United sits in front of Group H with three points after a 2-1 victory over CFR Cluj

After Saturday's shocking defeat against Tottenham Hotspur, Sir Alex Ferguson grew tired of giving up early goals and decided to change up his tactics against Cluj.  The United manager decided to use his two main strikers, Wayne Rooney and Robin Van Persie, to get some positive response early in the game.

United's starting line consisted of a 4-3-1-2 formation with De Gea in goal, Rafael, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra; Anderson, Fletcher, Cleverley; Rooney, Van Persie, and Hernandez.  Substitutes were Lindegaard, Büttner, Wootton, Nani, Powell, Kagawa, Welbeck.

Although United had a strong squad on pitch, Cluj struck first.  In the 14th minute of play, Modou Sougou set up Pantelis Kapetanos for the opening goal with a low cross, beating Evra down the win, giving the hosts the lead.

It seemed like it would be a long game for United, but on the 29th minute of play, Rooney found the head of Robin Van Persie, giving them a comfortable tie.  This was the first game the two men have started a game together and it was a great debut for the dynamic duo.  Both players have the potential to create and score goals.  If Ferguson decides to continue playing them together, these two can be an unstoppable force.

After this goal, United began to take the lead having several attempts by Van Persie.  Cluj must be given some credit for defending well and stopping great plays in the first half. 

As the second half began, the question in mind was; Can United really step up and makeup for the losses this season or will they having a surprising loss for the second week?

It was not long in the second half before Van Persie did it again.  In the 49th minute of play, Rooney once again found Van Persie running and flicked the ball beyond the goalie, giving him a perfect diagonal ball for a first time finish in the far post.

From that point on, the Red Devils had control of the game but were in search of a third goal that would allow them to have a bit more breathing space.  There were a few close calls when Cluj almost scored against De Gea.  Fortunately for United, De Gea was able to make phenomenal saves holding onto the victory. 

 

Van Persie and Rooney were the real difference between the two teams.  "Wayne (Rooney) gave me the good pass, so I have to thank him," Van Persie said of his teammate.  "Not many players can give a pass like that."

It was not United's best game, but with the new partnership between Rooney and Van Persie, hopefully United can get back on the grind of an amazing soccer performance.  United's next game will be on Sunday, October 7th at 10:00 (CT) against Newcastle United.

Written By Cristina Loza