Yes, I know: we were playing Championship opposition and we shouldn't get too excited. And yes, it was a good performance rather than a brilliant one.
Nevertheless, there was much to be pleased about from a United supporter's point of view. I don't think it's a failure to be consistently brilliant that Reds fans are unhappy with: it's a failure to play without imagination and adventure and last night there were signs of a team attempting to do that.
All three goals were the result of good build-up play in the opponent's half and clinical execution. Rooney's curling effort for the first was a further sign that he's getting back to his best form. The third goal illustrated again what an exciting talent we have on our hands in the form of Anthony Martial, whose run into the box and cut-back for Juan Mata to score was the highlight of the night.
Sandwiched between them was a goal that best illustrated the difference between this win and that appallingly sterile performance against Southampton. Then, it appeared players were afraid to venture out of position, to move, to create space and to take the occasional risk (not unusual this season, I know).
Last night Daley Blind (left) played a ball out of defence to Mata defence, continued his run for the return pass and, when he didn't get it, ran in to fill a vacant position at the near post, before latching onto Lingard's cross and regaining the lead for the Reds. Yes, a defender was allowed to venture into the area and didn't come back with a nosebleed: take note, LVG and coaching team.
That goal alone is why Reds can surely allow themselves to feel a little happier this morning. Let's just hope it doesn't all go back to square one against Stoke on Tuesday.
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