To say this is a fearsome rivalry is somewhat of an understatement. More so now than way back in the first Manchester Derby which was played on November 12, 1881, (Though then United was known as Newton Heath). The Heathens won 3-0.
Sunday will be the 164th Derby though it's far from the title decider of the 163rd (and last meeting at the Etihad) it could have a huge bearing on each sides momentum going in to the busy Christmas period.
With City being knocked out of Europe in mid week it does mean they can now focus on their domestic commitments. That is another reason why I can understand Sir Alex Ferguson saying it would be one of Manchester United's best ever results to win Sunday. City could possibly be playing (and traveling) considerably less than United so a 6 point gap at the summit of the English Premier League (EPL) would definitely be great to have.
United and City are threatening to leave third-place Chelsea trailing in their wake, but all is not well at either Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium. City are struggling to score goals having already scored 9 less goals this season than United. Mancini can boast conceding 10 goals less than Ferguson's men as well as being the only undefeated team in the league. So contrasting as each teams failures are its in my opinion quite poetic.
The champions vs the League Leaders, who would have thought one day that statement would refer to City being the Champions and United the latter. Yes its always been United favourites in a Manchester Derby but Sundays its honours even, at least according to the bookies that is.
I normally put my head on the block and go for a Manchester United win (you know I'm thinking that) but the problem I'm faced with is here we have two managers, that to be honest, would much rather not lose.
I quote yesterdays press conference in conclusion
When Sir Alex Ferguson was asked if the 'noisy neighbours' are still noisy....his reply? "They're screaming now!"
What a guy!
Jade Christopher Bentley Adams @JCBA
Sunday will be the 164th Derby though it's far from the title decider of the 163rd (and last meeting at the Etihad) it could have a huge bearing on each sides momentum going in to the busy Christmas period.
With City being knocked out of Europe in mid week it does mean they can now focus on their domestic commitments. That is another reason why I can understand Sir Alex Ferguson saying it would be one of Manchester United's best ever results to win Sunday. City could possibly be playing (and traveling) considerably less than United so a 6 point gap at the summit of the English Premier League (EPL) would definitely be great to have.
United and City are threatening to leave third-place Chelsea trailing in their wake, but all is not well at either Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium. City are struggling to score goals having already scored 9 less goals this season than United. Mancini can boast conceding 10 goals less than Ferguson's men as well as being the only undefeated team in the league. So contrasting as each teams failures are its in my opinion quite poetic.
The champions vs the League Leaders, who would have thought one day that statement would refer to City being the Champions and United the latter. Yes its always been United favourites in a Manchester Derby but Sundays its honours even, at least according to the bookies that is.
I normally put my head on the block and go for a Manchester United win (you know I'm thinking that) but the problem I'm faced with is here we have two managers, that to be honest, would much rather not lose.
I quote yesterdays press conference in conclusion
When Sir Alex Ferguson was asked if the 'noisy neighbours' are still noisy....his reply? "They're screaming now!"
What a guy!
Jade Christopher Bentley Adams @JCBA
Should be a good game for both set of supporters! just hope it isn't a dull draw! Enjoy all you Mancurians
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