Manchester United vs. Fulham: 6 Things We Learned
anchester United put themselves back on top of the Premier League pile with a 1-0 win against Fulham at Old Trafford on Monday night.
Wayne Rooney's predatory finish was the difference between the two teams, in a game that saw Fulham denied a penalty late on when Michael Carrick appeared to bring down Danny Murphy inside the box.
If you missed the game, here's what happened—courtesy of B/R's lead blogger Mike Cummings.
Here are six things we learned at Old Trafford...
David De Gea Is Growing in Confidence
David De Gea's Manchester United career got off to an unconvincing start, but the young Spaniard has shown encouraging signs recently that he has what it takes to rule between the sticks at Old Trafford.
Against Fulham, De Gea was an authority in the air and looked composed at all times. His shot-stopping abilities have never been in question, but the way he looked to catch a ball—when others might have parried—is surely a sign of his growing confidence.
The most promising aspect for United fans is the way De Gea has reacted to criticism and failures. He's knuckled down, listened to advice and done the hard yards to make an improvement.
United's Midfield Continues to Underwhelm
This is not a new problem for United. Sir Alex Ferguson has been rotating his options in central midfield all season, but all too often the pairing flatters to deceive.
Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick played some neat passes last night, but there was no real drive and no real sense of urgency or authority in central areas.
It's been said many times, many ways, but United desperately need midfield reinforcement over the summer if they are to compete against the best in the Premier League and in the Champions League.
Funnily enough, Fulham's Clint Dempsey might not be such a bad option.
Clint Dempsey Can Pick a Club This Summer
Those who follow the Premier League will know only too well of Clint Dempsey's influence this season.
The American has been hugely impressive for Fulham, scoring 12 Premier League goals and providing their driving force in an advanced role.
Dempsey proved yet again at Old Trafford he's capable of elevating to a top side and you can expect plenty of interest in his signature this summer.
He's quick, direct and uses the ball well. And the fact he can provide goals make Dempsey all the more appealing.
United Are Grinding It out
A lot of people expected United to bury Fulham by five or six on Monday night, but Ferguson's team fell a long way short of a "statement of intent" performance at Old Trafford.
Their passing lacked sharpness and United were bereft of the verve and ruthlessness going forward we've come to expect from them at this time of the season.
There were also defensive lapses of concentration and but for a referee's mistake at the death, Fulham would have had a glorious chance to steal a point from the penalty pot.
Ultimately it didn't matter, because three points was all they needed, but United will need to up their game to get past Blackburn at the weekend.
Luck Plays Its Part
When he watches back the replay, referee Michael Oliver will not be in any doubt he made a mistake.
Michael Carrick clearly tripped Danny Murphy inside the box and Fulham should have been awarded a penalty.
But that's football. United were at home and whatever referees tell you, human nature has to be influenced by the presence of 70,000 people ready to blast your call. Surely your default position is to err on the side of caution?
I'd argue the same penalty appeal for the visitors would have been turned away at City, Arsenal, Chelsea—or pretty much anywhere to be honest.
United were lucky, but luck will always play its part in a title race. City may well get theirs in the derby on April 30.
Jonny Evans Has Been United's Most Improved
Jonny Evans has grown as a player this season—perhaps more than any other at United.
He's filled the void left by Nemanja Vidic's injury and become more assured with every game—the added responsibility clearly having a positive effect on his performances.
Evans has been heavily criticized in the past by United fans, but this campaign has seen the Northern Irishman prove a lot of people wrong.
Code:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1120721-manchester-united-vs-fulham-6-things-we-learned