Quickies: United v Birmingham City

Man of the Match: Evra

A goal line clearance, constant forages into attack, dominant defending.

Star Performers: Rooney, Fletcher and Berbatov

Rooney scored and did what he does best, lead the attack.

Fletcher was a strong leader, constantly encouraging Fabio and Valencia in particular.

Berbatov's link up play and touch was different class. Consistency and goals needed

Underperformers: Fabio

Fabio looked shaky, lunging ino tackles and getting cought out. Improved as the game wore on.

The Opposition: Dogged

Birmingham were solid, and their tackling was impressive. Joe Hart pulled off world class saves.

Moment of the Match: Evra’s goal line clearance.

Birmingham had the momentum, and a goal then would have taken the game back to the edgy play of the opening half.

Old Trafford: A bit subdued as the action on the pitch didn't get the vocal cords going.

Away Fans: Large numbers, loud, and a couple of good chants “We’re gonna win the league”.

Stretford End: “England’s Number 10, England England’s Number 10” at Joe Hart.

Fakht of the Day: 17 shots on target

Thoughts of the Day:

Where was Carrick? Rumours about a bust up with Fergie should turn out to be rubbish.

If only Fletcher could shoot.

Finally a win on opening day.