The Road to the Promised Land: Chapter 40

Fierce Battle in El Bernabéu :Previous «Home Page» Next: Family Comes First, Familiar Faces
== Demolition Derby ==
On the day that followed the elimination of Real Madrid, Manchester United finally found out who their UEFA Champions League semi-final opponent was going to be: F.C. Bayern Munich – the richest and the most successful club in Germany. The team from Bavaria knocked Tottenham Hotspur out with a 2-1 win in London (April 9) and a 4-0 win in Munich (April 17). Millions of fans worldwide were already anticipating a high-octane confrontation between the 2 European giants.
Back in the Premier League, some tricky matches came up. At Selhurst Park in London, the Red Devils were held to a 0-0 draw by a very resilient Crystal Palace team (April 20). Kakeru and his teammates left more energy in Madrid than they could recover before playing against Crystal Palace, but they never used that as an excuse. Nevertheless, that result bore no grave consequences because Arsenal also drew their own match on the same weekend. Then United battered Burnley by a score of 5-0 in the following Premier League match at Old Trafford (April 24); Kakeru bagged his 37th and 38th goals in all club competitions for the campaign in that match. After 35 Premier League matches played by all teams, United still had a 3-point lead and a superior goal difference over Arsenal at the top of the title race.
With only 3 matches left to play in the Premier League campaign, the Red Devils were closer to a league title than they have ever been in years. But standing in the way to their goal were the defending champions and cross-town rivals: Manchester City. The Citizens were trailing by 5 points away from the top, and thus a win was imperative as it was their last chance to keep their own title race alive. However, the situation also meant that the Red Devils had the opportunity to finish off one of their 2 main rivals once and for all with a win. For the last time of the Premier League season, it was red against blue in Manchester.
Saturday April 27
The Bishop Blaize, Manchester, UK
3:25 PM BST
At the Bishop Blaize, the Manchester United supporters who wanted to get warmed up with drinks and songs were not disappointed as the singing was pretty vocal as usual before any big match. With the context of the Manchester derby obliging, the songs were mostly aimed against City. The first song in this chapter testified the pride of being red rather than blue. Although the song lyrics do not apply at all to Noriko's nor Sarah's respective families, both women got into the sing-along that expressed the pride of being red over blue for local Mancunians who support United.
I'd rather s*** a bucket with a big hole in itThan be a City fan! All together now!My old man said "Be a City fan",And I said: "Bollocks, you're a ****!" (You're a ****!)
I'd rather s*** a bucket with a big hole in itThan be a City fan for just one minute,With hatchets and hammers,Stanley knives and spanners,We'll show the City bastards how to fight (how to fight).
"YEAH! How to fight!" Noriko shouted.
"Have some of that, City!" Sarah added.
A handful of minutes later, everyone looked at the TV screen where Sky Sports News showed the arrival of the Manchester United team at Old Trafford. The supporters inside the pub cheered as loudly as ever, especially when Kakeru was shown arriving in front of the camera. Needless to say, the sight of Kakeru's arrival prompted the singing of the Kakeru song.
Aizawa, wa, wa, he's better than KagawaAizawa, wa, wa, he's a red and white ninjaTo the left, to the right, he's a bloody dynamiteWhen he plays for the reds, he makes Bernardi look shite.
"The Kakeru song never gets old." Noriko said.
"I would love it if Kakeru can make Bernardi look like a fool again today." Sarah replied.
"He will have some form of vengeance in his mind. Don't worry about that."
"I can't wait to see that, Noriko." Sarah finished.
The singing carried on a little. But as soon as the TV broadcast showed the arrival of the Manchester City players, cheers and chants turned into loud boos and insults from the Manchester United faithful.
"BOOOOOOO!!!" Sarah poured it on as the rest of the crowd in the pub did the same.
"UNITED! UNITED! UNITED!" Noriko shouted, to which it was soon repeated in full voice by the supporters in the pub.
Furthermore, the booing took another level from the very moment Ricardo "Ricky" Bernardi was shown on the TV screen. People started shouting all kinds of expletives against Ricky, and it didn't take long before a new and improvised anti-Ricky chant, which is based on something that was sung about former United-to-City turncoat Carlos Tevez, popped up among the supporters.
Who's that T*** from Argentina?Who's that stinking sexist scum?Bernardi is his name and he hasn't got a brain,And he won't be looking again at his mum.
"Hahahaha!!!" Sarah laughed. "Outright savage! They better bring that out loud inside Old Trafford."
"That would be absolute gold if they do!" Noriko replied. "That piece of trash deserves real abuse after what he did."
"Looks like he will get plenty today."
"Plenty and for all tastes too, Sarah."
"If we can get this pumped up early, I just hope to see the whole team coming out with the same energy."
"I'm sure they are pumped up too. Kakeru told me about how everyone on the team has been wanting to make City pay so bad after everything that happened in the game back in December." Noriko said.
"How long until we get on our way to the stadium?" Sarah asked.
"I say give it 20 or 25 more minutes. Let's see, hear, and breathe more of this atmosphere before we go and meet up with my dad and my granddad." Noriko replied.
Manchester United vs. Manchester City (Premier League match 36)
Old Trafford, Manchester, UK
5:13 PM BST (17 minutes before kickoff)
In the Manchester United dressing room, the players were in the late stages of their mental preparation before the match. Everyone was eager to take part in the action against their cross-town rivals, but they were working hard to keep the excitement and other strong emotions in check as well. Minutes before the players would walk out, Andrew Butler gave them one final pre-match talk.
"All right, guys, listen up... I don't think I need to tell you what this match means for us, for them, and for the league table; you already know all of that. We are really close of achieving something that has not been done for a number of years now: winning the Premier League for this great club. Perhaps it's fate that puts us up against the defending champions today, but we have defeated them before. We can do it again today. You know the drill, we spent the week preparing ourselves, and we tore Burnley apart so we can be ready for this match. Keep your focus, believe in yourselves, and believe in the player next to you at all times. This is the time of the season when champions are made. This is the time when history is written. SO GET OUT THERE AND TAKE WHAT'S YOURS!" Andrew said.
"COME ON, GUYS!" Matthias shouted.
The players gave a good round of applause, cheers, and rallying shouts. Just as they did before the match against Arsenal back in February, the players gathered together one little guessing game led by Matthias before the players would walk out of the dressing room.
"Anyone here from Croydon?" Matthias asked.
"Oh, that's Spider!" Erik replied.
"Hey! Here!" Joel said while the other players cheered.
"Happy days in Croydon." Matthias said. "What about Copenhagen? Any Copenhagen boy here?"
"Yeeeah!" the players cheered while Nikolaj stood up to show himself as the Copenhagen native.
"Have we got Cartagena, in Colombia?" Matthias asked.
"That's me!" Santiago replied with a smile.
"Beautiful man from Cartagena, of course. Have we got Cork, Ireland?"
"Oi, that would be me." Aidan, standing as one of the substitutes, replied under the cheers of his teammates.
"There he is, the Irish lad!" Matthias said. "I'm looking for 2 players who were students in a place named Enoshima."
"Ah, that's me!" Kakeru replied with a smile.
"Same for me!" Nana added.
"Great! Lovely power couple from Enoshima High School!" Matthias said.
The players applauded Kakeru and Nana loudly before everyone quieted down ahead of Matthias' next question.
"Does anyone here come from around... Eastlands?"
In response, the players tapped their cleats the floor of the dressing room, producing a drum-like noise.
"No? Nothing? Good... because I bloody hate Eastlands. So-called nice stadium handed in with public taxes, oil money pouring everywhere, but can't even sell out matches with real fans... SHUT UP, YOU NOISY NEIGHBOURS!" Matthias said with a very mocking tone.
"YEAH!!" Marius shouted.
"COME ON!!" Nikolaj added.
"Am I right?" Matthias asked.
"RIGHT!!" the players replied.
"AM I RIGHT?!!" Matthias repeated his question even louder, with fire almost pouring out of his eyes.
"YEEEEEAAAAH!!!" the players shouted as they got off their seats, all pumped up.
"WELL, LET'S GO! COME ON, GUYS!!" Matthias galvanized the troops before he led them out of the dressing room, ready to play the biggest game of the season thus far.
5:22 PM BST (8 minutes before kickoff)
Beyond the 3 points at stake, the upcoming Manchester derby was also the first confrontation involving Ricky Bernardi against Kakeru and Nana since Ricky injured Kakeru on purpose with a vicious tackle and then verbally abused Nana with misogynistic words in the same sequence. Ricky didn't like the fact that Nana left him hanging out to dry by turning down his (half-hearted) apology attempts. Among the Manchester United players and supporters, the Argentine defender was regarded as Public Enemy No. 1. The presence of all heroes and villains of the last Manchester derby in the same tunnel was a tinderbox waiting to catch on fire upon the slightest spark.
"You could have shown a polite response when I tried to reach you." Ricky said to Nana.
"What for? You were never convincing about being repentant. I was never falling for that." Nana dryly replied.
"If that's how it is, then expect me to go after you and finish off what I started with your man." Ricky played the intimidation card.
"Hey. You've got a problem? You talk straight to me." Kakeru came in the conversation, disgusted by how Ricky specifically targeted Nana.
"Last time I faced you, Aizawa, I sent you to hospital. Haven't got enough?"
"If you pick on Nana, I will kick you into the stands." Kakeru replied.
"Same with me." Yusuke added.
Although most players on both sides did not understand one word of Japanese, they were closely watching the conversation, ready to intervene should there be a real altercation coming up.
"Typical Japanese. You think you're tough when you try going against bigger than you, but you're weak. You punks will do nothing just like when Leo, Pat, and I destroyed your entire high school soccer division once. Can't wait to see you going home crying."
Wanting to shove Ricky's words back down his throat, Kakeru and Nana made half of a step towards the Argentine. However, Yusuke held both of his friends in line.
"On the pitch, you two." Yusuke said to Kakeru and to Nana before he shifted his gaze back on Ricky. "You'll have your chance."
"I'll see you out there!" Kakeru said, the finger pointed with threatening intent towards Ricky.
"I will shake your hand later. Not because I like it, but because that's my job and because my boss demanded me to end controversies. Otherwise, you don't deserve a handshake at all." Nana added.
"Yeah, right." Ricky replied.
Moments later, Martin Atkinson led both teams out of the tunnel. The veteran Atkinson is regarded as the best referee in England and a perfect choice for such an important confrontation in front of this huge and very partisan crowd.
Alan Keegan: Old Trafford, this is the Theatre of Dreams. Will you please welcome Manchester City and MANCHESTER UNITED!!!
The Manchester United players were welcome by the loudest cheers so far in the season from the Old Trafford faithful. However, some of the Manchester United supporters in the South Stand and in the Stretford End started booing when they saw Ricky in the Manchester City starting XI. Nevertheless, the booing stopped rather quickly.
As both teams lined up in front of the South Stand, they waited for the Premier League Intro theme to kick in before the Manchester City players started walking towards the referees and then line of Manchester United players. All eyes and the TV camera were on Ricky as he made his way towards the Manchester United players. Standing after Nikolaj was Nana, who was next in line for the handshake. But instead of shaking hands with Nana, Ricky chose to move onto the next person
"Hey!" Nana tried to grab Ricky's arm, but to no avail.
In the immediate aftermath, Nana looked at the camera for a split second with one hand up and pointed at Ricky as a "WTF?" gesture before the next Manchester City player shook hands with her. Meanwhile, Yusuke and Kakeru responded to Ricky's snub by snubbing the handshake in return as well.
Meanwhile in the stands:
"Did you see that?" Noriko asked.
"Yeah. Bernardi did a Luis Suárez of himself." Sarah replied.
"He just snubbed Nana in the handshakes. It looks like Kakeru and Yusuke did the same to Bernardi in response too." Robert said.
"This guy must be enjoying controversy if he does that." Harry added. "I can understand when players don't like each other, but one handshake could have solved the problem."
"If Bernardi wants to cause a bigger problem that no one needed, then I hope Kakeru, Nana, and Yusuke will make him regret it on the scoreboard." Noriko said.
"Right. Hurting bigots on the scoreline is the best revenge." Sarah finished.
Your television commentary team for this match: Gary Neville and, first, Martin Tyler.
Martin Tyler: Well, that was not the most mature response from Ricardo Bernardi, who had an opportunity to put an end to the controversy involving him and Nana Mishima since December. In the last meeting between these 2 teams, Bernardi was sent off for a dangerous tackle that sidelined Kakeru Aizawa for a month, but then Bernardi shouted sexist language at Mishima seconds later. The Argentina international received a 10-match ban in total for both incidents, but it looks like there could be more in store between him and Manchester United's Japanese players today.
On the main TV broadcast, the graphic showed the starting XI for the home team. Andrew Butler sent the following players in a 4-3-3 formation: Jan Farkas (goalkeeper), Joel Muamba (right-back), Erik Johansson (centre-back), Matthias Köhler (centre-back and captain), Jeremy Williams (left-back), Nana Mishima (central midfielder), Yusuke Saeki (central midfielder), Nikolaj Kristiansen (central midfielder), Santiago Araya (right forward), Marius van Leeuwen (striker), and Kakeru Aizawa (left forward). The Manchester United field players wore red shirts, white shorts, and black socks.
Martin Tyler: After the conceding of 3 goals against Real Madrid, Jan Farkas has allowed none in the last 2 matches. In the defence, Jeremy Williams plays at left-back in replacement of Andrew Shaw, who has been taken out as a precaution following a knock. Erik Johansson returns at centre-back to replace Adewale Makinde, who had a strong outing against Burnley. Yusuke Saeki came on as a substitute in the last Manchester derby, but he's in today along with Nana Mishima, who is preferred to Aidan Whelan. Up front, Marius van Leeuwen returns in the striker's position after he was kept in reserve against Burnley. Kakeru Aizawa and Santiago Araya support him.
Then the graphic changed to show the Manchester City starting lineup. Meanwhile in the stadium, boos were the loudest when Alan Keegan announced Ricky's name in the City lineup.
Martin Tyler: Manchester City have gone with this XI. Ederson in goal. But the big issue here is at left-back: Mendy is injured, Delph suspended, and now Zinchenko dropped. Aymeric Laporte is pushed in that direction tonight. Fernandinho's return had the desired and galvanizing effect in midweek. Same with Kevin De Bruyne. In attack, Bernardo Silva and Raheem Sterling will look forward to use their speed on the wings.
Manchester City's starting XI looked as followed in a 4-3-3 setup: Ederson (goalkeeper), Kyle Walker (right-back), John Stones (centre-back), Ricardo Bernardi (centre-back), Aymeric Laporte (left-back), Kevin De Bruyne (central midfielder), Fernandinho (central midfielder), David Silva (central midfielder and acting captain), Bernardo Silva (right forward), Sergio Agüero (striker), and Raheem Sterling (left forward). The field players wore sky blue shirts, white shorts, and white socks.
Martin Tyler: With only 2 weeks left to the Premier League season after today, you have to feel this match could decide the destiny of the Premier League. With Arsenal winning their match yesterday, both sides know what is at stake. Can Manchester City win and live to fight another day? Or is this going to be the day when Manchester United bury their local rivals once and for all in this title race? We are about to find out. It's a Manchester derby, perhaps the biggest of all, here at Old Trafford, and it's LIVE!!!
Following the coin toss, both opposing sides moved to their assigned positions. As it is often the case, United had their eyes looking at the East Stand for the first half while the visiting team was set to attack towards the Stretford End to the West. But this time, United were set to kick the match off. The referee's opening whistle resonated as the clock reached 5:30 PM.
PEEEP!
Martin Tyler: Well, here we go!
The Red Devils kicked things off by passing the ball between themselves from their own half before they started launching their first attack forward. Nikolaj took the pass from Matthias before the Dane ran across the halfway line.
Martin Tyler: Kristiansen... making a run forward. He has options ahead of him.
The Dane managed to make his way beyond one of the City midfielders before he attempted a through pass intended for Marius. However, the ball rolled too far ahead before it was caught by Ederson's hands.
Martin Tyler: Too far for Van Leeuwen. Easy picking for Ederson.
Having caught the ball in his hands, the Brazilian goalkeeper waited for the Manchester United players to retreat a little. Then Ederson made a passing throw towards Ricky, who was soon chased by Kakeru.
Martin Tyler: Now it's Bernardi. Aizawa's after him...
Having switched wings with Santiago momentarily, Kakeru was playing on the right wing at the moment when he ran after Ricky. The Argentine defender ran with the ball over a few yards ahead of him and towards the touchline. But from the moment when Kakeru was in a position to go shoulder on shoulder, the Japanese forward pushed Ricky hard and out of bounds. Slipping down the slope alongside the pitch, Ricky collided with the metal railing from the first row in the South Stand. The Argentine defender in a sky blue shirt rolled on the floor, grimacing with pain as he held his left arm.
PEEP!
Martin Tyler: That's a heavy fall by Bernardi. Aizawa gave a little help on that.
A throw-in was called in favor of Manchester United as the ball went out of play. The nearby spectators in the South Stand stood up altogether to applaud Kakeru's sneaky shove against Public Enemy No 1. The United supporters also hurled all kinds of verbal abuse at the downed Ricky. Seconds later, a few City players were harsh words with Kakeru. They were not happy at the way Kakeru used the slope alongside the pitch as a weapon against an opponent. However, Kakeru's teammates also rushed to protect him.
"Hey! What's wrong with you, you little shite?" John Stones asked.
"Taking the trash out. I owed him that." Kakeru replied.
"Go after him, you'll get all of us!" Kevin De Bruyne joined the heated conversation.
"What are you gonna do, Ginger? What are you gonna do?" Kakeru chirped back at the Belgian.
"OK, OK. Leave it!" the referee Atkinson ordered the players on both sides to disperse.
"He got the message, Knight." Marius stood in to pull Kakeru away.
"Kakeru, come here." Martin Atkinson ordered.
Kakeru walked his way to the referee, who was about to give him a talk while the other players were dispersing.
"Listen, Kakeru. That was shoulder to shoulder on the player with the ball, which is why I didn't call a foul there. But that was also dangerous because of the slope. If I see you go like that again at a player, you will get in the book." Martin Atkinson said. "Is that clear?"
"Yeah, it's clear." Kakeru replied.
"Consider that as my only warning. Away you go." Atkinson said.
Martin Tyler: Just a word from Martin Atkinson to Kakeru Aizawa. Ricardo Bernardi is still being attended.
As Kakeru walked back into a more defensive position, he took a short glance at the Argentine defender being treated momentarily by City's medical staff. The Japanese forward frowned at Ricky before he walked away.
"Well, you have quite some way to get rid of the trash." Nana said.
"This is only a taste. Let's hurt them where they hate the most." Kakeru replied.
The little shoving incident involving Kakeru on Ricky left no further damage to the Argentine defender, who was cleared to continue by the Manchester City medical staff after a checkup. Even though that contact was painful at first glance for Ricky, it was still nothing compared to what he was about to endure a few minutes later.
In the 5th minute:
Martin Tyler: Chip pass towards Bernardo Silva. Headed back by Williams.
Inside the Manchester United half, the City players were trying to build an attack. However, a pass that destined to Bernardo Silva was headed away by Jeremy. The ball was going towards Kevin De Bruyne, who let it bounce off the ground before attempting to keep the attack alive. However, Yusuke and Nikolaj successfully double-teamed the Belgian to recover the ball. Yusuke first made the pass towards Nikolaj, who then ran with the ball across the halfway line and into the City half.
Martin Tyler: Unselfish work by Saeki. Kristiansen on the move again...
Then the Danish midfielder in red attempted another through pass towards Marius. John Stones appeared for a split second like he could get to the ball first, but Marius arrived with a well-timed shoulder challenge to knock the City defender off his run just inside the City penalty area.
Martin Tyler: He's letting slide on the side of Stones. Van Leeuwen...
Having taken the ball, Marius cut his run to the right before he got the ball on his right foot. Then the Dutch striker took a quick shot on goal, which was saved by Ederson.
Martin Tyler: Saved by Ederson!
With enough power behind the shot, Ederson could not control the rebound as it quickly rolled outside and in front of the City penalty area. Prowling for the rebound, Kakeru recovered the ball a split second before he unleashed the shot towards the City goal. Then Ricky threw himself in front of the shot, but…
"OOOOOOHHHHHH!!!" the Old Trafford crowd shouted in unison as they saw something.
Martin Tyler: Oh, was that hand ball by Bernardi?!
"HAND BALL!!!" Kakeru shouted.
As Kakeru's shot was flying towards the goal, Ricky threw a free arm out of instinct to block the shot. Alongside the crowd, all Manchester United players in the vicinity shouted for a hand ball foul. Martin Atkinson immediately blew his whistle before he pointed towards the penalty spot, much to the satisfaction of the home crowd.
Martin Tyler: It is! Penalty for Manchester United!
Kakeru was being congratulated by his teammates for earning the penalty. Meanwhile, Martin Atkinson was quickly signalling Ricky to come over while anybody else had to go away.
Martin Tyler: Now what is Martin Atkinson going to do?
Gary Neville: Well, I think this could be more serious than just a penalty, Martin. It looks like Bernardi got his arm in the way with a purpose.
At that moment, the Manchester United supporters poured their voices in to shout "OFF! OFF! OFF!"
"Ricardo, come here. Only you." Atkinson ordered.
"Come on. I didn't do it on purpose." Ricky pleaded his case.
"You denied a goal with the arm. It was deliberate. You're off." Atkinson replied before he pulled the red card out of his pocket.
Gary Neville: Oh, he's off!
Martin Tyler: It's a red card against Bernardi!
While 71,000+ Manchester United supporters applauded the decision, Ricky could only look aimlessly in total disarray.
"Good decision." Matthias said to Martin Atkinson.
"Thanks a huge lot for that, Bernardi." Yusuke chirped at Ricky.
Meanwhile, Ricky and his City teammates continued to argue with Martin Atkinson.
"I can't believe this!" Ricky lamented.
"Why? What for?" John Stones asked.
"A deliberate hand ball foul to deny a goal. You're off, Ricardo." Atkinson replied.
"That's too harsh! We only got started." Kevin De Bruyne pleaded.
"Doesn't matter. That's a straight red and a penalty at any time." Atkinson reiterated his decision.
Martin Tyler: Sensation at Old Trafford! Inside 5 minutes, Ricardo Bernardi, the pantomime villain in the eyes of the supporters here, has been dismissed. Manchester City are now down to 10 men with more than 85 minutes left to play.
Ricky was forced to take the long walk of shame towards the exit tunnel in the southwest corner of the stadium. The Manchester United supporters serenaded the usual "Cheerio, cheerio, cheerio" chant to rub even more salt in the wound.
"Attaboy Bernardi, you ****ing moron!" Noriko chirped at a distraught Ricky as he walked right in front of her.
"Don't look so bright now, eh?" Sarah added.
"You're going right where you belong: in the showers! Enjoy it, wanker!" Robert added.
Gary Neville: Well, it looked like Manchester City would be setting up their attack deep inside the United half. But De Bruyne was double-teamed by Saeki and Kristiansen before they started the counterattack. And I have to say that when Kristiansen played that pass, I thought "That's a comfortable one for John Stones." He didn't deal with it; Van Leeuwen shrugs him off and took the shot straight at the goalkeeper. Then the rebound went to Aizawa. As the second shot came, Bernardi stuck his arm out to deny what would have been a goal. It was deliberate. I don't know what they are arguing about, Manchester City.
At the same time when Ricky walked his way down the exit tunnel, Kakeru and Nana stood over the ball on the penalty spot. There was no doubt on who was going to take it, but Nana wanted to make sure that Kakeru would keep his focus.
"Now Bernardi's gone. Make sure you make him pay for everything he did and said." Nana said.
"I won't let this one get away." Kakeru replied.
"Ram it down his throat, Kakeru."
Then Nana made her way outside of the City penalty area, leaving Kakeru, Ederson, and referee Martin Atkinson as the only 3 people allowed to stand in there. Kakeru went into a deep focus mode as he set the ball one last time on the penalty spot before he waited for Martin Atkinson's whistle.
Martin Tyler: Stepping up is Kakeru Aizawa. He likes to put it to the goalkeeper's right. Will he do it again or will he change it?
PEEEP!
Upon the signal, Kakeru ran towards the ball before he struck it with pace and power into the top corner to the goalkeeper's right. Ederson guessed the right way, but the shot easily flew out of his reach as it hit the back of the net to complete Ricky's own humiliation.
Martin Tyler: 1-0! FIRST BLOOD IS RED BLOOD FOR MANCHESTER UNITED!!! 25 Premier League goals this season; 39 goals in all competitions for Kakeru Aizawa. The astonishing story continues.
Old Trafford erupted in an instant. Kakeru ran towards the northeast corner of the stadium, whacked the corner flag down, and then celebrated with the thousands of delirious United fans.
"COME ON!!!" Kakeru shouted.
"You did it, Kakeru!" Nana congratulated her fiancé.
"Well done!" Yusuke added.
"LET'S GO! LET'S GO!" Marius exclaimed.
"That's how to do it!" Nikolaj added.
"Huge goal! Let's go for more." Matthias said.
"Right! Let's destroy that lot!" Kakeru replied.
Alan Keegan: UNITED'S GOAL... SCORED BY NUMBER TEN... KAKERU AIZAWAAAA!!!
Meanwhile in the stands:
"THAT'S IT, KAKERU! WELL DONE!" Noriko shouted.
"GREAT START, LADS! GO FOR MORE!" Sarah added.
"Bernardi is definitely having one of the worst days in his life now. Serves him right." Robert said.
"Not yet, Bobby. If we score more goals, then I will share that sentiment." Harry replied.
"Kakeru and Nana will be relieved that Bernardi is no longer an immediate concern, but they are definitely going to push for more goals." Noriko said.
"From the very start, Kakeru looks like a man on a mission. I'm sure Nana will also feeling the same right now." Robert finished.
As if it wasn't enough, the Old Trafford crowd switched the chanting into that new anti-Ricky song in full voice to add even more humiliation upon the Argentine defender.
WHO'S THAT T*** FROM ARGENTINA?WHO'S THAT STINKING SEXIST SCUM?BERNARDI IS HIS NAME AND HE HASN'T GOT A BRAIN,AND HE WON'T BE LOOKING BACK AGAIN AT HIS MUM.
In the aftermath of Ricky's red card, Manchester City were forced to make an immediate substitution in order to keep 4 defenders at the back. The acting Manchester City captain, David Silva, was replaced by Argentine defender Nicolás Otamendi. Hence Fernandinho inherited the captain's armband for the rest of the game. The Citizens tried to implement their quick passing game and to push the action back inside the Manchester United half despite the numerical disadvantage. However, it was a dangerous game to play against a side that has counterattacking as one of many strengths.
In the 12th minute:
Martin Tyler: Here's Sterling...
Attacking from the left wing, Manchester City were moving their way inside the Manchester United half. However, Sterling was still a little far from United's penalty area. With Joel in support behind her, Nana tried to stand her ground while also watching out on both Sterling and Laporte. The English forward passed the ball back to his French teammate, on whom the ball then touch bounced off.
'I have to get it... No! Damn!' Nana thought.
As Nana tried to retrieve the ball. However, the ball slipped past her and rolled towards Sterling. Then the English forward started running his way towards the Manchester United penalty area.
Martin Tyler: Not quite a give-and-go, but Sterling has it again...
Entering the box, Sterling tried to run his way beyond a number of red shirts. United were clogging the middle, but Sterling continued his way towards the byline with a little hope of crossing the ball in front of the goal.
Martin Tyler: Still going...
But just as Sterling attempted his pass, Erik threw his legs as a hurdle in front of the trajectory. As a result, City earned a corner kick.
Martin Tyler: Off Johansson and out. Corner for Manchester City.
Although it was a corner kick for City, the players in red acknowledged their Swede's defensive contribution.
"Well played, Viking." Yusuke said.
"Good D, Viking." Joel added.
"Thanks, lads, but we have to defend this." Erik replied.
Meanwhile, Kevin De Bruyne walked his way towards the corner flag with the ball. After a few seconds, both sides stood ready.
PEEP!
But instead of playing the long corner, De Bruyne played a "short corner kick" by rolling a ground pass towards Fernandinho, who was at some distance away from the Manchester United penalty area.
Martin Tyler: Played short by De Bruyne. Fernandinho...
The plan was to use Fernandinho's passing ability to launch a different kind of long ball inside the penalty area. However, United had anticipated the possibility of such action; Santiago quickly rushed towards the Brazilian.
Martin Tyler: Araya standing in front of him. Now Walker...
With no room to make any significant action, Fernandinho made a pass across to Kyle Walker. But even at 35 yards from goal, the English right-back in blue was soon put under defensive pressure by Marius. Walker was then forced to make a short side pass to Bernardo Silva on the right.
Martin Tyler: Bernardo Silva...
The Portuguese forward, under quick defensive pressure from Marius and from Kakeru, chose to attempt a ground pass towards De Bruyne. Fortunately for United though, Yusuke easily intercepted the sloppy pass before he made a short pass ahead to Nana.
Gary Neville: Very bad pass by Bernardo Silva.
Martin Tyler: Easy interception for Saeki. United can break out here through Mishima...
Nana ran with the ball for a dozen yards before she arrived a handful of yards away from the halfway line. Then she launched the ball into Kakeru's run down the left wing as the Old Trafford crowd stood up.
Martin Tyler: There comes Aizawa. He's gone behind Kyle Walker...
With a burst of speed, Kakeru easily made his way behind Walker while staying onside. And on the split second when Kakeru arrived in line with the long edge of City's penalty area, the Japanese forward launched a pass that rolled quickly behind both City centre-backs and straight into the path of Marius. The Dutch striker in red tapped the ball beyond Ederson and into the back of the net to send Old Trafford into pandemonium for the second time on the day.
Martin Tyler: Oh, IT'S VAN LEEUWEN!!! THE DUTCHMAN HAS REACHED THE CROSS!! This could be a gigantic goal for Manchester United! They now lead the derby 2-0, and Manchester City have found themselves in a deep hole within less than a quarter of an hour gone.
"Attaboy, Roman! Huge goal!" Kakeru congratulated Marius in the ensuing celebrations.
"Yeah! That's how to do it!" Nana exclaimed as she jumped in the huddle.
"Thanks! Nice buildup, you love birds!" Marius replied.
"Nailed it, YEAH!" Nikolaj exclaimed.
"Well done, guys! Well done!" Matthias said. "Let's wear them down! We dig for the next one!"
"Hear, hear! Let's do this!" Yusuke replied.
Gary Neville: Well, that was Manchester United at their best on the counterattack. It was devastating. Saeki picks up a sloppy pass by Bernardo Silva. Then a short pass ahead to Mishima, who runs with the ball for a dozen yards. That's a good ball for Aizawa on the wing. Meanwhile, Van Leeuwen had his run set towards that far post. Then it was a case of whether they could get the ball to the far post and whether Van Leeuwen could keep himself onside. His run was absolutely spot on, and Manchester City have a big problem on their hands now.
The 71,000+ Manchester United supporters inside Old Trafford did not stop celebrating after the goal. In the following restart kick, Sergio Agüero passed the ball back to Fernandinho. Nevertheless, the Brazilian midfielder in blue was promptly hounded by Manchester United players. The Red Devils were looking for that next goal just like Matthias said.
Martin Tyler: United are pushing the pressure up now.
In response, Fernandinho passed the ball backwards to Stones, who then passed the ball on the left to Otamendi. Trying to take advantage of the triangular passing pattern, Otamendi passed the ball a few yards ahead to Fernandinho.
"Not with me." Nana said.
Nana came up to apply attacking pressure on Fernandinho, who chose to made another pass intended for Stone. However, that second pass was sloppy as it rolled into Kakeru's path, forcing Stones to fall back at the same time. Out of nothing, United recovered the ball in a 3v2 situation just outside of City's penalty area.
Martin Tyler: And Manchester City...
As Kakeru came up facing John Stones, Marius was advancing in front of Nicolás Otamendi while Nana was running in attacking support on Kakeru's left. However, Kakeru chose to get the ball onto his right foot for a shot. Despite Stones and Otamendi's combined effort, Kakeru curled the shot beyond both City defenders and the City goalkeeper. However, the ball struck the post and out of play.
Martin Tyler: ...FALLING APART HERE! OOOHHH!! Aizawa was so close of scoring his 40th goal of the season!
Kakeru could only grimace when he saw his shot striking the outside of the post and out of bounds. Marius and Santiago could only watch the aftermath with hands on their heads. Meanwhile, Nana was asking why Kakeru didn't pass the ball to her.
"Hey! I was right here, Kakeru!" Nana said.
"Sorry, Seven. I tried my luck, but got it wrong." Kakeru replied.
Gary Neville: Well, at that height of the pitch, you probably should use Mishima. But you can't blame him for shooting. Aizawa... He's in a good position to do so. There are a number of questions to ask if you're Manchester City because they are just flat out there.
Meanwhile in the stands:
"Oh dear! It came ever so close!" Noriko exclaimed.
"That's a shame. At 3-0, City would have been finished for good." Sarah said.
"I'm confident that it's only a matter of time, Sarah. For as long as we play like that against City, goals will come against that shaky backline." Robert replied.
"I hope you're right, M. Lewis." Sarah said.
"Right now. We have to see what City will do if they can stop the bleeding. A 2-goal lead is not always a good thing, you know." Robert said.
"Aye. One sneaky goal from City could change the mood even if we are in command now." Noriko replied.
After that recent onslaught from United, the Citizens managed to limit the damage long enough to see their cross-town rivals drop their intensity level a little. Knowing their own strengths, Manchester City could easily create something out of nothing whenever they have control of the ball on the attack.
In the 23rd minute:
Martin Tyler: De Bruyne... looking to maintain the attack. Now Bernardo Silva...
As City had control of the ball inside the Manchester United half, De Bruyne first attempted a pass ahead for Bernardo Silva. With Matthias standing firmly in the way, the Portuguese forward in blue immediately returned the pass to De Bruyne.
Martin Tyler: Back to De Bruyne...
The Belgian midfielder tried to run past through Matthias, but the German captain in red managed to poke the ball away momentarily. However, the loose ball went to Bernardo Silva, who then made a drop pass to the left for Fernandinho. Finally, the passing game found its way to the left flank as the Brazilian made a long diagonal pass towards Raheem Sterling, who arrived in a position to cross the ball.
Martin Tyler: Now Sterling can cross it...
Standing just on the side of the Manchester United penalty area, Sterling whipped an aerial pass inside the box. But despite the presence of 3 red shirts defending in front of Jan's goal, the pass had pace and enough dip on top of the accuracy as it reached Sergio Agüero's head.
Martin Tyler: AGÜEROO... OOHHH!!!
The Argentine striker headed the ball towards the Manchester United goal, and it appeared to be a sure goal for City. Fortunately for the Red Devils though, Jan stretched his arm just enough to deflect the shot out of bounds. Instead of a goal, it was a corner kick.
Gary Neville: Oh my God! What a save!
Sergio Agüero and his City teammates could only look aimlessly at the aftermath they did not want to see. On the other end of the spectrum of emotions, supporters and players from the team in red applauded the goalkeeper's effort. Matthias even went to personally congratulate his Slovakian teammate.
"Well done, you beast!" Matthias said as he hugged Jan, who replied with a friendly tap.
Gary Neville: Even at 2-0 up, that was unbelievable, that save by Jan Farkas.
Martin Tyler: You have to give credit to Raheem Sterling for such accuracy in the cross to Agüero. But from this angle, you can have a look at Farkas' athleticism.
"Let's defend this!" Yusuke rallied his teammates to defend the upcoming corner kick.
"Knight, Witch, same as usual." Matthias ordered.
"Right!" Kakeru and Nana replied altogether.
What Matthias ordered was for Kakeru and Nana to stand guard at each of the 2 goalposts on a corner kick against United. Both teams moved towards their assigned positions inside the penalty area, ready to make the move upon Martin Atkinson's signal.
PEEEP!
Martin Tyler: De Bruyne to take...
Kevin De Bruyne struck the ball in a way that it could curl and dip away from the 6-yard box. Nevertheless, the ball came exactly at a perfect spot where Nicolás Otamendi managed to step a few yards backwards to hit the half-volley. Then the ball arrived to Sterling, who was left unmarked in front of goal for a split second.
Martin Tyler: Oh, Sterling...
But instead of deflecting the ball into the back of the net, Sterling deflected the ball onto one of the goalpost before it went back off the Manchester United goalkeeper. The ball slowly rolled along the byline before Nana managed to kick the ball off a Manchester City player, leading off to a goal kick.
Martin Tyler: ...couldn't knock it in. Goal kick.
The Manchester United supporters and players alike took a huge sigh of relief while the Manchester City players frowned in disbelief.
Gary Neville: Oh, you cannot believe what just happened.
Martin Tyler: He cannot believe what just happened either.
Gary Neville: There was a flick in front of the near post; it was Otamendi. Then it just hit Raheem Sterling on the left foot. He couldn't put it past Farkas.
Meanwhile in the stands:
"Oof! That was too close for comfort." Robert said.
"Those should have been goals against us, Dad." Noriko replied.
"We are lucky, but we need to stay awake. One or more of those, and they will cut our lead in half." Sarah said.
"What matters now is how our senior players will keep everyone in check. It's on them to make sure no one sits on the lead." Harry replied.
"And more importantly, make sure that we keep things tight when they have the ball." Noriko added.
"But on the other hand, the longer City can't score means more frustration and more mistakes. At that moment, attack will become the best defence for us." Robert said.
But despite the back-to-back scoring opportunities, Manchester City couldn't build any momentum. On the other hand, United tightened things up at the back to cool down their rivals' ambitions. Minutes later, the adjustments paid off big time for the team in red.
In the 29th minute:
Martin Tyler: Sterling... He finds Laporte on the overlap...
During a Manchester City attack deep inside the Manchester United half, Sterling made pass into Laporte's overlapping run. Then the French left-back in blue attempted to cross the ball, which was easily blocked by Joel. Then the loose ball was contested between Nana and Sterling, but the Little Witch managed to push the ball ahead of her.
Martin Tyler: Lovely work on the ball by Mishima. Here's Kristiansen...
On the counterattack, Nana passed the ball to her left and towards Nikolaj. Upon receiving the ball inside the center circle, the Danish midfielder attempted a through pass into Kakeru's run. However, Ederson rushed outside of his own penalty area to play the ball because he wasn't sure if Kyle Walker could beat Kakeru in a foot race.
Martin Tyler: Well read by Ederson...
Ederson arrived to kick the ball as an attempted pass to a teammate across the halfway line. However, the ball went into the feet of Yusuke, who stood just inside his own half.
Martin Tyler: Cleared only was far as Saeki...
Seeing that Ederson was still at some distance from his own goal, Yusuke chose to fire a long left-footed shot from a long way out. Despite Ederson's efforts to fall back, Yusuke's lobbed shot had the pace, the direction, and the dip to go above the goalkeeper while travelling the 60-yard distance into the back of the goal.
Martin Tyler: He's not... Surely Not! HE HAS DONE... YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT!!!
In an instant, there was bedlam at Old Trafford for the third time on the day.
"YEAH, YUSUKE!!!" Noriko and Sarah exclaimed altogether, off from their seats.
"BEAUTY!!!" Robert added.
Martin Tyler: 3-0!!! AND SAEKI HAS PRODUCED A PIECE OF GENIUS!! Ederson curses himself, but Manchester is surely red now!
In the celebrations right after the goal, Yusuke jumped into Kakeru's arms first before both players were mobbed by their other teammates.
"YOSHAAAA!!!" Yusuke shouted.
"Well done, Yusuke!" Kakeru congratulated Yusuke.
"That was awesome!" Nana added.
"YEEEEAAAAH!!! LET'S GO!!" Nikolaj shouted.
"That's a knockout punch, Fury!" Matthias added. "That's how you do it!"
Gary Neville: Well, that has to go down as an error by the goalkeeper. Ederson, who is said to be able to play the ball like a midfielder, has let himself down with a pass straight into the feet of Saeki. There was a long way out to the goal, but that was absolutely wonderful. Saeki had the quality, the direction, and the pace in that shot.
Then TV broadcasts showed the reaction on the Manchester United bench as well as Jan's reaction in front of his goal. Everyone in the Manchester United camp was going nuts.
Gary Neville: And that's how much we have seen Andrew Butler celebrate... and Farkas... They know how important that goal is. Not only today, but for the title race as well.
After a few celebrations, the Manchester United players moved their way back across of the halfway line. Before the restart, Yusuke pointed at Noriko to acknowledge her support above anything else.
Martin Tyler: Yusuke Saeki has scored a few goals this season, but he made those count more often than not. He has scored a very late equalizer against Chelsea to salvage a point, but this one may be the most important he has scored on his first season for Manchester United yet.
In the crowd, the 71,000+ joyous Manchester United supporters started to believe that the day would be theirs while City's challenge was in danger of being finished off once and for all. The home crowd took the opportunity to sing the fact that the City defense no longer had Ricky to prevent the goals.
 WHERE'S YOUR SEXIST CENTRE-HALF?WHERE'S YOUR SEXIST,WHERE'S YOUR SEXIST,WHERE'S YOUR SEXIST CENTRE-HALF?
After Yusuke's goal, the rest of the first half started to go down as a really long and painful moment for the City players enduring the humiliation on the scoreboard and from the crowd. However, an incident could spark further antagonism between 2 sides who already don't like each other.
In the 40th minute:
Martin Tyler: Kristiansen... to Johansson...
Controlling the ball from just inside the Manchester United half, the players in red were passing the ball at the back preceding another incursion inside the Manchester City half. After Erik received the pass from Nikolaj, the Swedish defender in red passed the ball on the right for Joel.
Martin Tyler: Muamba... Van Leeuwen...
After Joel received the pass from Erik beyond the halfway line, the next pass went ahead for Marius. However, the Dutch striker was under pressure from Otamendi.
"Roman!" Joel called for a pass.
Upon the call, Marius made a side pass on the right and towards Joel. However, Otamendi made a 90-degree turn to run towards the English right-back. Joel made the pass ahead for Santiago, but he was swept by Otamendi's sliding tackle. In an instant, all Manchester United players, coaches, and supporters shouted for a foul.
PEEEP!
Martin Tyler: Ooh... Otamendi with a very strong challenge on Muamba. Martin Atkinson gives a free kick.
"He has to be sent off! That's reckless!" Matthias pleaded for another dismissal.
"I will take care of this. Wait." the referee Atkinson replied.
Needless to say, the angry crowd of Manchester United supporters shouted "OFF! OFF! OFF!" to demand another red card. Meanwhile, Kakeru and Nana quickly ran to attend their teammate, who was still lying on the ground holding his leg.
"Where did he hit you?" Kakeru asked.
"On the right shin. He got me with a high boot." Joel replied.
"How painful is it?" Nana asked.
"Hurts like hell!"
"It looks like everything is in the right position without a twist." Kakeru said. "Just hang on, tough guy."
The referee asked for the physios to have a closer look at Joel's condition. But on the following instants, Atkinson heard something in his earpiece from his assistant asking to come over and share further details about what they saw of the incident.
Gary Neville: We'll see what Martin Atkinson will decide here. He's buying himself some time. He's looking at his assistant referee for some advice. I think he could be in trouble here, Otamendi. If the assistant says "studs", Otamendi could be in serious trouble. It is reckless.
Martin Atkinson took a few seconds to clarify a few points with his assistant. But when the decision was ready to be made, a yellow card was dished out at Otamendi, much to the disappointment from the 71,000+ Manchester United supporters in the attendance.
Martin Tyler: It's yellow.
Gary Neville: Well, this match has already been ruined for Manchester City because of the red card against Bernardi – a well-deserved red card. I think Otamendi could have been sent off if Manchester City were not already down to 10 men. He goes with the studs from the foot that is not on the ground. It's in the air. It's a poor challenge by Otamendi.
Meanwhile in the stands:
"ARE YOU DAFT? HE SHOULD BE OFF!!!" an angry Noriko yelled.
"That was reckless!" Sarah said.
"It was. But I think the referee chose not to give red because 1) they are already down to 10 and 2) that is a mistimed challenge before anything." Robert replied.
"Atkinson didn't want to look biased." Harry added.
"That was utter disgusting by Otamendi though." Noriko said.
"We will have the last laugh on City. Don't worry about it." Robert replied.
In the end, Joel was able to shake off the pain and then carry on. After City narrowly escaped going down to 9 men, both teams toned the animosity down a little under the threat of further sanctions from Martin Atkinson in the case that things get any worse. The last few minutes of the first half finally winded down. The halftime whistle was met with a very loud round of applause and cheers from the Old Trafford faithful. The job on the day was halfway done, but there was still more to be done.
In the Manchester United dressing room at halftime:
"Great first half, Kakeru." Nana said, sitting next to Kakeru.
"I should have passed that ball instead of shooting. You deserve some of the cake today." Kakeru replied.
"You're close to 40 [goals] on the season. I can understand." Nana said.
"Speaking of a goal, yours was great, Yusuke." Kakeru switched his attention on Yusuke.
"I didn't think about it. Just followed my instinct." Yusuke replied.
"You won the Premier League Goal of the Season award, that's for sure."
"I would trade that for the title in 2 weeks if I have to, Kakeru." Yusuke said.
"Good job, guys. We keep on going hard at them, alright? No letting up." Matthias made sure to remind his teammates about the job to be done in the second half.
"We have them where we wanted. We don't stop." Nikolaj added.
Then Andrew Butler came to deliver his halftime talk to his players.
"Pretty good first half, everyone. I loved the energy. I know what you're probably thinking now with that scoreline, but we can definitely make this an even more painful afternoon for them. Don't sit back! They are desperate for goals, and that means they will get out of position. So keep going hard at them for 50/50 balls, stay disciplined, keep your composure, communicate, and we go at them again. Let's go kill this thing!" Andrew said.
The players gave a loud round of applause and cheers in response of Andrew's speech. A few minutes later, the players made their way back onto the pitch hungry for more. Manchester City attempted to set up the pace in the first few minutes of the second half. However, United continued to follow their game plan with focus and determination. And on a day when almost nothing has gone right for Manchester City, somehow things were about to be even worse early in the second half.
In the 50th minute:
Martin Tyler: United trying to turn this into a demolition derby.
After Ederson caught the ball with his hands, the Brazilian goalkeeper threw the ball as a pass ahead for John Stones. The English defender looked for passing options in midfield, but the City midfielders were tightly marked by Manchester United players. As a result, Stones chose to run with the ball in the middle of the pitch.
Martin Tyler: Here's Stones...
Stones managed to run past Marius, but the City defender was soon hounded from the side by Nikolaj. That situation forced Stones to run straight towards Yusuke, who then poked the ball away with a well-timed tackle.
Martin Tyler: Good tackle by Saeki. Now Köhler...
The loose ball went to Matthias; the Manchester United backline was standing just inside their own half. Then Matthias passed the ball to Jeremy, who advanced a few yards before Bernardo Silva stood in the way.
Martin Tyler: Williams... Now back to Köhler...
The ball went back to the German captain in red, who then launched a long diagonal pass beyond the halfway line and across the width of the pitch. The long pass was finally chested down by Nana, who stood on the right wing.
Gary Neville: That's a fantastic pass by Köhler
Martin Tyler: Mishima...
Upon receiving the ball, Nana faced Sterling ahead of her. Nevertheless, Nana made a small dribble to skip past Sterling while shifting the run to her left. Then Nana dashed towards Fernandinho. But then taking advantage of a moment of hesitation from Fernandinho, Nana shifted her run to her right to get past him. Only Nicolás Otamendi stood in her way, on the edge of the Manchester City penalty area.
'That's right, Otamendi. Screen your goalkeeper.' Nana thought.
Arriving within 10 yards from City's box, Nana surprised everyone by shooting the ball. The shot flew like an arrow by Otamendi, past Ederson, and into the top corner of the goal, much to the joy of the majority at Old Trafford.
Martin Tyler: Nana Mishima... FOOOOOUUR!!! THAT'S FANTASTIC!!! A FANTASTIC FOUR FOR MANCHESTER UNITED!! It is the demolition derby at Old Trafford today.
Nana ran her way towards the southwest corner flag. Then she performed a little dance coming from a J-Pop song named "Hey Hey ~Light Me Up~" before her teammates celebrated with her.
"Well done, Seven!" Kakeru exclaimed as he hugged Nana from behind.
"Attagirl, Witch!" Marius added.
"Beauty goal, Witch!" Nikolaj added.
"Thanks, guys!" Nana replied.
Gary Neville: Well, that's a mauling for Manchester City. That's a great pass from Köhler to find Mishima. Then she skips past Raheem Sterling and Fernandinho. I didn't think she would take the shot from there. But she just had a chance, she sets herself up, and takes it on her right foot. That far top corner was the only place where she could hit with Otamendi standing in the way. It is a painful, painful afternoon for City.
Martin Tyler: Unstoppable.
Meanwhile in the stands:
"PARTY TIME, NANA!" Noriko shouted.
"What was that dance?" Sarah asked. "That's definitely not from Fortnite."
"That... is from a J-Pop band named Fairies. More specifically, it's from their song 'Hey Hey ~Light Me Up~'." Noriko replied with a smile.
"I didn't think she would pull off something like that."
"She probably wanted something more Japanese than the Fortnite dance. I'm happy with that." Noriko finished.
At 4-0, Nana destroyed more or less the last bit of hope City hung on before any attempted comeback. The Red Devils were already in touching distance of 3 big points in the standings and thus one big step closer to a Premier League title. On the other hand, City looked to breach the seemingly impenetrable Manchester United fortress in order to find some consolation first.
In the 62nd minute:
Martin Tyler: Manchester City looking to find at least some consolation with a little less than 29 minutes left to play. Stones... finds De Bruyne on the right...
From just inside the Manchester City half, John Stones made a long pass to Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian playmaker was on the right wing inside the Manchester United half when he received the ball. Waiting for the right moment after Kyle Walker would make the overlapping run on the same flank, De Bruyne attempted to launch a low cross on the ground towards the Manchester United penalty area.
Martin Tyler: De Bruyne with the cross... goes off Köhler...
The ball struck the back of Matthias' left heel as he hustled back to defend inside his own penalty area. Then the ball rolled towards Joel, who kicked the ball awkwardly across, high in the air, and inside his own penalty area.
Martin Tyler: A little awkward for Muamba...
The ball appeared to go towards Kyle Walker, but Jeremy stood in the right place to head the ball away and outside of the penalty area. However, the ball was recovered 5 yards in front of the penalty area by Fernandinho.
Martin Tyler: Williams heads it... only as far as Fernandinho...
The Brazilian midfielder chested the ball down before he looked around for a split second. Then Fernandinho sent the ball on the left and into Sterling's run. However, the flag came up.
Martin Tyler: Sterling... Flag's up.
Sterling continued his run until he flicked the ball into Sergio Agüero, who tapped the ball into a wide open goal. However, the referee saw the linesman's flag held up.
PEEEP!
The vast majority inside Old Trafford cheered with a lot of sarcasm intended when Agüero knocked the ball into the net. Sterling was called offside because he was beyond the last defender by a few inches while the 4 Manchester United defenders moved up quickly to play the offside trap when Fernandinho made his pass.
Gary Neville: I wasn't sure if Raheem Sterling was offside from our position here, but it must have been really tight. De Bruyne makes the low cross, which goes off Köhler. Then Muamba makes a little mess of it before Williams heads it away. Fernandinho does well to take the ball with the chest before he flicks the ball... that split second was enough to put Raheem Sterling offside. Give credit to the Manchester United back 4 there.
Further away, Yusuke and Nana were looking at the aftermath.
"Good thing we played the offside trap quickly." Nana said.
"Yeah. I wasn't sure if Jeremy would make it a good offside trap, but it looks like he did." Yusuke replied.
"City will be looking for a consolation at the very least. Let's make sure they don't get one."
"OK, Nana. We will hold the line." Yusuke said.
A few minutes later, the Manchester City manager made his last 2 substitutions by replacing John Stones and Bernardo Silva with Gabriel Jesus and Leroy Sané. By fielding what was basically a 3-2-3-1 formation, City were hoping to get something done with all of their best attacking assets on the pitch. But United continued to stand tall with their proactive defense to break down plays, and the frustration was starting to mount in the City team.
In the 68th minute:
Martin Tyler: Laporte... Fernandinho...
Taking the action inside the Manchester United half, City continued to look for that elusive first goal. From the left wing, Aymeric Laporte passed the ball on the right to Fernandinho, who soon found himself hounded by Marius. Then the Brazilian midfielder attempted a through pass for a teammate, but Yusuke intercepted the ball around 8 yards in front of the Manchester United penalty area.
Martin Tyler: Cut out by Saeki...
Yusuke attempted to run forward with the ball, but Kevin De Bruyne poked the ball away from him with a standing tackle.
Martin Tyler: Nice steal by De Bruyne...
The poke on the ball also became a pass to Gabriel Jesus. But with 4 Manchester United defenders in the way, the Brazilian striker chose to pass the ball to Raheem Sterling on the right wing.
Martin Tyler: Gabriel Jesus to Raheem Sterling... 
Sterling slowly approached the Manchester United penalty area while Jeremy stood in front of him. Then Sterling put up a burst of speed as he advanced on the lateral edge of the penalty area; he was trying to outmanoeuver Jeremy. However, Jeremy followed Sterling like a shadow before he made a tackle to hook the ball away from the City player. Sterling fell on the grass, but the Martin Atkinson immediately gestured "no penalty."
Martin Tyler: Good challenge by Williams...
Quickly back up on his feet, Jeremy made a pass forward to Kakeru. Then the Japanese forward rushed towards Kyle Walker before shifting the run by 90 degrees to the right, avoiding Walker's tackle.
Martin Tyler: Aizawa... skips past Walker...
Running now across the width of the pitch, Kakeru saw Fernandinho running towards him as well. Nevertheless, Kakeru performed a Phi Trick to run past the Brazilian midfielder as well.
Martin Tyler: ...skips past Fernandinho as well.
But as Kakeru ran forward to reconnect with the ball at the very end of his Phi Trick, Kevin De Bruyne was arriving from the side as well. But just a tiny split second after Kakeru poked the ball towards Nana, Kevin De Bruyne barged in with a hip check that threw Kakeru down. At the very same time the crowd got up on their feet to cry foul, Martin Atkinson immediately blew his whistle upon impact.
Martin Tyler: Ohh... That was a bad challenge by Kevin De Bruyne. It's a yellow card against the Belgian.
Even though De Bruyne was shown a yellow card, there was one Manchester United player who was not going to let that foul slide without giving an hearful to the Belgian midfielder in blue.
"Why don't you pick on someone of your size?" Yusuke angrily asked.
"What are you gonna do? We owned your country at the last World Cup in case you lived under a rock." De Bruyne chirped.
"Yeah? As far as I know, your team is getting kicked in the ass right now." Yusuke chirped back. "It's FOUR-F***ING-NIL on the scoreboard!"
"OK. Leave him, Fury." Marius said as he came in to calm things down.
"They're screwed. He knows it." Nikolaj added.
Meanwhile in the stands:
"Disgusting bastard! That scumbag!" Noriko cursed.
"Cynical as hell." Sarah said.
"I know. He's lucky we also have something left to play in the League, so we can't afford red cards." Noriko replied.
Then Kakeru got up on his feet, which prompted a round of applause from the crowd. He took a moment to shake off the pain by walking on his own towards the touchline alongside the physio, but he was OK.
"I don't recall City being that dirty in recent years." Robert said.
"Not every day they get humiliated and knocked out of the title race at the same time, son." Harry replied.
"We need to be careful. They could resort to worse at any time." Sarah said.
"Substitutes are warming up. Go figure how long they will take before they come in." Robert said.
"Hopefully soon enough." Noriko replied.
With time winding down, the Citizens were unable to find any consolation. Frustration was growing stronger within their ranks. At some point, someone on the losing side was set to do something reckless that would add even more fuel to the flame.
In the 73rd minute:
Martin Tyler: City on the counterattack. They have 5 players on the break.
After a little spell of controlled play by the Red Devils, a stray pass led to a Manchester City counterattack. The Citizens had 5 players against 3 Manchester United defenders, but 4 red shirts were hustling back quickly behind the 5 City players as well. When the ball was passed across the halfway line, it went on the left towards Kevin De Bruyne.
Martin Tyler: De Bruyne...
Upon receiving the pass, De Bruyne started shifting his run from left to right as he ran forward. Then the following pass was intended for Sergio Agüero further ahead and slightly to the right. The Argentine striker was entering the Manchester United penalty area.
Martin Tyler: It's Agüero...
But on the short split second before Agüero could received the ball, Jeremy came in with a sliding tackle that hooked the ball away from the Argentine striker. Agüero went down, but Atkinson declined City's penalty claims.
Martin Tyler: ...down he goes. Martin Atkinson spreads his arms.
In the immediate aftermath of that tackle, Nikolaj retrieved the loose ball before he advanced towards the middle third of the field.
"Nicky!" Nana called for a pass to Nikolaj's right, of which he obliged.
Martin Tyler: United play on... Mishima...
Running with the ball, Nana found herself closed down by 2 City players as she approached the halfway line: Kyle Walker in front of her and Fernandinho behind her. Nana dribbled her way past Walker, but then got also kicked on her right ankle from behind by Fernandinho as she did so.
PEEEP!
Nana went down hard on the grass after the contact before she held her right ankle. Having seen what just happened, several Manchester City players went after Fernandinho to seek retribution.
Gary Neville: It's all going off now. Kristiansen has gone for Fernandinho. I'm not sure what this is about...
In the next 2 seconds, several Manchester City players came to protect their acting captain. Walker, Otamendi, De Bruyne, and even Ederson stepped up to stop the angry players in red.
"Fernandinho, you Brazilian wanker!" Nikolaj came in and shoved Fernandinho forcefully.
"Hey, chill out! Back off!" De Bruyne replied as he tried to push Nikolaj back.
"You tell that to your friend!" Yusuke replied to De Bruyne with a shove before he turned his attention to Fernandinho. "Hey, you ****ing little prick! Come on!"
"F*** you!" Fernandinho dryly replied.
"Let's get it on right now, you and me." Yusuke pointed fingers at the Brazilian.
"No, Yusuke!" Kakeru held Yusuke back.
"Leave it! Leave it!" Martin Atkinson ordered the players on both sides to calm down.
"Hey! Keep your head in the game, Fury." Marius said as he also restrained Yusuke.
"Stay cool, lads." Matthias added. The German captain was holding Nikolaj back.
Martin Tyler: Well, you cannot say that the antagonism between the 2 sides has not been brewing for some time.
"Nikolaj, Fernandinho, come here." Atkinson both players to come over.
"He lashed at Nana! Tell me you saw that." Nikolaj pleaded.
"Even so, shoving an opponent is not a mature reaction. That's a yellow card for you." Atkinson replied before he showed a yellow card.
Martin Tyler: Kristiansen gets the yellow card.
Then Atkinson turned his attention towards Fernandinho.
"I saw what you did there. You came behind Mishima, and then you lashed deliberately onto her ankle. Never played the ball. That's a red card." Atkinson said before he produced the red card.
Martin Tyler: And it's a red card against Fernandinho! Manchester City are down to 9 men!
"What? No way! She was diving. That's a ****ing joke!" Fernandinho protested
"I don't want to hear anything from you anymore. You're off. Out!" Atkinson ordered.
Gary Neville: Let's have a look here. Fernandinho arrived behind Mishima as she skipped past Kyle Walker. And then... Fernandinho booted Mishima on that right ankle. He never played the ball at all. And to be fair, Kristiansen was right to react like that when you see your teammate getting lashed at like that. That was reckless and intentional; no argument. Manchester City have shot themselves in the foot on all fronts today.
Needless to say, the 71,000+ Manchester United supporters cheered loudly at the dismissal of a second Manchester City player. They poured the jeers and other expletives on the Brazilian midfielder as he walked off the pitch. Meanwhile, Kakeru came back to have a little chat with Nana, who was being examined by the physio.
"How is that ankle?" Kakeru asked Nana.
"I will carry on. No problem." Nana replied. "Did he get sent off?"
"Yeah, he got the boot."
"That's good, Kakeru. I hope we get one more before the end." Nana said.
"It's not over yet." Kakeru finished.
In the aftermath of that incident, Andrew Butler decided to pull Nana and Matthias out on the 76th minute. The 2 players were replaced with Aidan Whelan and Adewale Makinde at their respective positions while Nikolaj assumed the captaincy for the remaining minutes in the match. Nana was not injured, but the coaches wanted to keep her fit for the upcoming match against Bayern. Kakeru was also about to be replaced later on, but he had one last departing gift on the day.
In the 81st minute:
Martin Tyler: Whelan... long ball on the left...
Pushing the attack inside the Manchester City half, the Manchester United players continued passing the ball around. From the center circle, Aidan launched a long diagonal pass towards Kakeru on the left wing. Then Kakeru slowly advanced with Kyle Walker facing him.
Martin Tyler: Aizawa...
Waiting for the right moment, Kakeru attempted to skip past Walker. The English right-back in sky blue tried to tackle the ball, but Kakeru pushed the ball beyond him. The Japanese forward was struck by the miskick, but he managed to stay on his feet and carry on.
Martin Tyler: Oh... He keeps on running...
Surprising Walker completely, Kakeru continued to run with the ball towards the City penalty area from the side. But then, Walker threw himself down in desperation to take Kakeru down with him outside the 18-yard box. The 71,000+ United supporters screamed for a foul.
PEEEP!
Martin Tyler: He's brought down by Walker. It will be a yellow card.
After the awarding of an indirect free kick, Martin Atkinson immediately showed the yellow card against Kyle Walker. Meanwhile, Kakeru was pulled up on his feet by Nikolaj.
"Nice move, Knight." Nikolaj said.
"Thanks, Nicky. Shoot a good one in there." Kakeru replied.
In the next few seconds, both teams lined up inside the penalty area. While most players lined up around 2 yards in front of the 6-yard box, Kakeru stood right on the edge of the 6-yard box and in front of the City goal; he was deliberately standing in an offside position. Nevertheless, the referee blew his whistle.
PEEEP!
Martin Tyler: Kristiansen will take...
Nikolaj whipped the ball with height and pace, but it first appeared it was going to fly wide to the far post. However, Yusuke, who was being shadowed by Kevin De Bruyne, managed to jump up and head the ball across the face of goal.
Martin Tyler: Around the back goes Saeki...
The plan unfolded itself: Nikolaj whipped the ball at the far post for Yusuke to reach, and then the ball would be laid off in front of goal for another red shirt while the goalkeeper gets caught out of position. This time, Kakeru was in a perfectly good position to strike the shot because he was onside when Yusuke's pass arrived. All the Knight in the Area had to do was to tap the ball in a wide open net in front of the Stretford End.
Martin Tyler: AIZAWA AGAIN!! There is the landmark for you: 40 goals on the season for Kakeru Aizawa! Fourth Manchester United player to score 40 goals or more in a single campaign! It's 5-0 – the cherry on the icing on the cake for Manchester United.
"Nice pass, Yusuke!" Kakeru immediately went to congratulate his friend.
"Nice goal, Kakeru!" Yusuke replied.
"Get in, Knight. That's 40 now." Marius said.
"Thanks, Roman. Kudos to Nicky and Fury though." Kakeru replied.
The players congratulated each other, but restrained themselves from celebrating over the top. There was no need to rub more salt in the wound anymore.
Gary Neville: It was a clever play on the free kick. Kristiansen whips that ball at the far post. It could have gone out of play, but Saeki makes a huge effort to recover that ball. Then he lays it off into the feet of Aizawa, who was never going to miss from that range with the goalkeeper in no man's land. However, you have to ask yourselves: "What were Manchester City doing?" The marking has been poor. Kevin De Bruyne doesn't mark Saeki tightly enough, but there is no excuse for leaving Aizawa unmarked like that. The City manager is going to give an hearful after the match.
Meanwhile in the stands:
"Kakeru has got his 40 goals now." Noriko said.
"I was really young when I saw Cristiano Ronaldo scoring 42 goals in 2007-08. I didn't think I would see another player score 40 or more for us so soon." Sarah said.
"I'm sure he's happy to be in the exclusive club with Ronaldo, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Denis Law. But I'm sure he wants to win trophies ahead of any personal record." Noriko replied.
"For sure. As for me and your granddad, we're really happy to see that scoreline against City again." Robert said to Noriko.
"November 10, 1994 was the last time we scored 5 against them; we also won 5-0. In those days, we had Éric Cantona, Andrei Kanchelskis, and Mark Hughes lighting things up." Harry added.
"Wow! I was not even 2 months old back then." Noriko said.
"A very long time ago indeed, but it was all worth the wait." Robert finished.
For the remaining minutes of the match, the intensity dropped by several notches on both sides. With the result being so one-sided, Manchester City players and supporters were only wishing for the long and painful afternoon to end already. Meanwhile, tens of thousands Manchester United supporters in the attendance kept on singing loudly and proudly to mark the shift of power in Manchester.
U-N-I-T-E-DUNITED ARE THE TEAM FOR ME,WITH A NICK NACK PADDY WHACK,GIVE THE DOG A BONE,WHY DON'T CITY **** OFF HOME!?
As injury time expired, Martin Atkinson blew the final whistle to spark a huge celebration at Old Trafford.
PEEP PEEP PEEEEEEEEEP!!!
Martin Tyler: CHAMPIONS IN ALL BUT NAME, MANCHESTER UNITED ARE ON THE BRINK OF WINNING THE TITLE! There will be new Premier League champions this season! For the first time since 2013, Manchester United will end the season above Manchester City. There was tension from the start when Ricardo Bernardi refused to shake hands with Nana Mishima. But then a red card against Bernardi in the 5th minute allowed Kakeru Aizawa to open the floodgates from the spot. Manchester United have put a memorable display with some memorable goals. On the other end, Manchester City have seen their last hope for another Premier League title disintegrate here at Old Trafford. The red half of Manchester has re-established a 3-point advantage over Arsenal with 2 games left to play in the Premier League. United may clinch the Premier League title as early as next week. Gary Neville.
Gary Neville: Well, it was as dominant of a performance as you could ask from Manchester United. They came quick off the blocks from the very first minute. But I have to say that the turning point came when Ricardo Bernardi was sent off for a deliberate hand ball. And after the penalty was scored, Manchester City were in for a very long afternoon being down to 10 men after 5 minutes. United were just irresistible today, and they are now in good position to carry over the finishing line. You can see what this result means to the players and to the supporters here. Perhaps for the first time in many years, they are starting to believe the Premier League title could be theirs soon.
The remaining players on both teams gave very cold handshakes between opponents. As the City players and coaches walked down the tunnel quickly, the Manchester United players remained on the pitch a little longer to give their supporters a good round of applause to acknowledge their undying support.
Martin Tyler: It's still a 2-horse race, but the title race between United and Arsenal could reach a conclusion if United win or if Arsenal lose one of their last 2 matches. Today's result, combined to the existing goal difference, puts United at a decisive advantage if it comes down to goal difference on the last day of the season. Great day for Manchester United. They have seen Manchester City off by 5 goals to 0.
The Manchester United players finally walked their way down the players' tunnel under the cheers of their supporters. Kakeru and Nana were summoned to do the post-match interview with Geoff Shreeves while Yusuke continued his walk towards the dressing room. But before Yusuke could enter the dressing room, he saw Miwa Shibata standing in the corridor.
"Shibata-san? What are you doing here?" Yusuke asked.
"Saeki-kun... I came here to tell Nana-chan some bad news." Miwa replied.
"What is it? Is it personal? She will probably tell me about it later, so you might..."
"OK. Come here." Miwa asked Yusuke to come closer.
Then Miwa whispered the news in Yusuke's ear. After a few seconds, Yusuke was left in shock when he heard the exact nature of the bad news.
"When did you learn about it?" Yusuke asked.
"During halftime. There was no way I could have known about it before that." Miwa replied.
"I can't even imagine how she will feel after you tell her."
"I wish I didn't have to tell it."
Then Kakeru and Nana made their way out of the post-match interview. Kakeru had the small Man of the Match trophy in his hand to testify on the quality of his individual performance.
"Two goals and an assist. You really earned the Man of the Match award today." Nana said.
"It could have been you or Yusuke too. You two played very well too." Kakeru replied.
Then Nana saw Miwa at last.
"Hey, Miwa-san. I didn't think you would come down here. So are you celebrating with us at dinner?" Nana asked.
"Nana, I had a call from your father in Kamakura." Miwa said.
"What is going on?" Nana asked.
"It's your mother... There has been an accident. It is serious." Miwa replied.
When the words "your mother", "accident", and "serious" came out of Miwa's mouth, Nana's heart froze almost immediately. Following a cruel twist of fate, the Little Witch was soon confronted with a heart-wrenching decision to be made.
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