Two quick fire goals in the second half from Nani and Hernandez helped United to a 2-1 victory over fellow Premier league team Reading in the FA Cup 5th round. The forgotten Portuguese International came in as a substitute and immediately found himself in the thick of things as he scored the first goal of the game and provided the assist for the second.
His celebration pointing the name at the back of his shirt clearly indicates that he wants to be recognized at the Old Trafford and his performance exactly showed what he is capable off.
The Player ratings:
De Gea – After a busy night against Real Madrid, it was rather a normal game for the Spanish goal-keeper. Was not troubled much other than a Le Fondre shot late in the second half which he saved quite comfortably 7/10.
Jones – Left the field shortly after he picked up an injury early in the game 5/10.
Smalling – His clearance and passing has to be worked on, but overall had a good game. Defending corners and marking his man was beautiful to watch. The youngster is improving with ever game and his partnership with Vidic looked very solid 7/10.
Vidic – As always Looked very solid and commanded the game throughout the 90 minutes. An inspiring performance from the captain which saw hardly any miss timed tackles. With another Champions league game against Madrid lurking around the corner, playing a game like this will help the defender get match-fit again 8/10.
Buttner – Not so great in defending but was comfortable going forward. A decent performance from the youngster 7/10.
Valencia – Had to shift positions after Jones was injured. Playing as a right-back you cannot expect much from him. A good performance to go with the assist he provided for Nani’s goal 6.5/10.
Cleverley – Involved himself with some neat passes in and around the box and blasted few shots on target. His off the ball movements along with a touch of vision was good to see 7.5/10.
Anderson – Not as effective as Cleverley as he still lacks match fitness. But had his moments as well 6/10.
Young – Started the game after coming back from an injury and as expected had an average game. Subbed off in the second half 5.5/10.
Welbeck – From a mind-blowing performance against Real Madrid to an average game in the span of 7 days. Linked up well with Hernandez but definitely not his day 6.5/10.
Hernandez –Played the roll Rooney usually plays for United. Tracked back to get the ball from the midfield and worked it forward. Scored his 15th goal of the season and it’s really surprising how he is not getting more game time. May be in another team he would have been the top scorer. Nonetheless it was another good game from the Mexican 8/10.
Watch the match highlights here:
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