Guardian match report here and Michael Cox's analysis is here.
Clearly, this is what the players are capable of.
In my earlier post, I predicted a score draw, but Spurs never looked likely to claw their way back after a wonderful start from United.
Carrick released Fellaini with a first-time slide rule pass into the box, and Mop Head finished with aplomb. Then Carrick guided in a header inside the box, and after only 30 mins, United were 2-0 up.
Wayne Rooney then did something I haven't seen him do in a while, rampaging past a static defence to put United beyond reach. The rest of the game was comfortably seen out, and even Rafael and Andreas Pereira got a run out.
Spurs defenders were easily knocked over, but this game showed that United have the capacity to play on the ground to devastating effect. Crisp passing, good tempo, and clever running created (easy looking) chances that were tucked away.
Key man for me was Carrick - his guile and calmness on the ball were terribly missed, in my view. Herrera and Mata linked up well in midfield too. And this game is further proof that Rooney does not belong in midfield, and Ashley Young is a better left winger than a left wing-back.
Looking ahead, United have their tails up going into their next game, Liverpool at Anfield. Hopefully, Louis van Gaal goes into that game with the same mindset, looking to attack Liverpool's weaknesses rather than trying to stifle their attack.
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