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Day: 27 April 2016

A United Perspective: Manchester United vs. Crystal Palace

Written by Magnus Henderson on . Posted in Sport.

After a disappointing home performance against Villa, potentially the worst team to have ever graced the Premier League, Manchester United looked forward to facing Crystal Palace. Alan Pardew’s men had a surprising draw against the Gunners at the weekend having successfully repelled their lacklustre attacks and hitting them on the break with counter attacks, Yannick Bolasie being particularly threatening . This did not look great for the United faithful, who watched their team struggle to break down Aston Villa… yes Villa. Not many managers have made the doomed Claret and Blues look good, but Louis Van Gaal can add that to his impressive list of things not to include on your CV. Optimism has been at its lowest for some time, which was summed up by a text I received from Manchester United the night before: “United v Crystal Palace – get behind the team as they battle for a top 4 finish at OT tomorrow. Last chance to buy tickets blah blah blah”. It’s not often I get those kind of rousing texts the night before a Premier League game, showing a clear lack of tickets sold for the match.

When the team news came out an hour before kick-off a renewed sense of optimism could be seen on social media; United’s line up was far more attacking than most supporters expected. Louis Van Gaal has had a tendency to pick two holding midfielders against teams when one would do the job quite sufficiently. He has also failed to learn that all of the Red Devils’ best performances in the last two season have come when the formation has taken the shape of a 4-1-4-1 or a 4-3-3 (e.g: against Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester City last season as well as Arsenal and West Ham this season). Van Gaal must have noticed that the immobile midfield paring of Fellaini and Carrick against Villa was not fluid enough, and made an apology to the fans after the game for the unconvincing performance. To the fans’ confidence, Van Gaal reverted back to the 4-1-4-1 which had been so successful and exciting against West Ham. The back four lined up with the usual Blind-Smalling partnership in the centre whilst Valencia and Darmian took up fullback roles. Schneiderlin stood as the shield in front of the defence while Martial, Rooney, Mata and Lingard assisted Rashford at the attacking end of the pitch. With Rooney taking up a box-to-box role, making runs from deep in midfield and spreading the play effectively, and Mata orchestrating attacks, the other front three combined to show one of the brightest attacking performances from United this season, interchanging and running the Palace defence ragged.

David De Gea had one of his quietest nights at Old Trafford, not having to make a single save, and was only called upon to make one tackle and claim one cross. His easy pay-check was down to three factors. Firstly, Schneiderlin had his most effective game in a United shirt: shielding the defence, intercepting play and closing down Palace’s tricky forwards (Zaha and Sako) with incredible success. Secondly, Daley Blind, in particular, and Chris Smalling had very solid games at the heart of United’s defence, the former making five tackles and latter winning three aerials. The duo partnered with the ever-running fullbacks of Valencia and Darmian. Thirdly, Palace looked very much like a team looking toward their FA Cup fixture on Sunday; resting Bolasie and Dann (their two best players this season according to my Eagles flatmate) and just generally not looking very adventurous. The most threatening attacks came from the ex-United man Zaha, looking to prove a point to his former club. Unfortunately, the only point he proved was that United were right to have let him go. All-in-all, Manchester United kept another clean sheet, their 17th in 34 PL games this season.

In an attacking capacity, United were the most exciting they have been for a long time. Rooney played a box-to-box midfield role, but, because of Palace’s unwillingness to really test United, he was free to orchestrate attacks from deep or run directly at the Eagle’s defence before laying it off, both of which he did very efficiently. Mata had much more freedom than Rooney in his position, often popping up on the left and the right to interchange passes with the winger/fullback on each side, creating triangles of play which isolated Palace defenders with quick passes. The youthful forward three had very impressive games. Lingard was as industrious as ever, running off the ball to create space, interchanging clever passes with Mata and Valencia on a consistent basis and pressing the Palace defence when they were in possession, harrying them off the ball. While he hasn’t got the headline-grabbing dribbling or clinical finishing of Martial or Rashford, it is in no doubt that Lingard is a very useful player to this team. Rashford did what he does best for the entirety of the match, running into the channels to create space for his team mates and taking the opposition on directly when given the chance. He showed incredible strength late on in the second half when he chased a ball, which most strikers would have given up on, and shoved Mariappa (no weakling) off the ball to unselfishly lay it on a plate for Lingard, who couldn’t beat the spectacular Speroni. Martial played an inside-left role, a position which he is starting to make his strongest, and gave Kelly a torrid time; constantly cutting inside and letting rip some venomous shots, and was unlucky not to score.

While the attacking players were tearing up the Eagle’s defence, the man who actually had the most attacking impact was Matteo Darmian. The Italian fullback fired in a brilliant cross which forced Delaney into scoring an own goal and smashed in a scorching volley from a corner, both with his weaker left foot and whilst playing on the left side of defence (his weaker fullback side). No one would have predicted it and I was personally disappointed to see Darmian on the team-sheet ahead of Tim Fosu-Mensah, but that just shows why I am not the Manchester United manager.

Album: Explosions in the Sky – The Wilderness

Written by Callum Lunn on . Posted in Music.

Released 1st April 2016 via Temporary Residence Limited

9/10

Featured in everything from Friday Night Lights to Welcome to Night Vale, Explosions in the Sky are most well-known for having their music used in TV and film, and their soundtrack work. It’s been almost five years since the release of their last studio album, Take Care, Take Care, Take Care, but Explosions in the Sky have definitely not lost their touch.

The Wilderness has a very subtle electronic feel to it, with quiet, complimentary synths all throughout the album—and unusually, this adds to the feel rather than distracts from it. Not that this is entirely a ‘usual’ Explosions album. Rather than the massive, booming, driving anthems of previous albums, like Postcards from 1952, which present a sort of huge open musical landscape, The Wilderness seems to represent more a quiet, introspective and meditative scene. Even the album’s ‘climax’ track, ‘Disintegration Anxiety’, with its crunchy drums and fast riffs, lacks the usual dramatic, explosive climax.

This isn’t to say the album is an ambient one—there are plenty of faster, more upbeat sections, notably in ‘Infinite Orbit’, which unusually for this album opens with a fast drumbeat, and quickly builds up. Many of the other tracks also have upbeat moments, but the general feel of the album is one of solitude and quietness.

Furthermore, none of this is to say that the album is bad, and their departure (if only temporary) from their usual shtick is to be mourned—it shows that the band can subtly change their style and still maintain a very unique, very well held-together sound—that very few other post-rock bands have been able to replicate over the years.

Perhaps it is because of their association with uplifting, driving pieces for TV and film that Explosions in the Sky have tried to go in a different direction with The Wilderness. Since Take Care, Take Care, Take Care, they have made two soundtrack albums, and so perhaps this departure from their norm allowed the band to refresh their writing and create some truly beautiful music.

My only gripe with the album is that sometimes there is very little ‘flow’ between the pieces. For example, between ‘Losing the Light’ and ‘Infinite Orbit’, there is just a couple of seconds of silence before the fast drumbeat comes in. If there was more continuity it would help ‘smooth out’ the feel of the album.

Sticking around for the summer?

Written by Aj Mal on . Posted in Lifestyle.

As the second semester comes to an end, the majority of students will have dispersed, leaving the campus eerily deserted. But you’d be foolish to believe that Manchester grinds to a dismal halt in the upcoming months of summer.

The warm weather brings a summer full of outdoor gigs and festivals. Urban music festival season kicks off in June with Parklife; this year’s fantastic lineup includes the Chemical Brothers, Major Lazer, Diplo and Wolf Alice. A series of concerts on warm summer nights in Castlefield, with acts such as James Bay, and Guy Garvey amongst others, for the annual Summer in the City Concert series. The biennial Manchester International Festival is an internationally renowned fortnight of premieres and never before seen events, shows and gigs, which has brought exclusive gigs by Bjork and The xx—as well as Wonderland, a spectacular theatre production from Blur frontman Damon Albarn. Manchester International Festival is taking a break this year, but still, barely a week goes by without an event taking residence in the festival tent at Albert Square.

Summertime also brings Al Fresco food and drink to the city—with squares and pavements suddenly alive, and the beer gardens full to the brim. Places like Spinningfields and Castlefield really become their own when using their fantastic outdoor spaces in the usually rainy city. The Oast House is a particular favourite when the clouds eventually part. With its large outdoor space and relaxed atmosphere, the August Manchester Picnic brings the same outdoor eating vibe to Piccadilly Gardens.

This year’s sporting events include the Olympics, Wimbledon and the UEFA Euro 2016 football tournament. Seek out the big screens and you’ll soon discover that a party atmosphere with a bit of a crowd can be even more fun in Manchester than actually being at the event itself. Unique spaces have regularly included an urban beach complete with deck chairs and a cocktail bar—in contradiction, Stone Roses’ frontman Ian Brown has claimed that Manchester has everything but a beach! On that matter, the legendary Stone Roses have announced a new album and a series of concerts this summer; what will be massive sellout events.

For classical music lovers, the crescendo reaches it peak as the summer draws to a close. Take a picnic and a bottle or two of bubbly to enjoy whilst you marvel at the spectacular fireworks accompanying the Halle Orchestra as they perform live at Tatton Park. This glorious venue also hosts an annual yearly flower show.

Every year, at the end of August, Manchester Pride brings a huge influx of visitors into the city. Headliners this summer include Katy B, Judge Jules and Will Young. For a more refined genre of entertainment, the 24:7 Theatre Festival brings the best of the year’s plays back for mini productions in unusual locations. There are also regular plays held in many of the city’s parks—with Heaton Park, and Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden being wonderfully atmospheric places to watch Shakespeare or Oscar Wilde as the sun sets. Actors have bravely carried on even when the sudden downpours have interrupted the rare sunshine.

So grab the suncream and get ready for a great time, as with so many things happening, Manchester is the perfect place to spend the summer. Let’s face it, beaches are overrated anyway!

Graduation Gratitude

Written by Perisha Kudhail on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

With Graduation, less than three months away, surely our priorities lie in deciding what we’re all going to wear for our graduation? For those celebrating graduation in the summer, the world is our oyster and the weather will permit us to wear pretty much whatever we want (just make sure an umbrella is on hand).

Graduation is a milestone in any student’s life and you want to look great when reaping the reward for years of hard work. Here are my top picks for potential graduation outfits which are bound to make you feel great on your big day.

Flaring is caring

For those of you who want to embrace the summer and take on an individual look, MANGO’s Flared Skirt Dress (above) is the perfect pick. Available in three colours, the simplicity that this dress offers is a great way to achieve class.

TRY: Team this dress with white peep toe heels and accessories to get the full on summer graduation look.

Jumping for Joy

The Jumpsuit is a fabulous all in one option to take your look to many different levels. Try with this great halter jumpsuit that brings a smart look to the table.

Topshop Halter Jumpsuit £69.00
Photo: Topshop

TRY: Team this up with some coloured heels and chunky bracelets to really bring out your personality or keep it classy with gold accessories and black heels.

Slim is never grim

When it comes to graduation there is a variety of looks you could go for when choosing a suit. From different fitting to different colours.  This three piece slim fit suit is a brilliant summer pick for graduation.

French Connection Slim Fit Bright Blue Milled Suit
Photo: Moss Bros

TRY: Pair this blue suit with some tan shoes and don’t be scared of experimenting with tie colours.

The Cream of the Crop

Don’t think that suits are restricted to men, women can also rock a suit look. This outstanding cropped trouser suit will just ooze sophistication on your graduation day.

ASOS Premium Linen Suit Culottes £38.00
ASOS Premium Linen Clean Suit Blazer £55.00
Photo: ASOS

TRY: With a pastel suit, keep your look in the same palette by wearing accessories that are a darker shade to enhance the summer colours.

Better safe than sorry

You can make any outfit your own, but here are a few must haves for your graduation in Manchester to stay safe from the rain. Riri would be proud.

British Belt Company Umbrella £15.00  
Photo: ASOS ASOS Original Duckhead Umbrella £22.00
Photo: ASOS

Hopefully these picks have given you some inspiration about what to wear to graduation. Remember it is a day to celebrate your achievements, so you should own it and feel good while you’re walking up there. Congrats on making it so far! See you on the other side!

Manchester City 0-0 Real Madrid

Written by Harry Newton on . Posted in Sport.

Bolstered by the news that Cristiano Ronaldo was out of the game, City fans were in fine voice for their team’s first ever Champions League semi-final. The mosaic of flags before the game was especially effective as the fans took to their seats early to sing their hearts out and wave their flags waiting for the team to come out the tunnel. And in true City fashion, as they did exit the tunnel, the fans burst into boos at the Champions League anthem. The prospect of City fans being able to do this at the San Siro in the Champions League final is certainly an interesting one.

Although it won’t go down as a classic Champions League match, the 0-0 draw at The Etihad between Manchester City and Real Madrid had its fair share of action, and a great sense of professionalism from both sides. Both sides defended very well, hence the lack of real clear cut chances, and the midfield tug-of-war brought about great performances from Real Madrid’s Luka Modrić, and Manchester City’s midfield pair Fernando and Fernandinho.

Photo: Harry Newton

Despite the lack of chances throughout the game, it was Joe Hart yet again that saved City’s skin! The keeper pulled off two phenomenal saves: One from a Casemiro header, and another from point-blank range as Pepe shot at the keeper. Both looked like certain goals but the Englishman’s reflexes were well up to the job. Hart now has the most saves in the UEFA Champions League out of any keeper this season, and some of them have been exceptional. Despite these two chances, however, Hart was rarely tested as Fernandinho and Fernando in the middle showcased fantastic energy levels to stop the Madrid attacks. Although football fans may prefer watching the fancy flicks and back-heels of attacking players, Fernando’s game-saving interceptions and crunching challenges were just as impressive as any bicycle kick.

A first half injury to David Silva led to the introduction of teenager Kelechi Iheanacho for his Champions League debut. Despite how Iheanacho had a fantastic game at the weekend, grabbing two goals against Stoke City, his introduction meant a change in formation for City that altered the game. The 4-2-3-1 formation was working very well, as Fernando and Fernandinho commanded the midfield and Kevin de Bruyne in the attacking midfield position was creating the opportunities for the blues. The switch to 4-2-2-2, however, pushed De Bruyne to the wing and was less effective on the attack, leaving a hole in the middle.

City had few chances in the game despite their midfield efforts, as Sergio Agüero was kept quiet, but it was in the dying moments of the game when their best chance came. Substitute Raheem Sterling was put through on goal, but a heavy touch took the chance away from him quicker than the pacey winger could get there. The keeper collected.

A draw was a fair result in the end, as City controlled the first half, and Real Madrid had a better share of the ball of in the second due to Luka Modrić almost single-handedly turning the midfield battle on its head late in the second half. Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane stated after the game that he believed the game was 50/50. He also said plenty other things, but I was far too busy sat with my mouth open drooling at the prospect of being ten feet away from Zinedine Zidane. The crowd of journalists ooh’d each time he opened his mouth and his glistening teeth sent a ray of light bouncing off the walls. The spotlight shone off his head like it would from the halo of a footballing angel. It’s hard to believe this is the same head that sent Marco Materazzi toppling to the ground in the 2006 World Cup. I know it wasn’t your fault Zizou… I know.

Photo: Harry Newton

The performance was professional and astute, handsome and suave… Oh, sorry, I’m thinking of Zinedine again. Yes, the performance was professional from Manchester City and they managed to keep the all-important clean sheet at The Etihad. Both managers stressed in the post-match press conference that neither team is favourite to go through to the final, but City will feel confident after keeping Madrid out for 90 minutes already. We’ll all have to wait another eight days to find out though! It’s fun, this Champion League malarkey, isn’t it?