It’s the final of the most prestigious club competition in the World this weekend as Louis Van Gaal’s Manchester United face Alan Pardew’s Crystal Palace at Wembley stadium, in what is a re-run of the 1990 final. The Half-time Pie takes a look at the two teams poised for battle…
Manchester United
After missing out on the Champions League places, LVG’s men will be desperate to rescue something from a season of disappointment. As far as entertainment goes, Manchester United have left a lot to be desired this year. 1-0 victories and boring 0-0 draws have left many of the prawn sandwich brigade unhappy with the situation at Old Trafford. Failure to lift the trophy this weekend may even cost Van Gaal his job. Despite the negativity though, there has been a few rays of light; the young players that have been brought through this season have shown plenty of promise and the likes of Lingard and Rashford will have been dreaming of an FA Cup final all their lives. Defensively, United have been superb and will be very difficult to break down. Factor in the pace of Martial, and the big-game mentality of Wayne Rooney, and its clear to see why United are the favourites.
One To Watch
Marcus Rashford – The youngster will be brimming with confidence following his call up to the England squad; his pace and movement may unlock the Palace defence.
Crystal Palace
The first half of the season went brilliantly for the Eagles and there was hopeful talk of qualifying for Europe. However, the second half of the season was a different story; the goals dried up and poor performances saw Palace free-fall down the league table. A relegation battle was looking ominous but Pardew’s men got the right results at the right time, to steer themselves clear of danger. With the season now behind them, Palace will be looking to cause an upset at Wembley. The main goal threat may not come from the forwards, but rather from the big centre halves Delaney and Dann who will pose United plenty of problems from set-pieces. Alan Pardew is flying the flag for England managers but many may feel he needs a bit of FA Cup magic tomorrow if his underdogs are to be victorious.
One To Watch
Scott Dann – His aerial threat from corners has the potential to cause havoc amongst the usually solid United defence.
Prediction: Manchester United 1 Crystal Palace 2.
Half-time Pie 