Ferguson first title triumph at United began in eerily similar circumstances to that of the 2007-08 season: a 2-1 defeat at Bramall Lane followed by a 3-0 hammering at home to Everton was hardly the beginnings of something special in the new Premier League era. United had experienced many ups and downs since their last English title in 1967. They had become the first club to win the European Cup but had since plummeted into the darkness with relegation in 1974 after attempting to replace Sir Matt Busby. After hiring Alex Ferguson in 1986 and lifting the FA Cup and Cup Winners Cup in successive years at the start of the nineties, the Scot had saved his job. The run of form was bizarre from the club after the 1-1 home draw with Ipswich Town. Five wins followed without concession of a goal, including a 2-0 win at home to the Football League champions, Leeds United in early September. Five successive draws and two defeats to Wimbledon and Aston Villa came after in a baron spell for the Reds. United were left languishing in 10th place courtesy of the indifferent form but were only nine points off the early pace set by Norwich City. A ten-game unbeaten streak either side of the New Year saw United crash through the sides above them and lead Aston Villa on goal difference with seventeen matches remaining. They had been eliminated from the FA Cup at the fifth round stage by early season tormentors Sheffield United but this only served to rejuvenate the Red Devils. A draw against Aston Villa in mid-March saw the sides level at the top again after a brief winning run which culminated in an Anfield victory thanks to goals from Mark Hughes and Brian McClair. After a defeat at Boundary Park in March, United wouldnt lose again that season and following successive draws to Man City and Arsenal, United had two points to recover in the title race. A 3-1 away win at Norwich, who were in second place, saw United go top and not relinquish their position after six straight wins to cap off a fine season. A win at Crystal Palace and Aston Villas home defeat to Oldham secured a first league title for United in 26 long years. Do you think United can survive their terrible start to the season? Share your thoughts below in the comments thread.
I am an aspiring journalist with a degree in Media Studies and a passion for all things sport -- especially football and Manchester United. I am a former season ticket holder at Old Trafford and have been a Red Devil since 1998.
