Here it is below, embedded from YouTube, Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal giving his post-match interview after United played another dull, drab 0-0 draw with West Ham United. It’s the fifth goalless draw in the last nine games for the Red Devils, and their fourth 0-0 result in their last six at home.
Many words are being used to describe United right now- insipid, boring, unentertaining, tedious, sleep-inducing.
I guess that’s why it’s called the “Theatre of Dreams,” because you’re asleep! Zing! Anyway, Van Gaal was asked if he understands where the fans are coming from with their boos and he doesn’t seem to get it. He does though understand that the supporters have every right to boo.
Van Gaal makes a very odd response there when he said that fans don’t have a right to expect his team to score goals. The Dutchman said that there is an element of luck involved that he can’t control. Sure that is true, there is an element of luck involved in scoring, but United aren’t even getting chances. The Red Devils aren’t even getting shots on target to begin with. So I have to strongly disagree with LVG’s point there.
Also, on a philosophical level he’s entirely wrong- YOU SHOULD EXPECT TO SEE GOALS SCORED. That’s just a basic component of the game.
If you watch football, you expect to see some goals at some point. If you watch baseball, you should expect to see some runs scored. If you watch basketball, you should expect to see some dunks and three-pointers.
I understand that Van Gaal has to say something to justify his boring philosophy and lack of attacking methods. I get that he needs to put some sort of legitimate response out there, but I don’t buy that explanation or that opinion for a second. Fans deserve to see scoring.
Paul M. Banks owns, operates and sometimes writes The Sports Bank.net, which is partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network. The website is also featured on News Now.
Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, currently contributes to the Chicago Tribune RedEye. He also appears regularly on numerous television and radio talk shows all across the country. Catch him Tuesdays on KOZN 1620 The Zone.
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