Its United’s title to throw away!

Posted on April 1, 2012 by Abdul Khaled

When Seb Larsson put Sunderland 3-1 up against Man City on Saturday afternoon, Sunderland and Manchester United fans alike must have been in dream land. United fans were looking at a possible six point lead at the top of the table, but even though City managed a remarkable comeback to tie the game 3-3, it still opened up the opportunity for a five point lead in favour of the red devils.

However to do so Fergie’s men must go to Ewood park and seek vengeance against a Blackburn side who humiliated them 3-2 at Old Trafford on New Year’s eve, a result which halted United’s title chase but provided ammunition for Rovers’ version of the great escape. Blackburn were rock bottom of the table when they beat the champions at the theatre of dreams and that victory allowed them to go on a run of good results which resulted in Rovers climbing out of the relegation zone.

The win also done wonders for the reputation of Blackburn manager Steve Kean, who up until that point was enemy number one around Ewood Park, with the local faithful calling for his head at every opportunity. The teams recent performance has eased the pressure on Kean and victory over United on Monday night will not only complete a famous double over the champions but also create some breathing space between them and the rest of the teams involved in the relegation fight.

Star Man: Wayne Rooney

The leagues’ in form striker has 17 goals in his last 17 appearances and is in irresistible form at the moment. Exactly what you need from your strikers if you are to win the league, and United are truly blessed in that area as they have Javier Hernandez (12) and Danny Welbeck (10), even the forgotten Dimitar Berbatov has chipped in with 9 goals.

In comparison rivals City have a major problem in the attacking areas. Lead striker Sergio Aguero is out with a mystery injury, which leaves Mancini with the misfiring Dzeko, the enigmatic Balotelli and the rebel Tevez, not the options you would want to have at this stage of the season.

One to watch: Junior Hoilett

Hoilett has really blossomed this season and has formed a dangerous partnership with Yakubu. Steve Kean has managed to bring out the best in Canadian striker, who has managed to score six goals this season. The speed and trickery of Hoilett is sure to cause the United defence some problems.

Prediction: 0-2

The Blackburn players will be full of confidence on Monday night having already had a victory over the champions under their belt but Fergie will not allow his players to take anything for granted this time round. They have an opportunity to open up a considerable lead over City and really take control of the title race, and I don’t see them slipping up this time round.

I’m going for a Man Utd victory (1.35 Oddslife) with Wayne Rooney getting on the score sheet.