Manchester United vs the x Men

This mornings game against Sunderland was a look back at the past for some fans, with Sunderland fielding Dwight Yorke, Andy Cole, Kieron Richardson and Keano running the show. But the cellar-dwellers had no chance against a rampant United and the 3-0 halftime score reflected the absolute control that United had. The first goal, a borderline offside, that Rooney put away. For the second it was Rooney the provider as he crossed a beautiful ball for Saha to guide in and the third just before half-time, a Ronaldo special, a freekick just outside the box that curved and spun into the net, leaving the Sunderland keeper standing and watching. After such an impressive first half, the pace eased in the second and it was up to Saha to score an 80th minute penalty to wrap up the scoring. All in all, a good performance and more Christmas booty, now its time to deal it to the Hammers.

Of note, the performance of Rooney as a provider, a role he delved into a couple of seasons ago when he had difficulty scoring and turned to helping others. His talent in this role could provide for a great future later as the younger attacking demons encroach on his strikers role.