I was apparently watching a different game from the rest of the fan base today, as I thought we were absolutely exceptional. We never looked in danger even for a minute, as Pickford didn’t have to make a single save beyond catching the ball from a weak header. Defensively, we were utterly perfect.
Granted, we didn’t get much going in the first half when we were in the opposition half but we sprung out of the gates in the second 45 with a stunning Gylfi Sigurdsson goal after a piece of magic by Dominic Calvert-Lewin. It set the mood for the second half as we controlled every aspect of the game and came away worthy 2-0 winners.
Across the team there were some very good performances and it was extremely encouraging to see Allardyce, Sammy Lee and Duncan Ferguson up and barking orders on the sideline for 90 minutes instead of sitting, arms folded like previous managerial teams.
It was a great 3 points and puts us in good stead for next weekend (*gulp*).
Here’s how we got on.
Jordan Pickford - 7
Pickford had literally nothing to do.
However he time wasted quite well at the end.
Jonjoe Kenny - 8
He was excellent at the back and it is looking like he might be some competition for Coleman rather than just his placeholder.
Ashley Williams - 7
Another solid game from the Welshman as he won all of his aerial duels and neutralised the Huddersfield attack well.
Mason Holgate - 8
Holgate was superb today as he looked like a veteran defender.
His pace was once again effective and beyond that, he was certainly not lacking in the air.
As he was is how he should be. The first name on the teamsheet.
Cuco Martina - 8
An astonishing performance as Martina didn’t let a single attacker faze him for the 90 minutes and grew in confidence in the second half, venturing forward when he could.
More of them please Cuco.
Idrissa Gana Gueye - 7
A string of two good performances can hopefully return Gana back to his best.
His tackling game was much improved today and his willingness to get forward was appreciated.
Wayne Rooney - 7
An excellent ball to DCL for his goal to cap off the game also capped off Rooney’s game, being withdrawn shortly after.
However he was a calming influence throughout and always made himself available for the ball.
Tom Davies - 7
Davies was excellent at frustrating the Huddersfield defence today, drawing foul after foul early on.
He was unjustly booked which limited his tackling game but adapted well and stuck at it until he was withdrawn.
Gylfi Sigurdsson - 8
His touches and plays are finally coming off and he was rewarded once again today with a great goal just after the restart.
Let’s hope he can keep it up because we’ve seen now the player he can be.
Aaron Lennon - 8
I absolutely love Aaron Lennon, let’s just get that out the way.
He worked tirelessly again today and was the catalyst that sparked the side into life, creating the opportunity for the first goal.
He needs to be playing every week in my eyes, as he contributes so much to the attack and the defence that we sorely miss him when he’s not here.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin - 9
The lesser-spotted goal reared its head today for DCL.
He was finally paid back for his immense work rate and teamplay. He was exceptional as an outlet for Pickford once again.
An assist and a goal capped off a great display.
Subs -
Ademola Lookman – 5
Looked up for the game and tried to create chances with Kenny down the right.
Morgan Schneiderlin- 2
Just gave the ball away a bit. Don’t really know why he came on.