The FA Community Shield: Has David Moyes finally settled in at Old Trafford?

Ever since taking over the reins at Old Trafford, David Moyes has been the most-talked about figure in England. The never ending debate on whether he is the right man for the job continues till date.

The failure to sign any desired targets in the transfer market and the Wayne Rooney saga has him at cut-throats with the United faithful. To add salt to injury, their awful pre season hasn’t helped him either. But, with the Community Shield win today, it seems that Moyes has finally answered his critics.

Though the FA Community shield is hardly a trophy that United should be content with winning, a piece of silverware to start the season with doesn’t hurt. It will also boost confidence amongst the United faithful and the squad that Moyes is the right man for the job.

An Analysis of the game from Manchester United’s Perspective

For most of the first half, United dominated possession, did not give away the ball and attacked from the word go. The first goal came courtesy of a brilliant header from none other than our very own, Robin Van Persie. Evra curled in a cross from outside the box and it went straight to the Dutchman, who headed it straight into the bottom corner at the far post. The header was characterised by accuracy, control and just the correct amount of power applied to hit the back of the net.

Wigan created a few chances in the later stages of the first half. They even managed to force an equalizer had it not been for the woodwork. But, it was United who dominated the first half.

The second half started a bit differently. Wigan came out playing more freely, attacking a bit more. But, they could not break the United defence. In the 59th minute, a couple of beautifully strung passes around the box allowed United to double their lead. This time again, it was the Dutchman who found the back of the net. A beautiful strike with a deflection from Ben Watson, ensured the goal to be all but over.

One man who continues to amaze me and everyone else was Ryan Giggs. He is like wine. The older he gets, the better he becomes. Watching him play is just amazing. Just knowing the fact that the veteran still has it in him to deliver at the highest level would take a great burden of Moyes’ back. The way he was fighting for possession, stringing passes and making sliding tackles would have given the manager the much needed confidence.

Others including Robin van Persie, Vidic and Evra also delivered. Notably, Evra was excellent with 48 passes, 81% passes completion, one header and two tackles won.

Wilfried Zaha was excellent on the wings. Darting forward, making runs and delivering accurate crosses in the box. There was one cross which could have helped United double their lead. Welbeck, however, couldn’t find the back of the net. He completed 29 passes with 86% passing accuracy.

Danny Welbeck was also impressive. His positioning was good enough while receiving the ball. He also tested Scott Carson twice in the first half. Tom Cleverly also proved that he is cut out for United’s midfield.

The overall verdict being the brand of football United played was a treat to watch. Free flowing football, nicely-strung passes, possession not given away cheaply and the ball pressing were commendable with an overall possession of 60%.

Now, many of you would argue about Wigan being a Championship side. I completely agree with the fact that United were the favourites to win and there should not be much ado about today.

However, the fact remains that United under Moyes have started clicking. This victory in the curtain raiser will give them the momentum required to perform in the League.

The main task, which Moyes has at hand, is to ride on this momentum and perform against the likes of Mourinho, Pelligrini and Wenger.