1.
Yesterday, Premier league champions Manchester United took on FA Cup champions Wigan in the annual FA Community Shield game. This game is more of a showcase, intended to raise money for needy causes while allowing the winners of the previous season’s biggest domestic tournament to duke it out just before the real season kicks off. Sadly this year, it was a clash between the leading team in England, and a club that was just relegated to the second tier. In truth, the result was never in doubt and it was always going to be Man Utd lifting the hardware, but there was the added bonus of David Moyes making his competitive debut as coach of one of Britain’s most famous clubs. Here's What You Missed at This Weekend's FA Community Shield.
Bryan Byrne is the founder of SoccerCleats101. Got a question about boots? Hit up Bryan on Twitter.
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2.
David Moyes is in Unfamiliar Territory
There was a definite feel that something was out of place on the Man Utd sideline. David Moyes enjoyed a sunny day at Wembley but he just seemed to look a little lost at time. Then, post-game he stated the win was more about Sir Alex Ferguson than him. That is a very bold statement. It is sure to take any manager time to adjust to a new team, but replacing one of the most successful managers of all time is always going to be a tricky task. Starting with silverware in your first 2 months is a pretty ideal start and I am sure this will help settle any nerves Moyes might have.
3.
RVP – Clinical Goal Scorer Even In New Boots
Robin Van Persie started off new calendar season with a double and two impressive goals. The first was a header, while the second was a deflected shot. Seeing as he has been stuck in the adidas adiPower predator for the past 2 seasons, it was nice to see him wearing a new silo on Sunday. His new boot of choice is the adidas F50 adiZero and he went with the complimentary Red colorway – they matched his kit perfectly. The F50 series is all about speed and acceleration, with the SprintSkin upper providing a very thin barrier between ball and foot. It is a case of new boots, but same goal scoring threat from the Dutch striker.
4.
Antonio Valencia Opens Up the #7 Jersey
When Antonio Valencia subbed in wearing the #25 jersey, twitter lit up with speculation about Cristiano Ronaldo’s return back to Old Trafford. How is that you ask? Well, Ronaldo is well renowned for wearing the #7 jersey and Valencia’s unexpected switch seemed to be part of some behind the scenes transfer action. Alas, Valencia simply decided to transition back the #25 jersey he had worn 2 seasons ago, when he had a fantastic season. Superstition got the better of the Ecuadorian winger after a sour past season.
5.
Zaha is a Raw Talent
Without a high profile signing to showcase in this game, David Moyes was left casting January signing Wilfred Zaha into action on the United right flank. He should some great touches and sharp turns, but there were several times where he took too much on and lost the ball. In a game like this against a lesser opponent, he can easily get away with it but in the big games, he will need to learn how to control his game better. It proved an invaluable experience and is sure to help the player adapt to the Man Utd culture. On a side note, the Nike Vapor IX worn by Zaha are a top option for him and his style of play. Being that they are intended for explosive speed, they match his biggest strength of turning quickly to beat defenders.
6.
Wigan Will Struggle in Europe
Normally, teams who qualify for Europe have the ability to strengthen before the following campaign, but the opposite is true of Wigan. The club has recently lost their charismatic manager and several key players, as they try to adapt to life in the Championship. This game clearly showed they lack a serious attacking threat and the "passing game" of last season has been replaced by "long ball". Playing in the Europa Cup will help the club financially, but I don’t expect them to claim many big results.
