Dejected United

By Chris
February 28 2014

Manchester United produced a spineless, lethargic display in Greece and must now overturn a two-goal deficit at Old Trafford to keep dreams of winning the European Cup for a fourth time on track.

Following the victory at Selhurst Park on the weekend, supporters travelled to Athens in a buoyant mood in the hope that United could take a big leap towards the last eight of Europe's elite competition.

The Champions League has offered tonic for under-pressure David Moyes this season, with a stunning 5-0 win away at Bayer Leverkusen amongst the finest moments of the Scot's turbulent tenure at the helm to date. However, this display was a Greek Tragedy for United.

Remarkably, United appeared complacent and unprepared for a Greek side that continue to run away with their country's Super League, having avoided defeat from 26 outings and conceded only nine goals.

The Red Devils registered only one shot on target throughout the game, were constantly jittery in defence and lacked a commanding figure to get a grip of proceedings.

Creativity was also devoid - and, whether you believe all of the hype about Adnan Januzaj or not, the decision not to include the youngster amongst the substitutes was surprising given that United have lacked a spark for much of this worrying campaign.

The deadlock was broken seven minutes before half-time as Alejandro Dominguez left David De Gea stranded as he sent Giannis Maniatis' effort into the back of the net, to the delight of the home support that made an incredible noise throughout.

United failed to improve after half-time and the hosts doubled their lad courtesy of a fine, curling strike from Arsenal loanee Joel Campbell. The youngster too easily beat sluggish Michael Carrick before firing home as Olympiacos showed a cutting edge despite the absence of striker Javier Saviola through injury.

Whilst the Red Devils briefly threatened an away goal in the closing stages, it would have been harsh on their hard-working hosts, who thoroughly deserve their two-goal advantage.

Moyes' first season has been disappointing on many levels, but United's European campaign has maintained an element of optimism and hope. That is not extinguished yet - United are capable of turning this around at Old Trafford, but they're now underdogs with the bookmakers and will need a big, big improvement on this very poor display.

Full Time - Olympiacos 2-0 Manchester United
Attendance - 29,815