For the first time in a long time, Liverpool have started to do what Manchester United have managed for 15 years - to leave with something after a game they should lose. Wigan today pushed Benitez's outfit probably as far as anyone they had faced thus far this season, and yet somehow the Reds left with the 3 points that everyone (myself included) had expected at start of play, despite twice trailing at home.
Is this the sign of a new mentally toughened Liverpool, and more importantly, realistic challengers for Big Phil's Chelsea to confront? It does appear that the Blues have gone back to being the Mourinho style unstoppable juggernaut. With Ronaldo out of the picture for a short time (thankfully) it does seem that United haven't quite clicked into gear yet, and the two title pretenders have taken a flying start. Even if United win their game in hand following the inevitable crushing of WBA tonight (Rooney to bag a hatful anyone?), they'll still be trailing by 3 points at this early stage.
This should make for a fascinating autumn and winter, as the weather closes in and the pitches get heavy, we'll see if the likes of Deco and Bosingwa still look settled and whether Fergie's outfit do their usual winter charge. I'm sure Scolari's approach won't change, he's far too canny a manager to start second guessing the conditions. He's has taken Chelsea onwards without much of an overhaul, most managers would have given their right arm for the squad at Stamford Bridge, and he has quietly got on with things, taking the Blues to the top of the table with very little even making the news. And Liverpool are finally (perhaps) living up to their star studded squad. Another season of 3rd or 4th in the Premisership and Champions League qualification surely won't be tolerated by Anfield fans or board.
Anyway , it's all good news for the premiership - vive la difference!
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