Juan Mata Put Manchester United Up On Liverpool Thanks to Brilliant Pass from Ander Herrera

Juan Mata beat Simon Mignolet at the far post to put Manchester United up 1-0 against Liverpool at Anfield Sunday morning. The finish was nice, but it was all about the inch-perfect 30+ yard pass from Ander Herrera near midfield. I’d guess Lionel Messi would nod his head in approval at Herrera’s vision to set up his countryman.

Obviously Mata’s run deserve some credit, too, as he exploited the space found in Liverpool’s three-man/wingback defensive system.

Remember a couple weeks ago when Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal lost his mind over accusations his team relied on “long balls”? Herrera’s pass probably doesn’t fall under the tactical definition of long balls, but it was still a fine pass that traveled a long distance to reach its intended target.

Sunday’s result will go a long way toward either teams’ hopes of playing in the Champions League next season.

RELATED: English Soccer Players Decide to Outline Injured Ref with Vanishing Spray