Five Things we learned from the Manchester derby

1. City are just this close to win their third League title Ever

The title race is almost over for United after the Derby Day defeat. It is out of United’s hands now with just two games left in the season. City are ahead of United with just goal difference separating the two teams of Manchester. United had a poor run throughout the match with just three attempts on goal compared to City’s 11. Players were affected because of the mind games and it was clearly visible with the nasty tackles made by both the teams. Kompany’s first half goal made the difference between the two clubs. City are just this close to winning their third league title ever.

2. Park was a gamble that did not work out for Fergie

Park ji Sung was the fifth man in United’s midfield which did make a strong case for the club against City. Park was very poor in midfield and did not provide much support for Wayne Rooney nor did he support United’s defence. Park could not match the pace of Yaya Toure nor Barry. Toure and Barry controlled the midfield. Park was never a threat to City’s defence which led Clichy and Zabelata to push forward in the first half. Overall Park had a poor game and when he was replaced by Danny Welbeck in 57^th minute, the game livened up a bit.

3. Mancini’s mind games did work against Fergie

Finally Mancini’s mind games did work against Fergie. Mancini had written off City to win the title three weeks ago. Even last week Mancini said that United will win the title. The effect of the mind games was clearly visible on and off the field. Referee had a tough game with more cards shown to players of both the team. The pressure and frustration was clearly visible on both the Managers. Both Managers were out of their seats in the second half and had a heated exchange. Mancini did have the last laugh. Mancini 1- 0 Fergie

4. United’s poor defence have cost them their Silverware 

Sir Alex really needs to review his defence. Most of the Goals conceded by United this season came from the right wing.  United had a bad start this season with David De Gea having some nervy moments in front of the goal. Rio Ferdinand is not in good shape like he was 3 -4 years ago. With Vidic out for most of the season was a major blow for United this season. United need to find a permanent right back but Rafael or Jones could not be the permanent solution. Evra is one player who has been very poor for United this season. Zabelata was spending most of the time in United’s half with not much pressure from neither Evra nor Giggs. Evans was the only defender who had a decent season but still needs some time back there.

5. United need to keep their cheque book ready during the summer

United need to buy more players during this summer Transfer window. Sir Alex needs to find a player who can fill in the boots of Paul Scholes and control the tempo of the game for United. Fergie’s major concern this season is his defence. Sir Alex should consider buying a full time left and right back. Fergie might off load Berbatov, Anderson and United’s current skipper Patrice Evra which could bring in some money for United. But the Million Dollar question is will the Glazers give enough money to Sir Alex Ferguson to spend during the transfer window? If yes will Fergie buy at least four Players?  Only time will tell us. It will be a crazy summer transfer as there are already lots of link ups and rumours.