Manchester United hosted the Cherries at Old Trafford but only managed to squeeze out one seed. A humble header from Romelu 'Timaya' Lukaku was the fence that separated the two sides at 90 minutes.
Here are five things ManUtdNaijaFM learnt from today's performance:
1. MANCHESTER-POGBA OR POGBA-UNITED?
United played again this evening without Talisman Paul 'Ikenna' Pogba, and once again lacked swag and spark. Without him in the side, United seem like an 'I-better-pass-my-neighbour' generator.
The current United squad doesn't have any reason to depend so much on the French man. It's becoming worrisome. They aren't that bad. With Pogba, it's FOUR-chester United, without him, ONE-chester United.
2. SHAW GOES TO 'COURT OF APPEAL'.
Luke 'Ajebota' Shaw was given a starting spot in the Matchday squad, and once again grabbed the chance like a child given 'Bobo'.
It was another excellent performance from the left back with his runs, and fine interceptions. Despite DJ Ashley Young's fine form, Shaw seems to be making a serious case to start games. At this rate, it's going to be a stiff competition. ...... We may need 'INEC' to settle the matter finally.
3. PHIL 'OSAZE' JONES
Whenever he is not on the treatment table or in the male ward, Phil 'Osaze' JONES is as solid as a STONE. He was given a starting spot today following a return from injury and he stood 'Gidigba' in defence.
He was everywhere, stopping everything; In the air, the sea and land with his usual 'all body' defending.
His pairing with Chris 'Okonta' Smalling (who also deserves some kudos) clicked today.
4. SLOWLY BUT SURELY FOR JUAN 'BANKOLE' MATA
Another player given a chance today was our assist king of last season, Juan 'Bankole' Mata who has been in horrible form recently.
However like his previous start, he was good today taking the game upon himself and trying to make things work. He was rewarded with his 2nd consecutive assist of the season for Lukaku's header. He seems to have kick-started his season.
5. WHEN LINGARD IS YOUR NUMBER 10,......
In recent games, Jesse 'Awilo' Lingard has come good for United with crucial goals. However, his displays against City and Bournemouth today still leaves that necklace hanging around his neck - 'Not-United-quality'.
He is a decent player, but certainly not a starter and worse still, certainly NOT A NUMBER 10!!. He is pacy, not creative. With him in the No 10 role today, United lacked that ball 'importer and exporter' in the hole. So as expected, cracking the Cherries defence was difficult.
IN THE END, Lukaku's goal celebration summed up United's game; a victory but nothing much to cheer about. Special kudos to our 'Kg3 pupil' McTominay who washed his hands clean and was thus allowed to dine with the elders in the EPL today.
After all said and done, boring game or not, it's 3 points in the bag for United......Half bread is better than 'Kpof-kpof'.
UP NEXT, West Brom; Same time, same Station on Sunday. Stay Tuned to ManUtdNaijaFM .
UP NEXT, West Brom; Same time, same Station on Sunday. Stay Tuned to ManUtdNaijaFM .
OPINION POLL:
Who would you prefer at Left back now? DJ Ashley Young or Luke 'Ajebota' Shaw?......Let's have your thoughts. Lets have your thoughts in the comments section below.
GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED.