No title for United but Stoke put to the sword
United finish runners-up
By Chris,
May 10 2010
Chelsea’s thrashing win over Wigan meant there was to be no title-winning party at Old Trafford on Sunday. Anti-Glazer protests dominated proceedings as United cruised to a 4-0 victory over Stoke to ensure they finished a whopping 22 points ahead of seventh-placed Liverpool.
Sunday could have been one of the biggest days in Manchester United’s history. The Red Devils needed to beat Stoke City and hope Wigan got a point at Stamford Bridge to become the first English club to win the league championship in four successive seasons. However, it ultimately turned out to be a surreal afternoon. Though United cruised to a 4-0 win over the hapless Potters, news of Chelsea’s jaw-dropping 8-0 win over Wigan left supporters in a sombre mood. The atmosphere wasn’t helped by the travelling Stoke masses making complete and utter tits of themselves. The majority, it seemed, were not even watching the game. Instead, they chose to celebrate each of Chelsea’s goals with such wild hysteria that you’d have thought the Potters had just won a major trophy for the first time in 38 years. Chants of “You’re going to win F**k all from the away end” were constant. Perhaps the Stoke fans need reminding that United have already won the League Cup this season. The game was largely a stroll in the park for the Red Devils. Chelsea were already ahead in West London when Darren Fletcher fired home the game’s first goal from close range, before Ryan Giggs completed a fine passing move with the second of the afternoon. Sir Alex Ferguson’s men sealed maximum points when ex-Red Danny Higginbotham turned into his own net before an impressive header from substitute Ji-Sung Park made it four in the closing minutes. As Chelsea fired home their eighth goal, Stoke fans were clearly so enamoured with their 4-0 thrashing at Old Trafford that they enjoyed further wild celebrations. It was quite embarrassing. Fergie took to the pitch after full-time to thank the fans for their support over the season. The media will no doubt claim United have failed – but finishing second, reaching the last eight of the European Cup and winning the League Cup is hardly a catastrophe. The players then enjoyed a lap of honour – though none of them followed David Beckham’s lead bny donning a green & gold scarf, despite the fact literally hundreds were hurled onto the pitch by hopeful supporters. Fans can now look forward to the World Cup. Though Wayne Rooney hobbled off in the closing stages of the game, the injury is not expected to damage his chances of flying to South Africa. The likes of Rio Ferdinand and Michael Carrick will be expected to join him. Full Time – Manchester United 4-0 Stoke CityAttendance – 75,316
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