Defensive frailties give Ferguson cause for concern

Alex Ferguson bemoaned erratic defending for almost costing his side three points as he cut a relieved figure after Manchester United survived late pressure from Liverpool to maintain their advantage at the top of the Premier League.

After dominating the opening half, United looked set to coast home when Nemanja Vidic deflected Patrice Evra’s header in to add to Robin van Persie’s first-half goal.

However, Liverpool responded through Daniel Sturridge, which made it a nervy final half-hour at Old Trafford.

“Until the second goal we were magnificent, it was as good a performance we’ve had for a long time,” revealed the United manager.

“But when they got the goal they were inspired — their supporters got going and it was hard work after that to be honest and I’m just glad we won the match.”

And Ferguson bemoaned his defenders for being unsettled after David De Gea’s error when the goalkeeper palmed Steven Gerrard’s shot into the path of Sturridge for Liverpool’s goal.

“Once again the goalie’s parried one out and nobody’s following in the rebounds and it lifted them — that’s without doubt.

“But some of our defending after that was a bit erratic, desperate even at times but we managed to get through it. The name of the game when you’re playing the big games is that there are moments when you have to defend and this was one of them.”

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers believes his side’s second-half display proves they are not as far behind United as the 24 points that separate them in the table would suggest.

“I think this performance gives us great hope,” Rodgers said.

“We are 24 points behind Manchester United but we are not behind 24 points in quality. Once we close the gap in terms of the squad depth, I have great faith we will be able to challenge.”

And Rodgers believes his side can learn from United, who were once in the shadows of the Merseyside club rather than in their current position of outright dominance.

“To win these games sets you off on a total different direction, we have to do that. This was a club that was dominated here for a number of years. We have got great hope in the future and how we work. It’s going to be a long journey but it is about closing the gap in the squad depth.”

Despite the question of offside for Vidic’s goal, Rodgers was more aghast at his side’s defending rather than the officials.

“I am more disappointed with how we defended it to be honest,” he said. “The ball has been played in, our line is okay but we have to defend it better at the back post.”