premiership 2009/10; attendance 75,061
You wait two and a half months for another Premiership game and it's not the razzmatazz you've built it up to in your head. Playing on a Sunday is just a minor irritation. It's not being match fit, but there is no way I'm going to miss the first game of the season, just need to walk a bit slower to the game.

The formation was a bit unfamiliar missing Ferdinand, Vidic and Carrick but nothing to worry about. If I had come away from this game having seen a few goals I would have been happy. But it was a job done, three points in the bag and on to the next one.

The media pressure on United to perform outstandingly is not shining on Old Trafford at the moment. Winning four English titles in a row has never been done before. So all the guff is about Liverpool, City and Chelsea with something to prove.

Best players for me were Giggs coming on in the second half which improved Valencia's game after his quiet first half. Also Ben Foster who kept a clean sheet when the defence was caught by Birmingham attacks. Joe Hart in nets for for the visitors played a blinder unfortunately. Got a bit of stick from the Stretford End, usual stuff "City reject" etc, but denied Michael Owen in a one on one right at the end. Some people find it hard to get their heads that the little chap in the No.7 red shirt is one of our players. Though I did spot a fair few fans with new replica version shirts with his name on the back.

Got myself home to bed. The Biffa herself woke me to say that Spurs had beaten Liverpool 2-1. I then recovered enough to eat a plate of mash and ketchup and watch "Countryfile".

The Monday before Premiership starts

The best thing about the Monday before the Premiership season starts is getting hold of a copy of the Season Guide in a copy of The Guardian. Managed not to buy it and get the printed on paper version. Top tip, actually know people who have absolutely no interest in football.

The best bit is the comical rundown of all the teams in the top flight. Sample below

"If a fan of Manchester United had three wishes...
1. Liverpool to get relegated

2 Michael Owen to score the winner at Anfield to clinch the title and relegate Liverpool before kissing the badge and flicking a V at the Kop

3 Electric cars, bio fuels and wind farms make oil production redundant, thus bankrupting Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed al-Nahyan."

Not far off the mark, Everton become the biggest club on Merseyside and the planet is saved from global warming...

Online version

Wrapped in Hull

Hull City 0-1 United
Premiership 2008/9; attendance 24,945
I don't think anyone can complain about the team selection as the result said it all. The results at all the clubs facing relegation said it all - everyone lost. A cracking 20 yard shot by Darron Gibson won the match. He had a good game. It was an unfamiliar line-up but it all looked oh so comfortable. De Laet who made his debut put in a good effort, better than when I've seen him in the Reserves.

Kuszczak, Rafael Da Silva (Eckersley 60), Neville, Brown, De Laet (Possebon 79), Nani, Fletcher, Gibson, Welbeck (Tosic 87), Martin, Macheda.

From this expect some commentator on Wednesday's big night in Rome to say "eleven changes from Sunday". Also got my wish that Sunderland and Hull City stay up.

Giraffe felled by Red Devil

You can always rely on a local newspaper coming up with a gem of a non-story. Giraffe felled by Red Devil is in that category. This is a large toy giraffe that got damaged by an exuberant United fan going home from the Arsenal match. I don't know the giraffe personally but I've seen him many times outside the toy shop on Manchester Road. Police called, no arrests, free publicity. From the South Manchester Reporter 21st May.

Meanwhile it's a bank holiday weekend and for once in the season don't have to fret about the title race.

Here's hoping Hull City and Sunderland stay up. That Burnley win the play-off on Monday and join the Premiership - if only for a season.

Last Game matters to Survivors

It's billed as Survival Sunday by the pay Tv companies. Four games for satellite viewers, and thankfully the result doesn't matter for us United fans. If previous last encounters that don't count are anything to go by then Hull City will be looking at three points. I'm thinking of West Ham last year, and an earlier Derby County. Earlier - I remember it was Jim Smith in charge of The Rams and they took three at Old Trafford. The United team had won the league and had their holiday cases packed.

Aston Villa v. Newcastle United - Sky Sports 1 / HD1
Hull City v. Man Utd - Sky Sports 3 / HD3
Sunderland v. Chelsea - Sky Sports 3 on Red Button
West Ham Utd v. Middlesbrough - Setanta Sports 1

Not bothered about United winning, but do want Sunderland to get something against Chelsea and stay up. Think I'd like Hull City to stay up too. They came to Old Trafford and it was a great game which we won 4-3. Do expect lots of moaning about United not fielding their best team, yeah, yeah, yeah!

So two hours on the sofa with snacks and beers watching the drama unravel.

Champions 18th time

United 0-0 Arsenal
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,468
Not the best game, few chances and cautious play against an Arsenal side who had a lot of possession especially in the second half. They didn't do much with it, but for the last ten minutes a bit concerned they might score and ruin the party.

Crowned Champions Again from biffadigital on Vimeo.

Surprise substitution of Tevez in the 67 minute. Didn't go down well the crowd, in fact loud booing. It was though it was a farewell wave to the everyone from Tevez. It had that look about it. Hope not, but it doesn't look like he'll be here next season.

Stayed for the presentation afterwards. You have 50 people dashing about the field with a jigsaw of pieces to build a podium, a sheep pen for the press photographers, and the firework cannons. 15 minutes later the team returned for the cheering and fanfare.

It's all a bit of an anti-climax, and a relief that the season is over. But Champions again, three successive, 18 in total...in years to come we'll look back at this as the glory days.

Game 70 - this season, that's my personal achievement. Admission £35.

Just a point to the winning post

Wigan Athletic 1-2 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 21,286
What a tough game. Wigan didn't make it easy, United didn't make it easy either with few shots on target. But what a win. The man from Argentina came on to do a fantastic back kick and equalise. Carrick picked his spot in the 86th minute.

At one point I was pacing around the house instead of watching the Tv the tension having kicked in. So bring on Saturday and the early doors Arsenal match. Never been to a game where a team actually wins the title. Hopefully my dreams will come true and the celebrations will follow.

Reds win the derby

United 2-0 Manchester City
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,464

Not the best derby match but a nice three points, only four more needed to win this league. Two great goals. Another spectacular free kick special from Ronaldo that appeared to go through the wall. The other a well taken shot by Tevez. He ran to the centre of the main stand - it was a statement. We'll be sorry to see him leave, if they don't sort a contact out, and it looks very unlikely they will.

Second half and City have a lot posession but do nothing with it. Let's do the highlights not shown to Tv viewers. Saw Toscic going into the ground with a couple of mates. Don't think some of the people who stand around the celebs car park knew who he was. They should check some Reserves matches and see some of the future. A bit of comedy at half time with giant figures with blokes who couldn't run in them trying to score penalties - United won 3-2 on those. Plus some acrobatic girls doing acrobatic stuff. Would have been better if it wasn't at the far end. Darren Fletcher got on the song sheet. "There is only one Darren Fletcher". Not original but it's a start after all these seasons. A song about "Istanbul you're not going to go" for the benefit of the Bitters. Last ten minutes was the repeated refrain of "City are shit. And that's a fact". Not original but near the mark. Apart from Stephen Ireland and Shay Given most of their team are just over paid lightweights.

It feels like it has been a very long season. This was:
Game 69 for me, admission £35.

Easy at Riverside

Middlesbrough 0-2 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 33,767
Still eating my late breakfast when this game started at 1245h. It took a while for United to settle into a fine passing game. It got better after Giggs slotted a goal into the corner whilst the Boro defence were looking to the ref for some infringement. Nice one. Park put another away early in the second half and I eased back full stretch on the sofa. Thought that will go down well in Korea it was a well worked move. It would be nice to get a third just in case they pulled one back but no need. It was a comfortable win, didn't even realise Johnny Evans was on the pitch until near the end such was Boro's patchy attacking. United's away support could be heard throughout the match. Particularly liked "You're going down with the Shearer". I want Sunderland and Hull City to stay up.

Pressure on Liverpool, who are 6 points behind. My man of the match - Wayne Rooney, he's inspirational. Turned off the Tv and went out to enjoy the sunshine.

A team of two halves

United 5-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,458
What a game to go to. Seven goals and all at the far end. If Spurs hadn't insisted on swapping ends before the start they might have all been down at the Stretford End. I'd have done the same as it put United defending into sun. A touch of sloppy defending in the first half and your two nil down at the break. We're wondering if United will ever score a massive three goals to take the points. A dull twenty minutes mooching in front of your seat waiting for the second half.

Back in it with a Ronaldo penalty. Then back to the vigour, challenging and chasing to get the equaliser. The goals kept coming. I was in total disbelief. The view to the far end is a long away, away with my eyesight. It is not until you see the ref signal a goal and the liners flag has stayed down that you truely believe it is another goal.

What a happy crowd - six would have been nice but let's not get greedy. Singing and animated chatter as we crossed the bridge unlike last Wednesday's 2-0 win over Portsmouth. Just watched a fantastic come back - a team that played on fire if only for 45 minutes.

Got the points job done

United 2-0 Portsmouth
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 74,895
Not the most memorable match. Portsmouth chose to swap ends. You wonder why when sunshine and wind are not an issue. So Rooney slotted the first goal away, right in front of us in the Stretford End. We settle down to watch numerous chances on goal - counted eight possible good attempts, one was even headed off the line. Should be 4 up by now. Come second half get grumpy because I don't like 1-0. I like a two goal cushion for safety's sake. Not until Carrick comes go does the second go in. Looks like three points. "Are you watching Merseyside?" is the song. We'll they won't be viewing as it's not on the Tv tonight.

There was some kid in a brand new jester hat and a silly tooting horn sat not far away. I blame the parents. It might be his birthday treat but that's no respect for the game. This is not a yankee ra-ra sport this is real football. It might be dull sometimes, goals might be few, but wins are wins.

Some of the time my mind wandered off trying to remember the name of that player who did a season and went off to Burnley. Couldn't recall, the Biffa herself described him but we were still stumped. Later just about to cross the footbridge across the tracks "it's Chadwick" I said. "Luke Chadwick" the Biffa herself retorted. He plays for MK Dons now. You can look up his career on Wikipedia and his photos have improved with age.

So back here on Saturday against old Harry's mighty Spurs. Here's to another 3 points we hope. Can we get this season over with, win the league and have a glorious hot summer. Please.

Along comes 3 points

Sunderland 1-2 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 45,408

"The important thing is we have seven games left now and at this point, it is about cutting each game off as they come along." The reported comments of Sir Alex, I like the bit cutting each game off as though it was a big piece of pie...

Sat out in the warm sunshine to listen to this one. Hooked up the old valve radio on a long extension lead out into the garden. The radio doesn't do FM, only Medium and Long Waves and is marked in metres not kHz - thus radio 4 longwave is on 1600m not 200kHz - a piece of history that just about works.

It's funny how you visualise the goals from the radio commentary, and five hours later you watch the highlights on BBC1 Match of the Day, you've got it all wrong. Great glancing header from Paul Scholes not what you expect. A flick that looks like a rebound from Macheda for the second. Is he special? You are when you score another winner.

There is some consolation about the frail defence, only let in one today though, is that it affects other teams too. Liverpool having 3 put past them mid-week in the Champions League, and Chelsea slipping from 4-0 to 4-3 against Bolton Wanderers.

Not in optimistic mood about United's chances of getting past Porto on Wednesday. Not even optimistic about next Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Everton, or even going to Wigan for the game in the hand we've come to rely on. But as the boss says "it's about cutting off each game as it comes along"

Happy Ending but Nearly Nothing

United 3-2 Aston Villa
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,406
A must, must, win game but it nearly didn't come off. Nine to the line, every point needed to retain the Premiership. So we have this 1600h kick-off to look forward to all day. But you have most of the first choice players injured or suspended. Don't think about it just turn up and let's hope the team turns up too.

Instead of mooching around the house for hours we took ourselves off to the cinema across the Ship Canal from Old Trafford. It's situated in the Lowry Outlet Shopping Mall which supposedly sells designer clothing at bargain prices. So how come everyone in there is so badly dressed. Lumpy fashion victims having a day-out. We go and see "The Damned United". Great film but unfortunately you waste 25 minutes of your life watching adverts and trailers for Hollywood formula before it starts.

Let's get to the match. This game will be remembered for Federico Macheda coming on late as the debut sub and scoring an injury time winner. Brilliant curling goal. The other two by Ronaldo were pretty good too. I've seen those indirect free kicks given for a back pass to the goalie a few times. Never seen anyone score from one because it is too close to goal to get over masses of bodies. The second a late equaliser was such a slow subtle shot. I was watching it literally trickle into the bottom corner beyond reach.

But when Villa were 2-1 up it was a long twenty minutes looking defeat in the face. The defence looked very vunerable all match, Carrew from Villa looked even taller than he does on Tv, and you thought just where is our goal going to come from.

Interesting bits : Very, very lucky to take any points from the game. The 4th official announces 5 minutes added time - it always undermines the opposition. Just like the old days of standing, shouting and willing your team to one last gasp effort. Fortunately Macheda did the business in that second minute. I liked the way he ran into the crowd to see his family and friends. Also the half time entertainment of very young lads some too small for their kit having a small pitch kick about. It was in United v. Villa colours and we won that one 3-1 though I counted it as 4-2. The crowd loved it with big cheers.

Went home happy, could watch the highlights on Tv at 2225h, could face going to work the next day.

Fall at Fulham

Fulham 2-0 United Premiership 2008/9; attendance 25,652

Oh no I'm not used to this. Two consecutive defeats and to a team we've beaten twice this season. Listened to the Radio 5 Live commentary whilst we tidyed up our allotment. The first half didn't sound good. The second half sounded brighter with Rooney coming on. Having two players sent off - Scholes and Rooney wasn't a good outcome either.

Watched the highlights BBC1 Match of The Day to see were it all went wrong. Just stunned! Rubbish in the first half, frustrated in the second. Got two weeks off from all this with no fixture until April 5th. A couple of weeks ago we said United could afford to lose 3 games and still win the title. Well that's two of them. It's going to the wire and my nerves are in shreds already.

Grim day at the Park

United 1-4 Liverpool
Premiership 2008-9; attendance 75,569
You go to footie expecting a fortunate outcome. It wasn't that today. Early kick off and a goal up by 23 minutes and it all goes downhill. Didn't play particularly badly, maybe not sharp and sparky as could be. But some soft goals given away, and the defence was just outpaced. After the fourth went in during added time had to walk up the steps to the exit. First time I've left before the end of a game.

You just have to move onto the next game and put it behind you. Hopefully a week's rest will see a turnaround at Fulham next Saturday. That's footie, you don't win every game only you really liked to have won or drawn this one.

Great Win at Newcastle

Newcastle United 1-2 United
Premiership 2008/09 attendance 51,636
What a great win, now seven points ahead at the top of table with a game in hand and that's Portsmouth at home. The match was 25 minutes old before I tuned in. Got my kick-off time mixed up. Sometimes it's 2000h, and this was at 1945h. A shock to hear we're trailing 1-nil.

Must say I do enjoy radio commentary, especially BBC Radio FiveLive. We chose the AM broadcast instead of the crisp DAB alternative. Reception coming through big speakers with Sky Sports News on mute taking you round the games and the goal flashes. Call it a fusion of warm nostalgia coupled with modern digital.

The other point about radio is it's the fastest at delivering the match. The roars of the crowd tell you what happens before the commentator can say his words. The match sounded a thriller and was very tempted to nip to the pub and watch it on dodgy Albanian Tv - "it's on the foreign" as some bar staff refer to it. For the second half I opted for the streaming service to my laptop. Somebody was relaying it from far away on Sopcast. From very far away, it lagged two minutes behind the radio commentary.

When Berbatov got the winner I shouted to the Biffa herself "we're in front, Berba has just scored, come and watch it". Eventually it turned up on the streaming video.

If there is another game on the radio and not on UK Tv going to fire up my old valve radio - it does Medium & Long Wave and was made by Ferranti probably in the 1950's. Sat on the edge of the armchair, cup of tea, packets of biscuits that'll be Garibaldi and Ginger Nuts, willing your team to three more points.

To the few readers of this weblog I'm not going to do much in match reports in future - more what it's like to follow the footie. On a not so controversial point, is Wayne Rooney getting man-boobs? He took his short off at the end to reveal a figure hugging wind resistant red top and it looked like them to me. Anyway he's on fire at the moment and eats very sensible so it can't be?

Tight Edgy Win Over Rovers

United 2-1 Blackburn Rovers
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,000
Bit tired of people telling me the title is in the bag, and as I keep repeating you get your medals in May, and not in February. Today was a game that could easily have been lost or drawn. No team wins all their matches, football is like that. A 1730h kick off and just made it. You've had all day to get to Old Trafford, but fannying about, and it not being dark and cold put me into an afternoon of pleasant spring.

It should have been easy, but Rovers came with the determination to attack and tackle, bit like the Hull game earlier in the season. It was 1-1 at half time. After the break we got to saw Ronaldo's free kick come towards us and hit the back of the net. Supurb! But fumbles in defence at the far end made it all shakey again. It brought the crowd to life, urging United to win, and brought Fergie down to the touchline. Clearly he didn't like it either. Bring on Vidic to shore up the defence and bring on Tevez to run Rovers ragged. He obviousy I agreed with my selection. Later Giggs came on - still that inspiring determination to tackle, run, and win a match even if it's only for 10 minutes.

Got home at 2000h knowing I'd seen one of the hardest fought wins of the campaign. Big match on Tuesday in Milan.

Imperial Victory over Fulham

United 3-0 Fulham
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,437

Another visit to Old Trafford, this time with my old mate Colin, the Biffa is still away in that Londonshire. He got a chippy tea on the way. Met Les walking down, he's a big FC United fan now so he'll only be going if he has a free ticket. He has - how does he do it?

Fulham must have won the toss of the coin and opted to swap ends before kick-off. Why? No sun, no wind, no slope. Don't usually like that. But any bad omens were cast aside when Paul Scholes scored after about 23 minutes. What a rocket, 25 yards out, a pass back from a corner. Oh, the keeper has saved it, he got down fast enough. But a second later it was in the back of the net, and we're cheering.

A very comfortable game. United dominated with superb passing and barely in second gear. Rooney came on as a sub, after an hour. Looks like he's recovered from his layoff by scoring a couple of minutes later. After that the game ran through its motions. The points in the bag. Even considered going home early, which I've never done, but lots of others took that option.

Half time is still very boring. Watched the sprinklers wetting the grass, saw Denis Irwin make the half time draw. He got a massive cheer and applause. You used to win a thousand pounds, now you get a signed shirt. Low cost prize but you'd still take it if you're a fan. Guess they know that and pocket the money. That's all in the picture above.

Back on Saturday for more of the same. Another three points we hope from yet another team who make up the numbers in this league.

Game 41 this season, admission £35, cup of hot chocolate £1.60 - it's more refined sugar than cocoa.

Giggs goal is brilliant

West Ham United 0-1 United
Premiership 2008/9; attendance 34,958
It's pressure on when you want the three points and have to play your game last. After seeing the last bit of the Portsmouth game and Liverpool take all three points you really need that win to go back on top. Dreadful shambles of a Portsmouth defence in that match, and the manager will get the blame.

So fill in the day with a long way round walk to the shops for your bits of groceries, tidy up the garden and get cold hands, then settle down to watch Sky Sports with a mug of hot tea. Oh we know how to live. I know why fans have alcohol before a game it settles the nerves, think I'll have to sack pre-match mild stimulants. Don't like the games at the Boleyn Ground it's not a lucky venue.

The best bit was Giggs goal. It might be his last season but he tricked two defenders as he approached the penalty area. Then fooled everyone into expecting a cross, only for it to bobble into the far right bottom corner. One of the best goals I've seen on Tv. Vintage stuff.

Good effort all round by the team. Even witnessed Berbatov track back to defend, even do a bit of chasing the ball. The last ten minutes was trying to keep that one goal lead - didn't look desperate but you know one slip up late on gives you just a draw.

I want to see West Ham at least get to the UEFA Cup next season because it is Gianfranco Zola in charge. A tough job at that club on a tight budget. Nice to see Tevez get a round of applause from the West Ham fans as he left the field. Wonder if he'd get the same if he leaves Old Trafford? Why is he still on some strange loan deal?

Another one in the bag

United 1-0 Everton
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,399
There is a predictability about these games. United need three points to stay at the top of the table, the opposition turn up to salvage a draw. So it's the brothers Neville as the respective captains - good old Gary in the red shirt, and Phil who got a big cheer when his name was read out in the blue shirt. That's got potential for a trivia question. After that it was down to attacking business.

Got a bit distracted by the new clocks & scoreboard at the ground. It's the same piece of electronics except it now says the sponsor. That's Hublot who make watches that cost a few thousand GBP and upwards to the price of car. But the time is no longer a 17:30 kick off in the 24 hour system it's now 5:30 on the board - don't approve. Then you have a clock counting down in seconds from 45:00. So at 6:11 (that's PM) there are only 6 mins 11 seconds left to play. My brain was running through all the combinations of morning, evening starts, extra time of how many times it would happen in a match.

Snapped out of that when the ref awarded a penalty for a foul on Carrick. Ronaldo scored. Carrick was also fouled in the second half down at our end. Looked like a clear cut penalty from row 8, but the ref wasn't giving two spot kicks in one match to the same player.

A good performance from the team, Carrick was my man of the match, I've changed my tune from last season when I had him on a train out of here. Tim Howard in nets for Everton played exceptionally well. Back here for the game against Fulham in a few weeks for another must win battle and that annoying clock.

Game 44 (this season) or Game 9 this year. Cost £35 - brought our own confectionary and water to avoid queues and silly prices.

Clean Up at The Hawthorns

West Bromwich Albion 0-5 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 26,105
This would have been a great game on the Tv. Well it wasn't showing so had to rely on that streaming internet malarkey hooking the laptop up the little flat screen in the kitchen. The Biffa herself was impressed, and is looking forward to BBC iPlayer coming to a proper Tv screen.

It looked so comfortable, though when it was just 2 goals up W.B.A. came close by hitting the post. This spurred on United to finish it. They did, and several missed chances could have given an even bigger score line. Berbatov 22, Tevez 44, Vidic 60, Ronaldo 65, 73 !!!!!

Referee Rob Styles is a bit card happy, 7 bookings and sending off Robinson of West Brom quite harshly for going for the ball with Ji-Sun Park in a clean game without malice. But that's his style. "Has he been on the pies?" remarked the Biffa thinking he's put on a few kilos.

As for free streaming matches it's a bit like the joys and frustration of shortwave radio. Glad you have some reception but it's not high fidelity to sit back in the lounge and let it wash over you.

One nil, 3 points, go top

Bolton Wanderers 0-1 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 26,021
I was at the FC United v. Prescot Cables game (see previous post) and following this game by checking the mobile phone for updates on the web. Also listening to people around me giving out scores - "The Bitters are winning, Chelsea are a goal down against Stoke". It remained 0-0 and resigned myself to a draw. Full time and made my way to the exit steps. There is a big Tv with a crowd around it. Get told United have won with a last minute goal by Berbatov. Straight into good mood mode for the walk uphill to the tram stop.

That means you can watch "Match of The Day" on BBC1 to see how it went. You don't see how it went. You see the highlights which is good goal stopping by Jaaskelainen and Bolton trying to get a point from the game.

Probably got another 3 months of this - home team turns out to get a draw and United eventually getting the late, late winner when everyone is exhausted.

The Grind of the Wigan win

United 1-0 Wigan Athletic
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 73,917
The evening started well. Ronaldo collected his FIFA Player of The Year award on the pitch - his sideboard must be sagging under the weight of the trophies he's collected. I had barely time to read the electronic scoreboard flashing up the names of the potential substitutes before the first goal was scored. Thinking the floodgates were about to open. Unfortunately Rooney the scorer retired injured and the game never regained that sparkle.

First half went down to being dull. I have to question the point of Nani on the pitch, the bloke next to me, Brian, is no fan of Berbatov. We both find fault with our chosen players. For me Berbatov is good to watch - the way he can deal with waist height balls by trapping them with an outstretched leg comes in very useful. Nani plays slightly better on the right than on the left.

Second half it all goes a bit shakey. Even Fergie is on the touchline shouting concerns. Fortunately Wigan fail to get shots on target for all their effort. They are working hard and there isn't enough steam in United, after the win on Sunday, to put the game into a comfortable 2 goal cushion. Glad it eventually ended and the points were safe.

Chelsea slump by 3 goals

United 3-0 Chelsea
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,455

Third Goal Cheers from biffadigital on Vimeo
At last I can get to a live match and it's already 11 days into the year. What better it's one of the four big league fixtures. Apprehensive about getting a result based on recent form and the first half display confirms my prediction of 1-1. Don't look like scoring, anything goals are going to come from set pieces. The crowd were in fine form though - best singing and support in a good while. Best chanting reserved for Chelsea's John Terry. He's cheered, has his own song and even gets the bar scarf twirl to go with it. But what do I know - a goal from a corner just before half time only for it to disallowed. Whilst we're cursing the lino for being mis-sighted it's taken again and suprisingly it's headed home. Elation.

Second half sees a more structured performance by the reds, even Giggs is playing well and the defending is totally resolute. Get another goal and this match is won as Chelsea have very little to offer now. Well two great goals down at our end confirms the points. Singing "Terry, Terry give us a wave"...and the obligatory "Are You Watching Merseyside?" We've beaten Chelsea and their fans are leaving before the end but we're all staying to cheer United off the pitch.

What a great evening out. Didn't expect to win but did. Walking back thinking about coming back on Wednesday for Wigan Athletic one of those games in hand. But first it's a date with Match of the Day to see it all again in close-up.

Got another 1-0 win

United 1-0 Middlesboro
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,294
Another cold night and the third 1-0 win on the trot. But it's three points which is what really matters. The crowd were up for more goals and more singing than in recent matches. A new song, well an old song it's back to Yellow Submarine with new words....
"City's going down with a billion in the bank
A billion in the bank
A billion in the bank"
Middlesboro are a tough and well organised - they pack the box, they've had the tactics drummed into them. Eventually, and it was enternity there was a loose ball in the box. Fortunately it fell to Berbatov, anyone else would have lashed at it over the bar as it was at one of those tricky knee heights. Not the best game to end the year on nut still on track near the top of the table.

Game 60 for 2008 - hurrah made the target. Admission £35

Three points from the Potters

Stoke City 0-1 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 27,500
A very frustrating a game to watch. Sprawled out on the sofa, the curtains half closed to keep the low sun out and the cup of tea on the table. That's one of the problems of early kick-offs in winter the sun is so low in the sky that it not only affects Tv coverage of going to shadows to brightness it affects the passing play sometimes. It's no excuse. Stoke looked well organised and steady at the back, unlike when they turned up at Old Trafford a few weeks ago. In the second half they must have thought they'd done enough to sit back, absorb the pressure and get a point. After being reduced to 10 men they defended and harried ever tighter. But it's not a tactic that usually pays off against United. The pressure was on, though I was predicting an annoying 0-0 draw at this stage. Berbatov came on for O'Shea to increase the firepower and Tevez got the winner on 83 minutes. Season after season we get put through this mill of exasperation only to score late in the game, but that's how titles are won.

No goals, soggy pitches and no change

Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 35,882
I'm a bit sick of these 1730h kick offs. You have this appointment waiting ahead of you all day, you know the results elsewhere, it ruins the rhythm of eating and drinking times. But that's the modern game, just get on with it. A lacklustre first half, no prospect of a goal. I had a sleep on the sofa during the interval. Fortunately the Biffa, herself, woke me up shouting "they've kicked off again". The game improved and I really thought there is a chance of a win. Well it went in the back of the net from Ronaldo but it accidentally touched his hand from his chest. Gomes, the Spurs goalie had an excellent game, which was unfortunate for us.

Spent an earlier hour in the day looking for a local small game to go...but found three waterlogged pitches. Only the Altrincham v. Southport in the FA Vase was on, but getting back for the start of the United game would have been a bit tricky. Oh well...not the best Saturday.

Nemanja wins it in injury time

United 1-0 Sunderland
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,400
A last gasp goal by Nemanja Vidic in the first minute of injury time of the four minutes added on. We loved it and went home happy, the crowd singing his name as they left the stadium.

But what a wait. First the kick isn't until 1730h kick off after the other top teams have won. Sit through a tedious first half with all the action at the far end of the pitch. Then you watch wave after wave of United attacks get thwarted by resolute defending. One goal is what wanted and eventually it happened. Sunderland must have been gutted. They played well and grew stronger as more crosses were cleared and more shots were blocked.

We were on our feet for the last ten minutes willing on more effort. Nobody left early, well not in the Stretford End. You go to a game third in the table, and Sunderland third from bottom which on paper looks like a sackful of goals. In the end you're happy with Nemanja Vidic getting to a loose ball that's come off the metalwork.

A great derby performance

Manchester City 0-1 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 47,320
Always a bit apprehensive over derby encounters but United turned in an impressive battling performance. The irony of not one Manchester born player starting on the pitch wasn't lost. Rooney scoring his 100th goal for the club is one to remember. He nearly got his 101st but Joe Hart saved with the back of his glove as he raced back to his goal. After Ronaldo got sent off I thought the City would out run us but the defence held and the time wasting did its magic. Won't hear a peep out the City fans at work now.

It was a whole afternoon in front of Tv. To complete the afternoon I saw Histon beat Leeds United on a sodden muddy pitch in the FA Cup. I had to look on a map to find out where the village is. Just north of Cambridge. The FA Cup 3rd Round draw followed - Southampton away will do nicely. Though personally I prefer home cup games to league matches other than the big 4. Continued with the Chelsea v. Arsenal encounter. Found myself cheering on the Gunners.

Surreal Tv Coverage

Missed two games now through the weather and illness. The lesson is, take any opportunity to go and see a live game when you can. It may be your last.

First off FC United v. Boston United (FA Trophy 3rd round), on Sunday last was cancelled with a waterlogged pitch. Drat, I was going to live blog this game and even booked the day off work. Double drat that's a holiday wasted at home. Re-scheduled for Wednesday, didn't go as the Biffa herself was ill. But enjoyed the surreal streaming internet coverage on the laptop. A webcam, on a monitor of the live camera recording the game was fed up to the web. Blurry, stream breaks-up and comedy commentary from FCUM-TV who cover the FC United play, and a guest supporter from Boston United as he knows the names of their team. This is gritty broadcasting, not the slick formula of modern telly. Lost 1-3, and attendance a mere 936.

Secondly I got ill and spent most of Thursday in bed asleep. The Biffa woke me up at 2200h to tell me the result of the United Youth v. Chelsea Youth game. Not good either, lost 2-3. But Danny Welbeck scored, she said, but it wasn't enough. Attendance 1,246.

Should be fit enough to watch the big derby game, away at the Council House this Sunday. Though personally I'm not optimistic about coming away with all three points. City are a good and very patchy side, but can raise their game especially against United.

Disappointing draw at Villa

Aston Villa 0-0 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 42,585
One of those games that got away. Plenty of posession, good attacking play and strong defending. Few chances and those that came didn't get a goal. A very good Aston Villa side who played to win. Oh well, a long season and more dropped points. Third in the table and eights points off the leaders just hoping the wheels will come off Chelsea and Liverpool to sneak up for another title. Big games against Villarreal away and Manchester City away coming up and very likely some key players missing. But as ever optimistic.

Five Against The Potters

United 5-0 Stoke City
Premiership 2008-09; attendance 75,369

We Got Five from biffadigital on Vimeo.
A goal up in three minutes. Ronaldo gets his 100th for the club with a blinding free kick. Good mood all round. United looked a class act today totally dominating the match. Highlights for me was Danny Welbeck coming on and scoring a cracker. I was pleased for him, and scoring on your Premiership debut is an achievement. Obviously Ronaldo bagging two, the second one was at our end, in front of the Stretford and is featured in the blurry, jerky video above. Even Manucho coming on as a sub and nearly scoring. It's good to see the lads from the Reserves coming through. Johnny Evans and Danny Gibson need to play matches like this, and that's what teams at the bottom end like Stoke City are here for.

All the fuss about Delap's throw-ins, was just fuss. Okeh he can pitch the ball a long way but United dealt with his high balls. In the end he stopped doing them.

Stumble at the Emirates

Arsenal 2-1 United
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 60,106
Big disappointment but an attacking game to the end. United are playing great football, but it's not that great when the chances don't convert to goals. A spectacular very late consolation goal by Rafael at the end of 90 minutes, then five minutes time added on trying to get an equaliser. But came away with nothing. Arsenal missed some good chances too. All I can think is some team is going to get well beaten by United - 5 or 6 goals - very soon.

Reds 4 Tigers 3

United 4-3 Hull City
Premiership 2008/09; attendance 75,398
What a game to go to for my 50th live game of the year. Bright winter sunshine setting off for a traditional 3 o'clock Saturday kick-off. It doesn't get better than this. Actually the 3 o'clock kick-off is a myth - 'cos games had to start at 2 o'clock in the days before floodlights. Expected a win but not this close. Can't remember the last team to come here and score three. At 4-1 up didn't expect Van der Sar to get a ball chipped over from a tricky angle. Then there was a penalty to Hull. So it ends up having to make the whistling noise for full time to be called. If only we'd put a few more chances away.

Other incidents are seeing the ejection of lots of Hull fans from the North Stand, and Quadrant. Well they would celebrate their first goal in a home supporters section. You know it's always a flashpoint. The use of CCTV and radio contact with stewards makes this easily achievable.

An excellent match: Game 50 in 2008, cost £35 with an excellent view of Ronaldo's opening goal, and Carrick's low drive in off the post.

Stroll By The Hammers

United 2-0 West Ham United
Premiership 2008/09 : attendance 75,397
You turn up and you don't expect to lose. Cold night, about 4C, very muted crowd, bit of singing in the upper Stretford End. Two goals at the far end by Ronaldo. Job done, three points, go home and watch it from a different angle on 'Match of The Day'. It all felt a bit flat.

Points of interest. Last 20 minutes, you have Berbatov, Ronaldo, Rooney and Tevez as the attackers, that's some fire-power. A couple of fine saves by Robert Green, two corners and that's it. Just thinking about goal difference and how it's important later in the season. There was a some presentations before the game which delayed the start by about five minutes. Table with a white table cloth - Ronaldo and Ferdinand pick up some FIFA awards. Big cheers. You expect that. Then some corporate presentation by Sir Alex to Hublot watches the "new timekeeping partnership with United" and other PR speak. Everyone around looked bemused, didn't cheer. The new Red Devils : Big Bang watch looks great on the Hublot website. But no prices, which you means - if you have to ask you can't afford it.

Disappointing draw at Everton

Everton 1-1 United
Premiership 2008-09 attendance 36,069
When this fixture was published with a noon day kick-off I thought great. Get down the pub, finish at 1400h, then get the bus outside to go see a local Non-League game - Trafford v. Durham City. All wrong, not on Sky Tv and the local game is cancelled 'cos Durham are at home in the FA Cup. Next step find a Plan B which was the unreliability of web streaming Tv.

First half United looked awesome sat in front of the laptop. Fast, furious paced game and Fletcher scores a great goal. As for the second half Everton played their best football all season. United's defence did well to sustain the pressure. But unless you have your 2 goal cushion the game remains in the balance. Everton eventually scored and unfortunately there was no second goal from the few opportunities that United created. Didn't even threaten from any of Ronaldo's free kicks - maybe Giggs should take a few of them. Oh well, go out, watch a local match and think about the next fixture on Wednesday.

As for dodgy streaming web Tv it's still freezes at inappropriate moments and I'd never pay good money for it. But it's more widely available, which must annoy the satellite broadcasters a little bit.

All smiles from 4 goals

United 4-0 West Bromwich Albion Premiership 2008/09 : attendance 75,451
Ten before five (1650h) and setting off to watch a football match just as all the days results are coming through. Doesn't seam right, like having your dinner at ten at night and you've had to have snacks all day to stop the hunger. West Brom come out in white shorts the same as United's white shorts that doesn't seam right either.

First half not much to say. A Rooney disallowed goal, Evra goes off injured and we get John O'Shea, then there is some tourist supporter sat behind my seat who is annoying. Quickly lean back on my plastic seat that bends back to crush her twitching hands. All the play is at the far end, and lots of corners about one every five minutes.

Second half is better. It's only a matter of time before the first goal. Well we get to see 4 goals in front of us. Three breakaways, and a comedy one from Berbatov. He's not even facing the nets, sticks his knee up from a cross and it goes in the top corner. We're all laughing - it's a demolition job. Looking to take a picture of the game and Nani obliges by slotting home the fourth. It's the blurry picture above.

Game 44; Cost £35 - took a Crunchie bar for a half time snack.

Easy at Ewood

Blackburn Rovers 0-2 United Premiership 2008/09; attendance 27,321
A convincing show by United. The first goal looked a bit flooky with their keeper Jason Brown sandwiched between Vidic and Wes Brown. There should have been few more goals from United but the second goal by Rooney from an amazing run at speed by Ronaldo was class. At least Blackburn don't have Brad Friedland in nets these days, a goalie who always played superb against the reds.

Sunshine As Reds beat Whites

United 2-0 Bolton Wanderers
Premiership 2008/09 : attendance 75,484

A game at a 3 O'clock game on a Saturday and it's brilliant sunshine - that's a rarity. Not a bad match either. United stroked the ball across the field, left side, right side, back again but nothing to show for it. Thought Fletcher and Anderson were excellent in midfield.

The talk will be about the penalty award. Ronaldo went down in the penalty area. It was at the far end so didn't have the best view, and I've seen so many penalties not given but the game stopped and the ref awarded a spot kick. Ronaldo scores.

This game opened up a bit after that. Scholes and Rooney came on and I witnessed some really excellent play. It could have been four nil but we settled for one goal from Rooney. Thought Berbatov is getting more into the United style, a few more games and a clear role. At least he has the ability to stay onside during play.

Took some bright blue sky video footage at the back of the Stretford End. Spotted the Da Silva boys going to the match, that's the opening shot. Game 41; admission £35 - took our own sandwich of ciabatta with spicy pinto bean dip and lettuce. Went to B&Q on the way home, the car park had been football fans cars and the store was empty.

Point at the Bridge

Chelsea 1-1 United
Premiership 2008/09: attendance 41,760
Didn't think we'd win today, thought we'd get beaten about 2-0. So happy with the point. If we could score more than one goal a game we'd be up there at the top of the table instead of being 15th. Putting these games beyond reach with a second goal instead of putting the defence under pressure for most of the match.

Questions about the match:
Berbatov, what does he do? Limp passing playing a hovering about role.
Mike Riley the referee, what does he do? Hand out yellow cards and more yellow cards. You can get a yellow for just a hand gesture that somebody has just fouled you.
The substitutions, what were they about? Ronaldo, a match winner and needs another run out - fair enough but the game needing sorting out in mid-field. Bring on John O'Shea what sort of option is that.

We can all put this down to another slow faltering start to another season and the best is yet to come. Let's hope so. Maybe put four past Bolton next weekend.

Bad Day At The Office

Liverpool 2-1 United
Premiership 2008/09 Att: 44,192
A dream start to the match, one nil up within 3 minutes. But after that it went downhill. A fumbled mix-up between Van de Saar and Brown makes it 1-1. Just get to half time with this score and sort it out for next 45 minutes. It was Liverpool who sorted it out - most of the ball, most of the play, mostly in the United half of the pitch. Not a good day. Are we waiting until the return of Ronaldo before the goals start coming?

Good 3 pointer at Pompey

Portsmouth 0-1 United
FA Premiership 2008/09; att: 20,540

These are the results that count, going to Fratton Park on a Monday night, after every other team has played and coming back with 3 points. Watched this one on dodgy internet Tv, supplemented by Radio 5Live. Could have gone to the pub, but just wanted a quiet night. Good to see Anderson return to the team, and Evra is just superb at the moment. Good job there is a solid defence 'cos United arn't firing them in at the moment. But one is enough, which makes Darren Fletcher played 2, scored 2....which says something.

More Goals Please

United 1-1 Newcastle United
FA Premier League : att 75,512

More Goals Please from biffadigital on Vimeo.
It's becoming a bit of a habit this holding up bits of plastic to spell out words - today it was "More Goals Please". Not sure the players actually see them as they face the South Stand before kick off. They don't plastic words with it being more a corporate, guests, and the prawn sandwich brigade.

Well we nearly got a sack full of goals. The chances were created but nothing went into the nets except a 24th minute equaliser from Darren Fletcher. When Giggs and Campbell went off they were not replaced with forwards. No strikers to bring on. No Ronaldo, Tevez, or Nani and until they come back it'll probably be a lean scoring time. Where's Saha when you need him? Still with a sick note.

Back to the plastic business - isn't it about time big football clubs and their fans try to get some green credentials. Last season I tried to take a photo of the rubbish, most of it plastic bottles and wrappings collected from one of the stands. It was a mini-mountain. I was stopped from even pointing the camera at it by club officials.

Back to the game it was quite entertaining. Ferdinand and Vidic are absolutely fantastic at the back, Evra is a star, Rooney a dynamo....but more goals please.

Just A Pic :Double Champions 2008

You have to enjoy the moments when they are here. After a season that went to the last two games and a penalty shoot-out to collect the double I think a few more weeks of trumpet blowing is in order.
Manchester Evening News

Hull City in the Premiership

I always like it when a team I've never seen in a live game get to the Premiership. So congratulations to Hull City winning the play-offs. One goal from the ledgendary Dean Windass. All set up by Fraizer Campbell, another of those United young players out on loan. Will he ever comes back to wear the red shirt and find a place in the squad?

I get a few text messages saying the usual 'that's 6 points off them next season'. It may well be, but a team that's never played in the top division before always adds a bit of interest to the season.

C-H-A-M-P-I-O-N-S

Wigan Athletic 0-2 United
It went just as I wished for. Nervous, and getting more nervous until Ronaldo slotted home a penalty on 33 minutes. Scholes just avoids getting sent off. Got to half time and Chelsea still at 0-0. Second half and the need for a second half goal, especially when Chelsea go in front against Bolton. Now I'm nervous again, but Giggs seals it. Relax the cushion is in place though we had to wait until 81 minutes.

Thankfully the season is over, that big silver trophy doesn't leave Old Trafford, I can return to calmness, get the champagne out and be happy. Next season can be it wrapped up in April.

Ahead of Final Sunday

What a dramatic end to the season? The media and the neutrals must be loving the make or break of who gets the Premiership. For a fan it's not easy. Too many hopes dashed over the years and you still come back for more. Just sorted out the season tickets for next season - only a mere 6% rise - so it will be back for more. Let's hope for an early goal to settle the game down, and a two goal cushion before the break - then I can enjoy the football.

Stroll past the Hammers

United 4-1 West Ham United att: 76,013

Last home game of the season on a warm sunny dinner time. I'm confident of a win today. Ronaldo scores within five minutes. Barely out of second gear. The open play is like watching a friendly. Even when West Ham scored one of the neatest goals - an slick over head kick from about eigth yards out it still looks a friendly. Even the United fans appauled that. Not a friendly when Nani was sent off. It was at the other end in an off the ball incident. I just saw two players on the ground and some milling around. Nobody around me knew what happened either. But even with 10 men for 55 minutes still managed to score another. At 4-1, all over, could have gone home. But everyone stayed for the expected lap round the ground by the players.

The amusing bits were the Stretford End chanting "Tevez, Tevez give us a wave." He obliged. So later did Giggs, Brown and Ferdinand. My man of the match was Tevez for his fantastic goal, and chasing every ball. He even went to applaud the West Ham fans at the end, and they remember him with affection - well he did keep them from relegation last season.

Game 25; Admission £33 - still don't buy a programme, coffee or megastall tat. Still two big games to come.

Make it hard for yourself

Chelsea 2-1 United
Looked at the team selection and thought "we'll be lucky to win this". When Vidic went off after a few minutes knew we'd be up against it now. The relentless pressure was on, won't be able to keep a clean sheet for 90 minutes. If we can only get to half time with 0-0. No, they scored. Second half was a lot brighter, and an equaliser by Rooney from a silly mistake. At least it'll be a draw, and would have been happy with that. But again no, lost out to a penalty, coolly taken by Ballack.

That means
a) A must win game next Saturday against a bogey team West Ham United.
b) Wait until Monday night and hope Chelsea slip up at Newcastle. I doubt it.
c) A must win game the week after at Wigan. At least they don't need the points.
d) Chelsea have Bolton Wanderers at home - both teams need the points.

Disappointed.

Friedel Di De

Blackburn Rovers 1-1 United
on Setanta Sports 1
How many times have I seen this, Brad Friedel is good goalkeeper but when he plays against United he is exceptional. The goals just wouldn't happen and I thought it wouldn't be our day. But when it did it was the most welcome one of the season, a beautiful Tevez flick on header in a packed penalty box. So just one point and six more needed from the last three games. Pressure on at Stamford Bridge next Saturday dinner time. Think I'll have to subscribe to Prozac to watch it.

Heskey - I can't believe it

Winning the Premiership is often by the other teams slipping up. Tonight it was Chelsea 1-1 Wigan Athletic, with an injury time equaliser from Emile Heskey of all strikers. Lots of whooping at Biffa Mansions!! So that means 7 points from 4 games and the trophy gets another trip around the Old Trafford pitch.

Celebrating a little tonight, but it's not over. Arsenal and Chelsea can still win the title. But I'm someone who stays until the final whistle blows and know from long years it can all be taken away at the last minute. Nearly there....

All 3 points and Arsenal's season is over

United 2-1 Arsenal att: 75,985

After beating Arsenal from biffadigital on Vimeo.
What a thriller but I was glad when it was over. Chances in the first half, winning the ball but then let down by poor short passes. Don't know what happened when they scored first in the second half. It was at the far end, and it appeared to get bundled in the net. Thought this is going to be uphill now just to get a draw. Then it's a penalty for handball at our end. Ronaldo scores but has to retake it. But does the same again, a run-up, stops, another step and blasts it into the bottom corner. How cool is that.

The winner comes from a free-kick outside the area. Didn't notice who was taking it as too busy watching Anderson. His antics behind the wall, moving his hands about and facing the goal and looking at Lehmann. It must have distracted Lehmann too. He didn't move and Hargreaves slotted into the right side. Wonderful.

After that it was standing up at the Stretford End. Bring on Tevez and Anderson, and try for that third goal. Didn't happen, so the last ten minutes were a bit nerve wracking. Four minutes extra time, and remembering the events at the Emirates earlier in the year Arsenal pressed for the equaliser.

Most of the Stretford End stayed to cheer the players off and sing another two songs - it's on the video. A close win in a big game, one of the best matches all season.

Battle with Boro secures a point

Middlesboro 2-2 United
Much will be made of Vidic's absence with United's defence caught too far up the pitch again and again. A goal up, Ronaldo's 37th this season but then 2-1 down. Happy then to get a draw thanks to Rooney. Probably a fair result. United never make it easy for themselves. You think this should have been a three pointer but instead it makes next Sunday's Arsenal clash even more important to win. 12 points to win the title. It's after games like this you don't want to think of points dropped against teams you could have beaten - lost 4, drawn 4 thi season.

Just A Vid : Rainy Match at Old Trafford

Rainy Day Match from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Short two minute video. Going to the United v. Aston Villa game in the rain. It was still raining when we came out...Good job we won otherwise we'd have been wet and miserable instead of wet and joyous.

That's why we're champions

United 4-0 Aston Villa; attendance 75,936
The reds turned in a superb performance. Villa were always capable of scoring a goal through sheer persistance but United could have put away seven. But it was like seeing a surgeon's knife slicing through warm margarine with the crowd singing "that's why we're champions".

Very rarely does it rain on the way to the match but it lashed it down. Wish I'd worn my waterproof cycling trousers. Didn't, so sat in wet jeans for nearly two hours. Didn't care, more concerned about the leaks in the roof - hit by big drips in the second half.

Scousers get nowt at Easter

United 3-0 Liverpool; att 76,000 (official)

Viva Ronaldo : Stretford End from biffadigital on Vimeo.
There is always those turning points in a match. Just when you're wondering where the first goal is coming from, up pops Wes Brown from nowhere and heads it home. At last, and maybe Livepool will have to attack more and loosen the defence. Next turn - they get a player sent off who was nowhere the original incident. So half time and the referee has to have two minders to escort him from the pitch.

Second half attacking our end and a heap of missed chances and good saves, so where is the second goal to seal the game. Up pops, Ronaldo not noted for going for headers out in the field but can be deadly in the penalty area. 2-0, and a few minutes later Nani gets a third and does those bouncy somersaults to celebrate.

Points of interest : Standing throughout the whole match it was taken that seriously at the Stretford End. Seeing Saha going into the ground at 1310h in a red coloured hoodie (not from Primark) - that's a relief he won't be playing. What a run-in to the end of the season - seven games left, it's going to be close.

The Easter Weekend

The big games are on Sunday. Only four big platinum Premiership games at Old Trafford in a season and the biggie is United v. Liverpool at 1330h. There is a bitter northerly wind blowing across Manchester at the moment, the forecast is for snow and Lawro's prediction is a 1-1 draw. We'll see - I'm going for no snow and a 2-0 win. Afterwards Chelsea play Arsenal at 1600h. Makes you think the fixture list isn't made up at random but rather a Tv fest for Sky. Noticed in Italy there are no Serie A matches at Easter - obviously the Pope has more power than Sky there.

I'm having my own Easter footie fest. Besides Old Trafford it's off to see FC United play neighbours Radcliffe Borough yet again - 3 o'clock on a Saturday. Three vital points at stake. On Easter Monday, when a third of the country sits in heavy motorway traffic, it's over to Woodley Sports against FC United. I'm told it's a small ground with a plastic pitch at the back of a housing estate.

Still on my mission to see 40 plus games this year so have to attend at least 20 before the summer break. Only five United home games left, six if we get the Champions League semi-final. So there might be some strange reports coming up like watching Whalley Range v. Newton Heath next month. They all count.

Easy pickings over Wanderers

United 2-0 Bolton Wanderers att: 75,746
Two great goals by Ronaldo, another three points, just the job. Once again I didn't like the idea of United attacking the Stretford End in the first half. It's been a bad omen but that was laid to rest. It didn't help Bolton and I got to see both goals close up. The picture is of the three lads with dodgy hair colouring, watching their video of Ronaldo's second from a free kick at half time. Second half United dropped into second gear, and too be fair to Bolton they didn't fold and tried to get back into the game.

Best bits - United playing 4-4-2 even though one of your two is fall-over, light weight Saha and the other is Tevez who can hold off the heaviest back line clogger. Worse bits is the new song "Viva Ronaldo, Viva Ronaldo, He plays on the wing, And United Sing, Viva Ronaldo". Not an outstanding game but that's how you win the title by resting players and still winning.

Fixture Change & Back Again

The downside of a season ticket holder is you can't make other arrangements if you want to see all the games. That's is the purpose of shelling out a season's money in advance. So when the Aston Villa home game was moved to a Sunday 30th April after I bought tickets to the World Cycling Championship at the Velodrome, Manchester I was a bit miffed.

However just as I was selling the tickets, news came through the game has been switched back to Saturday. Good news then. This is all because the AS Roma game is on the following Tuesday. So it UEFA who have the over riding say in the fixtures and not the TV companies. Maybe?

All the remaining United fixtures will be on Tv, well sort of....still awaiting the schedule for the last two games in May. That's West Ham United (H), and Wigan Athletic (A) so I've not made any arrangements for those weekends, not with every game needing another crucial win.

Howay One Five

Newcastle United 1-5 United
Listened to the first half on Radio Five Live here in Den Haag. Excellent reception in the early evening. Thought at two nil up at half time we'd venture to O'Casey's round the corner for a few pints of Guinness and a possible goal fest. The rugby was on in the back of the pub and that was noisy so essentially watched on a big screen and couldn't hear much commentary. It looked so easy for United. Inviting Newcastle to come and attack and then pouncing back. Had a chat with a couple of Charlton Athletic fans during the game, and suprisingly you can still smoke until Dutch pubs (it gets banned in July 2008). Poor Mr.Keegan his face told it all - yet to record a win it can only get worse before it gets better. Best moment for me was when Ronaldo slipped over. Big cheer from the home town supporters. Only he gets up, receives a pass, beats a defender and another goal. Head in hands for the home fans.

Taoiseach puts team straight

There was a whole ten pages devoted to the derby game in tonight's Manchester Evening News. Don't know why I bought when we lost. Picture of Prime Minister Gordon Brown, and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern at the game. You do a bit of political chit chat at the airport, sort out international relations and get some tickets to the match. Not reported in the Evening News was Bertie Ahern's, a long time United supporter, comments about the United's team performance. You have to leave that to the Irish Independent. Notice in the photo are three of the seven Glazer directors...

"Taoiseach shoots from the lip as City rivals beat his beloved Reds" Here
The best line is "Thankfully there's always 5.15 next Saturday against Arsenal!"

Dire Performance in the Derby

United 1 Manchester City 2 att: 75,970

Derby Day Chants from biffadigital on Vimeo.
The fans were behind their teams, the 1 minute silence was observed, and free scarves held aloft. But the United's team performance was one of the worse I've seen for years. Plenty of poor passing, shots well wide and hopeless big hoof balls up to the forwards. No Rooney or Evra and it showed. To be fair to City they looked composed and new signing Benjani is a handful for any defence. Disappointed, very disappointed with today's team effort.

Other points...City fans signing "There's only one Frank Swift" which was welcomed with applause by the United faithful. Some firework bangs going off in the minute's silence - not sure about that. Getting a free scarf (100% acrylic, Made in China - isn't everything) and a facsimile programme of the game after Munich with the blank team sheet.

BBC Video of pre-match wreaths, bag-piper & silence..here

Looking forward to the derby

Only two home games this month, and two away ones both on the Tv, but all of them big, big games. There are not many cherry picks in the Premiership, so much for taking the matches to the Far East - Blackburn Rovers v. Birmingham City in Kuala Lumpar on a Sunday morning anyone? Apart from playing City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea the rest of the league fixtures are very much clementines and crab apples.

But this is a big match - and the most talked about derby in years. So come Sunday we'll be getting to Old Trafford a little bit earlier instead of ten minutes before kick-off, don't want to miss a minute of it. An hyper electric, emotionally charged atmosphere with all that tension and expectancy of a game against City. Even the main stand might join in with some polite clapping. Unfortunately Rooney will not be on the pitch but if Ronaldo can score wearing black boots and not his golden ones we'll get the result we want. Just hoping it's a noisy sporting occasion to savour and not marred by a few morons going in K stand.

Where Are They Now? At Sunderland

If you could have a wish and keep one team from being relegated from the Premiership, and there are several in contention, who would it be? For me, without a doubt - keep Sunderland in the top flight.

The answer is highlighted in yesterday's article in The Guardian "Keane turns Sunderland into New Trafford" and naturally you want Roy Keane to do well as a manager.

So who is at Sunderland who used to be at Old Trafford :
Roy Keane (we know), Phil Bardsley, Dwight Yorke, Kieran Richardson, Liam Miller, Andy Cole (but out on loan to Burnley), Paul McShane, Jonny Evans (on loan after the xmas party), Danny Higginbotham, Raimond van der Gouwe (goalkeeping coach), Mick Brown (chief scout), Ricky Sbragia (first team coach), Neil Bailey (reserve team coach) and Michael Clegg (back room staff - 9 appearances in a United shirt)....

How come we're happy with a point?

Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 United att : 36,075
After listening to the first half on the radio I decided to take an afternoon nap. Tired, late night and no lie-in; but secretly hoping it would be a repeat of that famous comeback a few seasons ago when 3 nil down, turned off, had a kip and won 3-4. Eventually re-surfaced to the shouts downstairs of the Biffa herself - it was 1-1 with last kick of the game.

It's odd that a late equaliser feels as good as win. Sort of a Dunkirk spirit of getting beat but pulling off a minor coup by sharing the points.

Got 2, got 3, wanted 4

United v. Portsmouth 2-0 attendance 75,434
When you go two up in 15 minutes you think the floodgates are going to open and Ronaldo would have got a hat trick. But no, and no matter how close you come a third goal never materialised. It was all not quite, and "England's Number 1", that's David James made up for just standing and not seeing Ronaldo's free kick fly in by making it look easy. So three points and back on top of league. The picture on the left is a chap from Swansea who has made his first visit to Old Trafford. He loved the atmosphere and noise but then again he's used to rugby. Other interesting highlights... a massive cheer when the West Ham 1-0 Liverpool result was announced, oh how we love others misery. At half time we got Mike Groves singing "Flowers of Manchester"- you might have to check the website to get the background for that.

Close but class wins at Reading

Reading 0-2 United on XFM, 97.7Mhz, and updates on Twitter from United on Fire

Living in Manchester, you have all the United games on the local radio. Plus to get the reaction of a United fan, I had Twitter updates coming direct from the Madejski Stadium. Reading always make it difficult and it sounded that way. Possibly bringing on Giggs helped and a maybe good dressing room talk at half time. First goal was at 77 minutes from Rooney, second goal at 92 minutes from Ronaldo. Happy tonight with three points and still top of the table.

No FC United game today - waterlogged Britain.

Six in a second half blitz

United 6-0 Newcastle United, attendance 75,969

When Newcastle went into the tunnel at half time with no goals they must have thought a job well done. The ref Rob Styles went off to loud booing. Unlike the previous New Year's Day fixture the atmosphere was lively and the chanting had returned. It might be season tickets at Old Trafford but the crowd changes game on game, as fans off load the less attractive fixtures on people who rarely go. We call those the Handbags and Haribo games - full of Megastore purchases, kids and jester hats. This wasn't one of them.

What a second half. Six goals in front of the Stretford End, a Ronaldo hat trick, just awesome and joy. I thought Newcastle did well to keep it down to six. Simpson, Carrick and Rooney almost got on the score sheet. Interesting bits. Alan Smith getting a red card on 90 minutes, walks off to a standing ovation from the Stretford End. Best chant..."Cheer up Alan Shearer, oh what can it mean, to a sad Geordie etc, etc.." Ronaldo and Nani both have gold coloured boots. You know you've been to a great match when there is singing on the way home.

Get By with One Nil

United 1 Birmingham City 0 att: 75,459
A very subdued afternoon. Bit of a cold, bit of a hangover and a very quiet crowd - apart from the upper reaches of the Stretford End. But a goal up at half time thanks to Tevez. There was a good spell in the second half with plenty of drama in front of the Birmingham goal - but nothing to show for it. When Tevez went off there was nothing to offer in attack. So you end up for the last five minutes suffering - hoping it won't be a draw. Then a long four minutes added time just playing for time wishing the whislte would blow and the three points would be safe.

Most amusing part was "Pissed Up Man" - a regular vocal supporter who sits in our section. Don't know his name but we always let on. In fact you wouldn't want to not let on. He goaded two tourist supporter types next to me for not showing vocal support for the team. At the end he stood over Mr. & Mrs. Mouse, forced a handshake and said "I never ever want to be at a football match with you two again." "At least they're not leaving early like you" quipped somebody from behind. Poor Mr. & Mrs. Mouse, spend £66 plus travel expenses and get abuse, they'd have been happier in the South Stand morgue.

Yes, it's back to 4 goals a game

I don't know how many games have ended with United having scored 4 this season but it's more than the norm. Poor old Sunderland on the receiving end. Due to xmas social commitments had to follow this on the mobile phone. But it's like having teletext in your pocket. Had to follow the later Portsmouth v. Arsenal clash with the same method. A useful draw at Fratton Park puts us top at xmas which is always a morale booster. A trophy in May? It's a long way off. But the great thing about being in the running for the Premiership is it makes every game a three point crucial must win. Thus making the expense of a season ticket worth it.

Hang on in there

I've come to the conclusion I don't enjoy this fixture...Liverpool v. United. Too tense, too much build up, too much history. Can't bear to watch, a goal up and taking everything their attack can throw at you. That includes Peter Crouch.

But the reality is we're only at the top, one point behind Arsenal because of all the other wins. But an away win at Anfield is a celebration, and now I believe another Premiership title is possible. So much for Mark Lawrenson's predictions on the BBC website every Saturday - he had Liverpool to win 1-0. Wrong again.

Just a Vid : Going in Wintertime

Going to the match - wintertime from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Cold wet day. Tramp it out across the Quadrant, up Great Stone Road, cut thru the back streets to the Stretford End Bridge. All the time it's raining. Not in the armchair army today, this is supporters reality.

Contrast with Going in Summer (video). Here.

Wet Pitch and another 4!

I don't think the result was in doubt. You should get three points from a club almost relegated before xmas. The rain lashed down throughout the game. The roof leaks a little , but look at those poor devils with their club issued rain wear. Every player, the ref and two linos came out with a change of kit for the second half. It should have been more goals. Lining up in a second half spell to take shots, metalwork hit a few times. Best chant - Derby County fans signing "We're gonna win 4-3" after their first away goal of the season. Also a strong call from the Stretford End for Carlos Tevez to take the penalty and so have the hat trick. "Argentina, Argentina". I think United fans just like chanting "Argentina" - we've been doing it for Beckham, Heinze, and now it's for Tevez. But it was Ronaldo who got fouled in the box, didn't get booked for diving today, and so he wanted the spot kick.
Stats : United 4 Derby County 1, attendance over 75,000, half time snack : Tofu and Mushroom pie and a Crunchie.

Just Two Against Rovers

Ronaldo picked up an award before the match, and half an hour later slotted home two goals in a minute. Thought the floodgates were going to open but the second half wasn't the most thrilling. Saw some good Brad Friedal saves at our end - he always plays well against United. That was it done and dusted, three points go to the top of Premiership. A clear bitterly cold day, temperature down to 6 degrees by the end.
Stats : United 2 Blackburn Rovers 0; att 75,715; half time snack Clive's Mexican Chilli Pastie (bring your own); 1 Rovers player sent off. Best song "You're Just a small town in Burnley"

2 each a fair result

Billed as the big game, though I wish the commentators could have stopped saying it's too early in the season. You only have big games at the end of the season from picking up points in the other eight months. It was the first time this season, for myself, that the pre-match tension kicked in. It was like an Arsenal fixture before Chelsea bought their success though without the on pitch bitterness.

United not at their passing best, but there arn't many away teams that go the Emirates with three or four players in attack. Just as you're hoping for the final whistle to blow, they get an equaliser to grab the point, you'd have thought they had won the cup final. It's not ruined my day.

What I can't understand is why both managers keep having a rant at the 4th official. He can't change anything he just there for a bit of admin and checking studs on boots.

Video : Main Stand and Fergie Time

Untitled from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Usually I'm a Stretford Ender but for the Middlesboro game I got a ticket for the Main Stand on Row 9. Pretty good view, as you can see from the video. No football action so it shouldn't get removed by killjoys who like to exercise their copyrights.

Notice Sir Alex. Has he got a wind-up watch. Nobody has wind-up watches anymore, or maybe it's a legendary Fergie Time thing.

Yet another four in the net

This time it was Middlesboro who had four goals in the net. But to be fair to the opponents they did come to Old Trafford and make a game of it. For once I was sat in the Main Stand, and on Row 9 so got a good view, and United are looking particularly good at the moment.

Don't know where all these mentions of four successive 4 goals wins happening 100 years ago is coming from. I checked in the Biffa football archives - a small collection of United books from over the years and I can't find it. A 13 game run of wins that helped secure the First Division trophy in the 1907-08 season but some of them were 6-1 or 5-1.

Now why do people start streaming out at 80 minutes. Not only did you block my view, and the ref adds on another 3 minutes. Well you all missed another late goal, this time about Tevez. What was doing on the pitch at the end he usually only does 70 minutes. His work rate though is phenomenal.

Back to Winning Ways

Thank heaven the rugby is over for another four years. Actually watched three matches in the whole tournament, which is more than I've done in a lifetime. Thank the heavens again for the return of Premiership football, and a 4-1 United win at Villa Park. The goals coming from tap-ins, shots and headers inside the penalty area. United looked good with their link up passing work. Feel more confident of a good result against Kiev on Tuesday, and humdinger of a clash with Arsenal.

United Fixture Changes

This is what you have to look out for, the round 2 of fixture changes as requested by the TV paymasters. The December schedule has been announced.
Monday 3rd December, Fulham (H) Setanta - 2000h
Sunday 16th December, Liverpool (A) Sky - 1330h
Saturday 22nd December, Everton (H) Setanta - same day, but a new time possibly 1715h

I can't be the only person who plans their weeks, holidays and work commitments around football schedules. But unforeseen events turn up - I've missed two United Cup Finals with weddings and what have you.

Highlights of the no games United week

Though the week has lacked Premiership football I've managed to find some highlights.

(a) Sir Bobby Charlton has a 70th birthday.
(b) United Reserves managed a 1-1 with Liverpool. I remember Sir Alex once saying something like, a game of tiddley winks between United and Liverpool would draw a lot of interest. Well over 2,700 turned up at Northwich to watch the match, including Sir Alex and Rafael Benitez.
(c) Got a new tap fitted by Tony the Plumber who is a big United fan though he now rents out his ticket. The auto-cup scheme was the last straw. We chatted about how we were freezing at the Youth Cup final against Liverpool last season. They now have some good young signings from South America who haven't made the first team yet, and we've got Dong firing them into Row J.
(d) The Times published the top 50 United moments - here.
(e) Highlights of September published at United On Fire - he has a better memory than me.
(f) That cheating goalkeeper Dida of AC Milan gets a 2 match ban for his falling down antics against Celtic. There is a little justice sometime.
(g) The FCUM-TV radio commentary on Wednesday. It's somewhere between surreal and Test Match Special. Gems like "I wonder what time it is in Equatorial Guinea? " - not even Stuart Hall could top that. Plus you send in text messages and they read them out on air.