Blind: Patience Reaped Rewards

Daley Blind praised his Manchester United team-mates for their patience after the 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford in the Barclays Premier League.

Second-half goals from Jesse Lingard – his first for United – and a penalty from Juan Mata in additional time sealed the three points for the Reds on Saturday afternoon.

Blind admits the first half was frustrating as the Reds struggled to break down an organised Baggies defence, but the defender believes it was crucial his side remained calm.

"They were really organised and difficult to play against," Blind told MUTV. "We were really patient and created chances. We scored an important goal and from there on they tried to press a bit but I think we did well."

Blind feels that, if United are to be successful this season, the team will need to come to terms with the defensive tactics of many visiting sides to Old Trafford.

"I think a lot of teams come here to get a point," the Dutchman continued. "We have to be patient and move the ball quickly, and sometimes it takes a while before you get a chance, but in the end we got the three points and that’s the most important thing.”

At 1-0, West Brom manager Tony Pulis replaced James Morrison and Saloman Rondon with Saido Berahino and Rickie Lambert as his side looked for a way back into the game. And Blind was pleased with the way United stayed focused to record a fourth consecutive clean sheet in the league.

"They tried to force something but I think we did well," he said. "We still didn’t give away any good chances. I think we were very organised when we were attacking and defending.

"We’re doing well now. We go on from here, we’re really focused and organised and helping each other whenever possible. It’s always a nice feeling for the team and especially me as a defender to get a clean sheet."

The Reds go into the international break on the back of a win for the first time this season and Blind admits it's a "great feeling", but he knows the importance of building on Saturday's win when the Reds return to action against Watford on 21 November.

"It’s very close with other teams," he added. "We’re doing well and we’ve got to perform like this so we can build on the victory and win games."