- by Joe Curtis, writing from Miami
The roots of the rivalry between these two cities, which are 30 miles (48km) apart, can be traced back to the industrial revolution when Liverpool and Manchester where fighting for economic superiority in Northwest England. The rivalry transfered onto the pitch and grew as Manchester United supporters watched in envy as their neighbors reigned supreme for the majority of the 1970s, and 80s. This successful run over two decades resulted in Liverpool becoming the most decorated club in English history, and in 2005 they added their record 5th European Cup title. The construction of the Manchester Ship Canal catapulted the City of Manchester into the battle for economic power and the hiring of Alex Ferguson in November 1986 launched Manchester United into consistent challenges to lift the league title. As United slowly established themselves as one of the top clubs, Liverpool’s superiority began to decline as the Red Devils conquered 11 Premier League titles in the last 18 seasons.
With both teams now competing for a league title and bragging rights, the emotions of both players and supporters elevated to a point where both sides felt a deep hatred. It is a beautiful thing when players share the same emotions as fans, to see players leave everything on the pitch in order to conquer the pride in the Northwest region of England.
Last season Manchester United struggled offensively with the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo and Liverpool has seen better days as they finished 7th last season eliminating them from a Champions League birth. However, Liverpool won three out of the last four encounter with Man United and tomorrow they look to make it four as the two struggling football titans will clash once again. Manchester United great Paul Scholes commented on the rivalry:
“Liverpool did not have a great season last year but whenever you play them it is still a massive game.” he continued in saying that “You can’t get away from the fact that both teams don’t really like each other. We are both desperate to win and I don’t think that will ever change.”As Paul Scholes stated the battle to surpass one another will keep the rivalry alive for as long as both clubs exist. The only question that is still unanswered, who will be on top when we get to that point in the future?
