Derby v Manchester United: A Red Devils Rout at the Rock Bottom Rams?
I doubt anyone will need advice for this one but seeing as I’ve previewed all the other games, it would be rude to ignore this one don’t you think? This Premier 10 fixture seems to be a case of how many United will win by more so than whether they will win. After all, there is nothing like a United side scorned!
Old Men Against Young Boys
United were beaten by Portsmouth in the FA Cup last weekend and if they follow their normal pattern of 5 defeats followed by 5 wins this season, the Rams should fear the worst. The Red Devils have won their last 2 League matches, both against struggling sides Newcastle and Fulham. They also scored a total of 8 goals in those games so spare a thought for Derby’s aged defence this weekend against the talented whipper snapper’s Ronaldo, Rooney and Tevez. After all, 3 of Derby’s back four from their last match have a combined age of 104, so expect some aches in the old joints in the morning boys!
Rams Lack Cutting Edge
It is difficult to see United conceding in this game as the Rams remain toothless in attack and the Red Devils solid at the back. Derby have failed to score in 3 of their last 4 games against teams far weaker than this weekends opponents (Tottenham, Wigan and Sunderland). They’ve not managed to score more than a single goal in a match in the last 11 games. United have kept clean-sheets in 4 of their last 7 away matches so expect that run to be extended.
Fergie’s Firepower & Derby’s Season Ticket Woe
Fergie’s sides have now scored in their last 14 League matches in succession; they’ve also racked up 35 goals in the process. If United do put out their strongest line-up, they should strengthen their impressive goal difference even further, particularly when you consider Chelsea banged in 6 against the Rams in midweek. United fans are almost guaranteed plenty of goals and excitement but poor Derby season ticket holders have had little to enjoy this season. Their only win this season came back in September and they’ve only celebrated 3 goals at Pride Park for 5 and half months. Not exactly value for money is it?
The Rams haven’t beaten United at home for 19 years. However, in this period the Red Devils have made just 7 visits to Derby, 5 of those games were drawn and United won twice. I doubt that statistic will put you off picking Fergie’s side to win this weekend and why should it? After all, this is surely the biggest ‘banker’ on the Premier 10 fixture list.
Pundit’s Pick: Rams ripped apart by the Red Devils (away win) Do you agree with this result for your Premier 10 prediction? Play Now>>
Tags: Derby, Manchester United, Premier 10 preview, Premier League, Rams, Red Devils
