Manchester United Vs. West Ham United Match Result Report

United were just too good. The Reds dominated right from the start and West Ham's futile resistance only lasted until the 33rd minute when Wayne Rooney opened his account for the season from the penalty spot. Goals of unquestionable class from Nani and Dimitar Berbatov followed after the break, sealing as convincing and comfortable a 3-0 win as you are ever likely to witness.

Avram Grant’s side arrived at Old Trafford bottom of the table and without a win in their first two games – defeats to Aston Villa and Bolton Wanderers, which on both occasions saw them concede three goals. Their narrow 1-0 midweek win over Oxford offered some respite, but the second round of the League Cup is a far cry from Old Trafford, and the gulf in class was brutally apparent.

However, United too had a point to prove – which Sir Alex's men would do emphatically – after dropping two against Fulham last weekend. Sir Alex made three changes to the team that drew 2-2 at Craven Cottage. Rooney, who missed the Fulham trip with a stomach bug, replaced Javier Hernandez up front alongside Berbatov. Nani was drafted in for Antonio Valencia, while Ryan Giggs replaced Ji-sung Park.

The autumnal weather in Manchester – a seemingly random mix of wind, sun and rain – left a slick surface which, as well as encouraging a few late sliding tackles from West Ham’s feistier players, allowed United’s rapid passing to blossom.

Rooney registered the first effort on goal after 10 minutes, shuffling across the Rooney, Berbatov and Nani at the centre of it. The latter two men combined on 20 minutes for a move that should have yielded the first goal. Vidic’s long, diagonal ball forward picked out Berbatov in space. The Bulgarian – nonchalantly as is his way – flicked the ball back into the path of Nani, whose thunderous effort crashed off the crossbar via a vital fingertip save from Green.

West Ham, for their part, offered energy and industry but little genuine quality. And after 33 minutes United finally took the lead from the penalty spot. Paul Scholes' sumptuous pass picked out Ryan Giggs on the left and he befuddled former Red Jonathan Spector and was subsequently clumsily fouled by the American. After Nani’s miss last week at Fulham, and with United’s talisman back in the team, there was no doubting who would take this penalty. Rooney stepped up confidently, arced his run and sent Green the wrong way to give United a deserved lead.

Clearly in the ascendancy the Reds went searching for a second before the break. Darren Fletcher forced another fine save from Green, this time with a curling effort from 25 yards that West Ham’s shot-stopper turned around the post. Then Berbatov fired over from six yards with a difficult shot on the bounce, while Nani also shot over the bar with a lob that required a far more delicate touch to beat the onrushing Green. United went in at the interval with a slender 1-0 lead; fully dominant thought not completely ruthless in front of goal.

But there was no profligacy from Nani five minutes into the second half. The Portuguese winger cut inside from his station on the right, had defenders back-tracking and falling over their own feet, then struck a vicious left-footed shot past Green from 18 yards to make it 2-0.

United’s football at times was sublime, the neat trickery and interchanging play between Berbatov and Nani in particular catching the eye. Admittedly, West Ham looked lost defensively. Kieron Dyer hit the outside of the Edwin van der Sar’s post after 55 minutes, but it says it all that the Hammers fans almost didn't notice, they were preoccupied with entertaining themselves with their repertoire of songs.

The Reds’ third goal was the best of the lot and came after 69 minutes, unsurprisingly with Nani and Berbatov combining to score it. Nani pitched up a cross to the far post and Berbatov waited unmarked before scissor-kicking the ball past Green. Technically wonderful, with pin-sharp precision, summing up the Bulgarian's input all afternoon.

With the points wrapped up, Sir Alex made a triple substitution with fifteen minutes to go. Chris Smalling came on for his home debut, replacing Jonny Evans; Michael Owen made his first appearance at OT since suffering an injury in February, in place of Berbatov; while Michael Carrick came on for the, once again, impressive Scholes. The Hammers fans' joked “we’re going to win 4-3” and even resorted to pretending they’d scored four goals to clinch victory. There was no chance of that, of course, United were a class above Avram Grant’s side. And while performances like this indicate that the Reds will be challenging at the top end of the table this term, so too it suggests that West Ham will be scrapping at the exact opposite end of the table. Read more...

Manchester United Vs. West Ham United Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [3 - 0] West Ham United
33' [1 - 0] W. Rooney (pen.)
50' [2 - 0] Nani
69' [3 - 0] D. Berbatov

Read more...

Fulham Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report

Despite twice taking the lead, through Paul Scholes' 150th club goal and a Brede Hangeland own-goal, United were held to a frustrating draw at Craven Cottage.

A bright start from the Reds was rewarded with a powerful long-range strike from the veteran midfielder, but Fulham manfully rode out the storm, clawed their way back into the game and equalised when Davies converted Damien Duff's low cross.

In a breathless finish to the afternoon, Hangeland struck twice from corners in the space of five minutes; first deflecting home Nani's centre to put United back into the lead, then powerfully heading in a 90th-minute leveller for the hosts. Irritatingly for United, the Norwegian's pair bookended a missed penalty from Nani which would have sealed victory.

As Wayne Rooney was left in Manchester to recover from a virus, Sir Alex Ferguson retained a 4-4-2 formation, and paired Chicharito with Dimitar Berbatov. The only other change from the side which overcame Newcastle was the introduction of Ji-sung Park, who took the place of Nani on the left wing.

Even without the injured Mark Schwarzer in goal, Fulham's line-up - also in 4-4-2 - appeared more than capable of testing United's will to avoid a third successive defeat at Craven Cottage.

The hosts were on the back foot early on as United popped passes around with conviction, but struggled to find a route through the Cottagers' well-drilled stand-in stopper was helpless to prevent United taking the lead from the ensuing corner.

Antonio Valencia swapped passes with Park and fizzed a low cross into Berbatov. The Bulgarian's controlled layoff to Scholes was inch-perfect, as the onrushing veteran arced a powerful 25-yard effort through a cluster of bodies and beyond Stockdale.

Following on from magnificent play-making displays against Chelsea and Newcastle, Scholes' landmark - and trademark - goal was yet further evidence of his enduring excellence.

Fulham's response was one of defiance, as Simon Davies hooked a volley just over Edwin van der Sar's crossbar and Jonny Evans had to be alert to cut out Clint Dempsey's through-ball for Bobby Zamora, but United's play still carried a menacing edge.

Berbatov slipped below the hosts' radar time and again, dropping deep to collect and spread the ball, while Darren Fletcher governed central midfield with an all-action display. Stockdale was twice called into action by the Bulgarian, tipping away one powerful near-post effort and clutching a stinging 20-yarder into his midriff.

Still Fulham chipped away at United, however, and it took a breathtaking double save from van der Sar to preserve parity. Dempsey's fine through-ball found Dickson Etuhu, whose first shot was parried out by the Dutchman, while his Patrice Evra was left in Duff's wake by a neat piece of trickery on the right flank, and the winger sped towards goal before feeding Zamora. The latter's tantalising pull back into the middle of the area allowed Davies to slot home.

The goal was fully merited for Fulham's spirited, controlled display after a shaky start, and it was of no surprise that both teams harboured hopes of taking all three points in the remainder of the second period.

It was United who came closest to doing so, as Chicharito fired over from 20 yards and a Berbatov header deflected off Scholes, straight to Stockdale. Nani, Ryan Giggs and Michael Owen all entered the fray, at the expense of Park, Valencia and Chicharito, and Nani soon came close with a free-kick from the edge of the Fulham area.

Nemanja Vidic headed Giggs' corner narrowly wide as United cranked up the pressure, but a collective lapse in concentration allowed Zamora to fire wastefully wide when a square ball to Etuhu would have given the midfielder a simple conversion.

Soon enough a white-clad player was on target, but at the wrong end. As the Reds turned the screw, Nani's corner landed amid a cluster of bodies, struck Hangeland on the knee and ricocheted between Stockdale and substitute Jonathan Greening on the line.

If Fulham's sense of injustice was provoked by the slapstick nature of their alive.

The importance of that passage of play materialised in the final minute of normal time. The Cottagers equalised for a second time, as Duff's floated corner was emphatically headed home by Hangeland to cancel out his earlier mistake.

Fulham's spirit was worth a share of the spoils, but Sir Alex Ferguson and his players will share seething frustration at having twice surrendered the lead, and passed up a glorious chance to seal the points. Read more...

Fulham Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clip

Fulham [2 - 2] Manchester United
11' [0 - 1] P. Scholes
57' [1 - 1] S. Davies
84' [1 - 2] B. Hangeland (o.g.)
90' [2 - 2] B. Hangeland

Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Newcastle United Match Result Report

The Reds’ quest to regain the Barclays Premier League title began at Old Trafford on Monday night with a commanding win over newly-promoted Newcastle United.

Goals from Dimitar Berbatov and Darren Fletcher gave the home side a deserved lead at the break before substitute Ryan Giggs volleyed home a third to underline United’s dominance. By then, though, it was all academic: the result never looked in doubt against a Magpies outfit that struggled to take flight, despite an encouraging opening 10 minutes.

Before kick-off there was greater-than-usual anticipation in the pre-match television build-up, as fans waited to see what sort of side Sir Alex would name for this season opener. It soon transpired there was no room for the summer signings, as both Chris Smalling and Javier Hernandez started on the bench. Berbatov and Wayne Rooney were given the nod to lead the attack, while Patrice Evra, despite not featuring in any of United’s pre-season preparations, took up his familiar left-back position.
Fletcher and Paul Scholes, the latter taking part in his 15th consecutive opening-day fixture, were charged with bossing the centre of midfield and in former Red Alan Smith and tough-tackling Joey Barton found themselves up against formidable and physical foes.

The Magpies endured the expected early spell of sustained Reds pressure, but it was Chris Hughton’s side who fashioned the game's first real opportunity. Andy Carroll had done well to win a corner off Vidic and it was the young centre- should have done better than head wide from six yards out.

At the other end, Sir Alex’s men were restricted to speculative shots from distance. Smith bravely blocked from O’Shea while neither Nani nor Rooney could bend free-kicks around the Newcastle wall. Worryingly for the vocal visiting support, though, Newcastle's stubborn defending appeared to be accompanied by a desire to self-destruct, as James Perch and Fabricio Coloccini both gifted possession to the Reds in dangerous areas of the pitch. But Sir Alex's men did themselves no favours, either: Scholes, masterful for most of the night, uncharacteristically picked the wrong pass when United had the Magpies on the back foot before Rooney unwittingly nicked a volley off Berbatov's toes and then blasted over from 12 yards.

United's perseverance and patience paid off on 33 minutes, though, when Berbatov latched onto Scholes' pass to fire the Reds into the lead. Jose Enrique managed the merest of touches on Scholes' defence-splitting ball but couldn't divert it away from Berbatov, who finished low and hard into the far corner.

The visitors hinted at an immediate equaliser but United soon took the reins again, monopolising possession and asserting dominance. And it wasn't long before the second goal arrived. Good link-up play from Nani and Evra on the left flank released the Frenchman into the penalty area. From there, his drilled cross bounced off Rooney and up, tantalisingly, for Fletcher to hit on the spin and send the Reds into the break with a deserved two-goal cushion.

The interval provided welcome respite for the visitors, but within minutes of the restart Sir Alex's men were terrorising the Newcastle back four again. In fact, the hosts could easily have been four goals to the good by the hour mark. Scholes was denied what looked a decent shout for a penalty under a rash challenge by Coloccini before a delicious move involving five one-touch passes ended with Berbatov poking the ball just wide of Steve Harper’s left-hand upright.

Rooney’s frustrating evening – little came off for the England striker, who’s still without a club goal since March – came to an end on 63 minutes when Sir Alex introduced Javier Hernandez for his Old Trafford bow. The 22-year-old's every touch was cheered by the home crowd and Scholes and Nani wasted no time in playing balls in behind the Newcastle defence for the speedy Mexican to chase.

Berbatov thrice produced clever skill close to goal that was exciting yet ultimately fruitless, while Newcastle substitute Shola Ameobi came closest for the visitors in the second half when he headed Barton’s corner well wide of the mark on 80 minutes.

In truth, though, the contest had been over after 45 minutes. It was clear then where the three points were heading; Ryan Giggs’ superb third – a volley with the outside of the foot after he’d been picked out by Scholes (who else?) at the back post – was little more than icing on the cake. Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Newcastle United Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [3 - 0] Newcastle United
33' [1 - 0] D. Berbatov
41' [2 - 0] D. Fletcher
85' [3 - 0] R. Giggs

Read more...

Tiago Manuel Dias Correia or Bebe Highlights Video Clips

Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Stoke City Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [4 - 0] Stoke City
31' [1 - 0] D. Fletcher
38' [2 - 0] R. Giggs
54' [3 - 0] D. Higginbotham (o.g.)
84' [4 - 0] J. Park

1-0 Fletcher 31'

2-0 Giggs 38'

3-0 Higginbotham (OG) 54'

4-0 Park J-S. 84'
Read more...

Sunderland Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report

When the pressure’s on, Manchester United so often produce the goods. Knowing defeat at the Stadium of Light would hand the title to Chelsea, Sir Alex’s men turned in a polished performance against a feisty Sunderland side to ensure the title race will now go down to the wire.
The win – achieved courtesy of a solitary goal from Nani's right boot – means Chelsea lead by just one point heading into the final day of the season. The Blues host Wigan, while United welcome Stoke City to Old Trafford.

It can’t have been easy for Sir Alex’s men to step onto the pitch in Sunderland after seeing Chelsea beat Liverpool at Anfield in the day’s early kick-off. But the Reds, boosted by the inclusion of Wayne Rooney from the opening whistle, began brightly.

Rooney, who had started only two of United’s last five fixtures, took just four minutes to make an impact, chesting down a cross from Dimitar Berbatov and volleying towards the far post. Sunderland goalkeeper Craig Gordon was equal to the task and then grateful to his defenders for blocking Ryan Giggs’ follow-up.

At the other end, the home side threatened twice from set pieces: John Mensah headed wide from an early corner before captain Lorik Cana flicked that occasion, just as he was on 28 minutes when Nani fired low and hard past the Scottish stopper to give United the lead.

The Portuguese, starting in his preferred position on the right wing, applied the finish with the outside of his boot, but he owed the goal to the invention of Dimitar Berbatov, Wayne Rooney and Darren Fletcher, who all played one-touch passes in the build-up to bamboozle the Black Cats’ back four. The goal was Nani’s fourth in his last four starts and reaffirmed the belief that the Reds’ no.17 is currently enjoying the form of his life.

United continued to dominate without ever really testing the Sunderland defence, although both Evra and Berbatov missed half chances to extend the lead before the break. Evra was at the heart of the action again in first-half stoppage time when he headed a tame effort off the line, but it would have been harsh on United had Sunderland pulled level at that stage.

The scoreline would have better reflected United's dominance had Nani’s effort early in the second half found the net. Instead, Gordon stood up well to block from close range. Then Berbatov twice missed the target from close range (the first from barely a yard out) after clever play from Rooney on both occasions. United had made enough chances to have put the game to bed by this stage and Reds fans must have been wondering if their team would be made to pay for such wasteful finishing.

was particularly physical and relished his battle with Paul Scholes and Darren Fletcher. Scholes, yet again, was United’s star performer. Tough in the tackle and always looking to take the ball in tight spaces, he set the tempo in midfield and passed the ball superbly all afternoon.

Sir Alex sent on Michael Carrick for Berbatov on 71 minutes to add stability in midfield but the change did little to take the sting out of United’s attacking intentions. Within a minute, Rooney sent a ferocious effort just wide of Gordon’s right-hand post after Fletcher’s initial shot had been blocked. Carrick then went close after Nani teed up the former Tottenham midfielder on the edge of the box. His low shot beat Gordon but not Michael Turner, who had stationed himself on the line after the goalkeeper had ventured out to attempt to win the ball.

Ex-Red Fraizer Campbell hooked the ball wide with eight minutes remaining to remind United of just how precarious a 1-0 lead can be, but it was the last time the home side even remotely threatened. In the end, Nani's goal was enough to clinch the points and keep Sir Alex's men in the hunt for a 19th league title. There was even time – barely – for Owen Hargreaves to return to first-team football after 19 months on the sidelines and give United fans another reason to smile on the way home to Manchester.

But will the Premier League trophy end up in M16 next weekend? Let's be honest: it would take a minor miracle – Wigan must earn at least a point at Stamford Bridge assuming United beat Stoke – but in this most unpredictable of seasons it would be foolish to give up hope just yet. Read more...

Sunderland Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Sunderland [0 - 1] Manchester United
28' [0 - 1] Nani

Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Tottenham Hotspurs Match Result Report

The sprint finish for the title is well and truly on as United cranked up the pressure on Chelsea, the Reds moving two points clear at the summit of the Barclays Premier League – naturally, not without drama – in a game that went from frustrating to fraught before a Nani-inspired grandstand finish.

Ryan Giggs put United in front from the spot in the second half, but Tottenham equalised through Ledley King and arguably looked like being the team to win it. However, the victory was secured by some brilliance from Nani. The Portuguese winger scored with an audacious chipped finish with nine minutes left, before earning a second penalty for Giggs to convert to ensure a 3-1 win.

That there would be drama and frayed nerves should not have come as a surprise in a topsy-turvy season which took arguably its wildest twist last weekend.

United were seconds away from being out of the title race altogether at Eastlands when the derby was headed for a draw. In the third minute of injury time a Paul Scholes-of-old late dart into the box and header into the bottom corner clinched three points. That dramatic win was capped by Tottenham’s defeat of Chelsea later that day. Game on in the title race.

Tottenham posed a serious risk after their wins over the Blues and Arsenal. As difficult as this fixture already was, it was made more difficult when Wayne Rooney was ruled out with a groin problem. Sir Alex intimated on Friday that he had “one or two doubts”, but Rooney’s availability was only publicly brought to light when he was pictured watching the Under-18s at Carrington on Saturday morning.

His absence was confirmed when the teams were announced, so too was news that Rio Ferdinand was missing again. But Owen Hargreaves’ return on the bench, and the prospect of his first action in 19 months, came as a very welcome boost. The Reds lined up with Paul Scholes and Darren Fletcher in central midfield, Antonio Valencia and Nani on the flanks and Ryan Giggs operating just behind Dimitar Berbatov up front.

However, it was an uncharacteristically quiet start, Tottenham making much of the early running and controlling play. That was perhaps down to Spurs’ confidence, maybe the importance of getting a result weighed on the United players’ minds, or perhaps it was because of Rooney’s absence – noticeable in the stands as much as on the pitch – but something was needed to bring United out of their shell. The truth of it was that, by the midway point in the first half, neither side had had a shot on target.

United's best opening came after 29 minutes. Nani slipped a pass to Evra who crossed for Giggs, but the ball never reached the Welshman. Berbatov was quickest to react, but his goal-bound strike was blocked by King. Seconds later, Valencia raced clear on goal, shrugged off the attentions of Gareth Bale and forced an excellent low save from Heurelho Gomes, although Berbatov was screaming for a squared pass. Two minutes later Evra volleyed over from 12 yards; United’s tails were up – the men in red just needed to make it count.

Spurs, despite their early possession, were far from potent in the final third. Their best chance of the first half was a Bale free-kick, after Nani’s foul on David Bentley earned him a booking, but it didn’t trouble Edwin van der Sar. It was United who threatened to score more than the Lilywhites. Berbatov saw a volley five minutes before half time rise over the bar. The half which had started so timidly from the home side, ended far more positively – albeit without the goal United craved to settle everyone’s nerves.

The Reds were first out after the break and urged on by the Stretford End. From a short corner seven minutes in, Berbatov headed agonisingly wide – with Fletcher narrowly missing out on turning the ball over the line. Then Nani hit the side-netting after a neat turn and shot inside the area. United were in the ascendancy and the breakthrough finally came after 58 minutes. Berbatov did well to escape the attentions of Benoit Assou-Ekotto. He brilliantly backheeled the ball to Evra but the Spurs defender fouled the Frenchman and a penalty was correctly awarded. Without Rooney, Giggs took spot-kick duties and coolly slotted the ball past Gomes. It wasn’t without cost – Berbatov injured his groin in the build-up, Evra had already been sick on the pitch, and Valencia was forced off - replaced by Michael Carrick – after clashing with King. Most importantly, United were in front.

The Reds were hardly settling on the lead, but Tottenham hadn’t given up hope either. And their attitude was rewared on 70 minutes. From Bale’s corner, King rose above Carrick and headed into the far corner beyond Rafael on the post. With 20 minutes remaining, the question now was: what did United have left in the locker?

Sir Alex brought on Federico Macheda with ten minutes to go, hoping the Italian teenager could reprise his heroics of last season against Aston Villa. And while he didn’t provide the finish, Macheda’s neat ball set up Nani for the crucial second goal. It was Nani's finish that really caught the eye. His dinked finish over Gomes was sublime and worthy of winning any football match. It was similar to that of Lionel Messi against Arsenal in the Champions League, but arguably a more high-pressure situation with nine minutes left and United's season on the line.

United, and Nani, were not finished there. The Portuguese picked up the ball on the halfway line and charged at the Tottenham defence. After twisting Michael Dawson’s inside-out, he drew a foul from Wilson Palacios to earn a second penalty of the game. Giggs went to Gomes’ left this time, but his spot-kick was equally as unstoppable. The Stretford End bounced, singing ‘we shall not be moved’. United are back on top of the league. Chelsea - who take on Stoke on Sunday - the ball is in your court... Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Tottenham Hotspurs Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [3 - 1] Tottenham Hotspurs
58' [1 - 0] R. Giggs (pen.)
70' [1 - 1] L. King
81' [2 - 1] Nani
86' [3 - 1] R. Giggs (pen.)

Read more...

Manchester City Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Manchester City [0 - 1] Manchester United
90' [0 - 1] P. Scholes

ma Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Chelsea Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [1 - 2] Chelsea
20' [0 - 1] J. Cole
79' [0 - 2] D. Drogba
81' [1 - 2] F. Macheda

Read more...

Bayern Munich Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Bayern Munich [2 - 1] Manchester United
2' [0 - 1] W. Rooney
77' [1 - 1] F. Ribery
90' [2 - 1] I. Olic

Read more...

Bolton Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report

United reclaimed pole position in powerful style on Saturday evening, routing Bolton at the Reebok in response to Chelsea’s earlier slaughter of Aston Villa.

After a Jloyd Samuel own goal gifted the Reds a half-time lead, Dimitar Berbatov made certain of three big points with his first league brace for United. Darron Gibson then added a late fourth goal after coming on as a substitute.

The margin of victory was no more than the champions deserved, having dictated proceedings with the likes of Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs pulling the strings and Nani and Antonio Valencia stretching the play on the opposite flanks.

Darren Fletcher was also heavily involved, almost creating the opener with a similar cross to his assist against Liverpool – only this time it yielded not a header from Park, but a wonderful volley by Berbatov, well saved by Jussi Jaaskelainen. Fletcher laid the ball off to Jonny Evans when the ensuing corner wasn’t cleared but the Irishman, in for Rio Ferdinand, couldn’t keep his shot down and Bolton breathed a sigh of relief.

However, the best chance of the first half-hour was for the home side, when Jack Wilshere – on loan from Arsenal – played Elmander into the left-hand channel. The big Swede looked odds-on to score but his powerful shot was beaten away by the strong hand of Edwin van der Sar.

Ryan Giggs was revelling in his first start since mid-February and he was unlucky not to hit the target after teeing himself up with an exquisite first touch at the edge of the area. The misfortune was all Bolton’s, though, when Berbatov won a header, Nani hooked the ball on and Giggs delivered a left-wing cross that Jloyd Samuel comically sidefooted into his own net. Fletcher and Valencia were sniffing around but there could be no excuses for the ex-Villa defender – this was a howler of the highest order.

Also from the top drawer was the next save from van der Sar; the Dutchman flew to his right and flicked away Fabrice Muamba’s tremendous rising shot. A world-class stop, it denied what would have been an instant leveller from Owen Coyle’s men.

If the defence were indebted to van der Sar, the reverse was true when the Dutchman was slow in coming back onto the field following the award of a Bolton corner. He wasn’t in position for the set piece but the Reds closed ranks to prevent an embarrassing equaliser.

Sir Alex was irate at referee Martin Atkinson as the teams left the field at the interval, apparently after an unpunished aerial challenge by Ricketts left Nani clutching his face.

The Reds started the second half strongly and might have swiftly doubled the lead had Berbatov not slipped inside the area after some neat play by Scholes. The Bulgarian stayed on his feet to set up Fletcher with a one-two; the Scot’s shot went inches wide.

The battles in the skies continued, and Bolton had a man off the field for treatment – Elmander injured in a clash with Vidic – when United moved further in front. Giggs was again involved in the goal, by threading a pass through to Fletcher. The latter unleashed not the fiercest of shots, but all Jaaskelainen could do was deflect the ball into Berbatov’s path and give the Bulgarian the simplest of tap-ins.

Two-nil - home and hosed? If not then, United certainly were nine minutes later when Nani tormented Ricketts with some lovely footwork on the left flank and pulled the ball back for Berbatov to stab in his second and the Reds’ third strike.

“United, top of the league,” chorused the vocal away fans, even before the flourish of a fourth goal. The creator was the same, Nani bewitching Ricketts once more before squaring it for Darron Gibson to crash a shot in off the keeper’s hands and the crossbar. The scorer had been on the pitch for less than two minutes as a substitute.

The Reds had answered Sir Alex’s call for goals, but more importantly regained top spot from rampant Chelsea, ahead of next Saturday’s showdown at Old Trafford. Bring it on.
Read more...

Bolton Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Bolton [0 - 4] Manchester United
38' [0 - 1] J. Samuel (o.g.)
69' [0 - 2] D. Berbatov
78' [0 - 3] D. Berbatov
82' [0 - 4] D. Gibson


Bolton :0-4: M.United Goals & Highlights 27.10.2010
Uploaded by black_jack8945. - Check out more sports and extreme sports videos. Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Liverpool Match Result Report

United moved back to the top of the table above Arsenal and one, significant step closer to a 19th championship and record fourth consecutive Premier League title with this well-deserved 2-1 win over fierce rivals Liverpool.

It was hearts-in-mouths time after just five minutes when Fernando Torres put the visitors in front with a free header. But United recovered when Wayne Rooney scored the rebound from his saved penalty kick six minutes later. From then on Sir Alex Ferguson’s men dominated, and the winner arrived after an hour when Ji-sung Park’s diving header sent Old Trafford into delirious celebration.

Liverpool have won the last three of these fixtures, United suffering the ignominy of a 4-1 defeat on home turf here last season. Settling that score itself may have formed a significant part of Sir Alex’s pre-match team-talk. But there was a wider focus for United than one-upmanship over a local rival. Three points would raise the prospects of a fourth straight title and the undisputed crown of being the most successful team in English football.

That fuelled the atmosphere on a bright and sunny spring day in Manchester, and whether fans were dressed in the traditional red and white or protest green and gold, there was no doubt that everyone was united behind the team.

Sir Alex opted to stick with the formation and line-up that yielded success against Milan in Europe – a 4-5-1 formation with Rooney leading the line, Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher anchoring the midfield, Park charged with hassling and harrying Steven Gerrard and co., and Antonio Valencia and Nani operating out wide.

Further back, it would be interesting to see how Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic in particular coped with the threat of Fernando Torres, who grabbed two goals in each of Liverpool’s midweek matches against Portsmouth and Lille.

And the Liverpool striker was clearly in confident mood as he put the visitors in front in the fifth minute. The Spanish won possession in midfield and started a move that went through Gerrard out to Dirk Kuyt. The Dutchman crossed and Torres was unmarked and allowed to head the ball beyond van der Sar. A nightmare start. In truth, United had yet to settle and Liverpool had enjoyed the early pressure.

Rooney, who started the game without having scored in 10 games against Liverpool, inevitably looked to lead the charge. He bustled his way past Javier Mascherano before striking just wide of Pepe Reina’s right post.

The United no.10 didn’t have to wait long to end his run without a goal. After 11 minutes Valencia surged into the box and was fouled by Mascherano, who was booked. Liverpool complained that the offence had taken place outside, but referee Howard Webb pointed to the spot. The delaying tactics that followed, including Torres trying to scuff the penalty spot, were pathetic as much as unsportsmanlike.

By the time Rooney actually took his penalty, Reina guessed the right way and saved brilliantly, but Wayne followed up the rebound and gleefully celebrated with a fist-pumping jump in front of the away fans. Tension was high inside Old Trafford and a feisty few minutes followed, including a touchline tussle between Sir Alex and Rafael Benitez.

The mood calmed somewhat and United came into the contest more. The Reds’ coaching staff were keen to get the ball out to Valencia as much as possible, and on 23 minutes the Ecuadorian showed why, beating Emiliano Insua at the byline and crossing for Park to head narrowly wide.

As the half wore on, United began to get some joy down the left, Nani’s excellent cross was narrowly missed by Rooney on 27 minutes, then seconds later the Portuguese forced a finger-tip save from Reina.

The first half ended far more tamely than it had begun, but in injury time United had a chance to add a second when Jamie Carragher was rightly booked for a lunge on Fletcher. However, Rooney’s free-kick from 25 yards was comfortably saved by Reina.

The second half started with plenty of posturing but little end product. Park had the only real chance in the opening ten minutes of the second period when he followed a jinking run with a tame left-foot shot. The game was crying out for an experienced head - someone like Paul Scholes or Ryan Giggs (both beckoned by the Stretford End), the Welshman returning after his arm break against Aston Villa last month.

But Park showed that Giggs and Scholes, the men he was selected ahead of in United’s midfield, were not required. The Korean had put two earlier headers wide, but when Rooney worked the ball out to Fletcher on the hour mark and the Scot sent in a brilliant, teasing cross, Park flung himself fearlessly toward the ball and headed United in front.

Old Trafford bloomed in spring, with a sea of green and gold scarves twirling above heads, and a roaring rendition of ‘we shall not be moved…’ reverberating around the stadium. Liverpool’s supporters stood deathly silent

Benitez rolled the dice on 73 minutes, replacing Kuyt with Alberto Aquilani, then shortly after took off Maxi Rodriguez for Ryan Babel. United looked in control with Rio Ferdinand dominating in defence, Fletcher hungry in midfield and Rooney threatening up front.

Giggs did finally make an appearance, on for the injured Nani, with ten minutes remaining. His task was to help United see out the win. He was joined by Scholes with four minutes remaining and Park deservedly earned a standing ovation for his considerable efforts.

There was time for a scare when Torres fluffed his lines 12 yards out and substitute Yossi Benayoun headed the loose ball straight into Edwin van der Sar’s hands. Five minutes of added time did little to help frayed nerves in the home end, but such an important victory was too close not to see out. And United did so, a deafening roar greeting the final whistle.
Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Liverpool Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [2 - 1] Liverpool
5' [0 - 1] F. Torres
12' [1 - 1] W. Rooney
60' [2 - 1] J. Park

0-1 Fernando Torres 5'

1-1 Wayne Rooney 12'

2-1 Park J-S 59'

Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Fulham Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [3 - 0] Fulham
46' [1 - 0] W. Rooney
84' [2 - 0] W. Rooney
89' [3 - 0] D. Berbatov





Read more...

Manchester United Vs. AC Milan After Match Interviews

Read more...

David Beckham Interview after the match at Old Trafford

Read more...

Manchester United Vs. AC Milan Match Report Review

It was oh-so-easy for United on Wednesday night, as goals either side of the break from Wayne Rooney and second-half strikes from Ji-sung Park and Darren Fletcher helped United cruise into the Champions League quarter-finals.It was oh-so-easy for United on Wednesday night, as goals either side of the break from Wayne Rooney and second-half strikes from Ji-sung Park and Darren Fletcher helped United cruise into the Champions League quarter-finals.

AC Milan, so often United’s bogey side in Europe, rarely tested Sir Alex’s men, despite coming to Old Trafford intent on scoring goals. Instead, it was Wayne Rooney who found the net twice to put the tie beyond Milan’s reach and spoil David Beckham’s homecoming. Park and Fletcher merely iced the cake.

Few had predicted the ease with which the Reds dumped the Italians out of Europe’s premier club competition. The Rossoneri arrived in Manchester determined to overturn a 3-2 first-leg deficit and employed an attacking 4-3-3 formation, with Klaas Jan Huntelaar, Marco Borriello and Ronaldinho up top.

But United, buoyed by a vocal home support, flew out of the traps. Within the first 10 minutes Rooney let fly twice from distance (once narrowly missing the left-hand post), Gary Neville fired a left-footed long-ranger over the bar and Nani forced Christian Abbiati into a smart save down by his near post.

There were scares for the Reds early on, too: Ronaldinho headed inches wide after Andrea Pirlo’s free-kick was flicked on by Nani, while Huntelaar’s control let him down badly when he drifted beyond Patrice Evra to latch onto a long ball from Thiago Silva.

After such a lively opening it was hardly surprising to see the ball in the back of the net on 13 minutes. Even less of a surprise was that the game’s opening goal arrived courtesy of Wayne Rooney’s head. The Reds striker (Milan’s chief tormentor in the first leg, remember) netted his third header of the tie and his 29th goal of the season when he nipped in front of Daniele Bonero to power home Gary Neville’s pinpoint cross.

With United 1-0 up on the night and 4-2 ahead on aggregate, Milan now needed three goals to win the tie. And yet the Rossoneri didn’t ask any further questions of the Reds’ defence for the remainder of the first half.

Sir Alex’s men were cruising. Just as he did in Milan, Ji-sung Park man-marked playmaker Pirlo, while Neville successfully curbed Ronaldinho’s creativity down the Italians’ left side. With those two largely contained and Darren Fletcher and Paul Scholes winning the battle in the centre of the park, Milan were devoid of attacking potency.

Leonardo, recognising the need for change, sacrificed defender Bonero for midfielder Clarence Seedorf at half-time. But within a minute of the restart Rooney exploited the extra space at the back and tucked the ball under Abbiati to send the Reds 2-0 up and put the tie beyond Milan’s reach.
Nani, too, must be given credit for his role in United’s second. Only fleetingly in the game during the first period, the Portuguese winger showcased his quality by curling a brilliant ball into Rooney’s path.

Huntelaar then wasted a glorious chance to pull one back when he headed over from four yards after good work down the right by Ignazio Abate. The miss was rendered even costlier on 59 minutes when Ji-sung Park, found superbly by Scholes inside the area, rifled the ball into the far corner to further extend the Reds’ lead.

Then came the moment David Beckham was introduced against his former employers. He was so often the Reds’ rescuer during his 11 seasons at the club, the man with the magic touch. But the task that faced him here – to orchestrate the most remarkable comeback in Champions League history – was even beyond his abilities.

He did receive a standing ovation from the Old Trafford faithful, however, and again on 75 minutes when he stung Edwin van der Sar’s palms with a Scholes-esque volley from 25 yards.

That was as close as Milan came to grabbing a consolation, although in truth it would have done little to ease the embarrassment Leonardo’s men will feel after being out-classed for 180 minutes by a rampant Manchester United.
Read more...

Manchester United Vs. AC Milan Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [4 - 0] AC Milan
13' [1 - 0] W. Rooney
46' [2 - 0] W. Rooney
59' [3 - 0] J. Park
88' [4 - 0] D. Fletcher







Read more...

Wolverhampton Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report

Paul Scholes reached a century of Premier League goals and fired United to the top of the table as the Reds battled to a 1-0 victory over Wolves at Molineux.

Shorn of the services of the injured Wayne Rooney, Sir Alex’s men struggled to hit top gear against a Wolves side fighting for their top flight status. But United have a fourth consecutive title to play for and the Reds knew a victory was a must and Scholes ensured United left with exactly that when he slotted home with 18 minutes remaining on the clock.

United paid the price for Rooney’s midweek exertions for England as the striker was forced to sit out the visit to Molineux and rest his injured knee. The Reds were, however, boosted by the return from suspension of Nani and from injury of Rio Ferdinand who partnered Nemanja Vidic for the first time since October. Dimitar Berbatov took up the lone-striking role with Nani and Antonio Valencia on hand to offer support down the wings. Wolves, meanwhile, who were fined £25,000 for fielding a weakened side at Old Trafford in December, kept an unchanged side for the fourth straight match.

The game got off to a scrappy start with Wolves focused on keeping things tight and United taking time to adjust to life without their main front man. Seven minutes after Valencia had fired a powerful drive just wide of the near post, the Reds had a decent shout for a spot-kick on 15 minutes, but referee Peter Walton saw nothing wrong with Karl Henry holding back Darron Gibson as he attempted to make the most of Nani’s blocked free-kick which had dropped into his path. In the end, the Irish midfielder prodded the ball wide under pressure from Henry.

Gibson had another sight of goal soon after being picked out by Berbatov’s right-wing cross following a good break forward. But his volleyed effort was into the ground which took the sting out of it and allowed Marcus Hahnemann to claim easily.

Rooney’s energy and endeavour were conspicuous by their absence as United struggled to find their rhythm throughout the opening period. There were, however, spurts of good play and Sir Alex’s men did find themselves in decent positions at times, but the final ball was always lacking. Not long after Michael Carrick had fired a weak shot at Hahnemann from the edge of the area after being well found by Patrice Evra, Valencia’s low driven cross was just too far ahead of Nani, while Gibson was unable to do anything with it at the far post.

Having worked hard to made things difficult for United, Wolves went close to taking the lead in quick succession thanks to some impressive wing play from Matt Jarvis. On 32 minutes he found former Red David Jones just inside the box. He took aim at van der Sar, but Carrick’s brilliant last-ditch tackle took the power out of the shot ensuring an easy catch for the Dutchman. Four minutes later the veteran goalkeeper breathed a huge sigh of relief when the unmarked Stephen Ward rose to meet Jarvis’ left-wing cross, but he headed straight at van der Sar from six yards out as the goal lay gaping.

After a somewhat lacklustre first period, the Reds, who introduced Gary Neville for the injured Wes Brown, set about the task in hand with renewed vigour and quality after the restart. Just two minutes in, Berbatov turned and played an inch-perfect pass into Valencia who returned the favour as the Bulgarian arrived in the area, but his shot was well blocked. Five minutes later United attacked from the other wing with Gibson cleverly finding Evra as he burst into the box, but Kevin Foley got back to deflect the ball out for a corner.

Proceedings began to hot up midway through the second half with Peter Walton dishing out three yellow cards – one for United and two for Wolves – in the space of five minutes. During the same period, Mame Biram Diuof entered the fray in place of Gibson as Sir Alex looked to add some much-needed energy to United’s attack.

And it wasn’t long before United were reaping the benefits of having an extra outlet in attack, but rather than the new kid on the new block it was United’s wily old master, Paul Scholes, who made the vital breakthrough on 72 minutes.

Valencia slipped a pass into Nani who had temporarily swapped sides and his low cross was only half-cleared by Jody Craddock allowing Scholes to pick up possession inside the area. He took one touch before firing a low drive past Hahnemann for his 100th Premier League goal. It was Scholes at his very best – bursting into the box and keeping his cool to find the finish.

Diouf had the chance to put the game beyond the home side six minutes later, but he misjudged Neville’s lovely curling cross despite being unmarked and within six yards of goal and headed well over. He had another chance to make his mark on 83 minutes when Valencia’s cross landed at his feet, but having expected the defender in front of him to clear his lines Diouf was unable to make the most of the opportunity.

As the game entered four minutes of injury-time, Wolves piled forward and were hugely unlucky not to snatch a point - only Sam Vokes will know how he failed to hit target after Ronald Zubar’s shot had bobbled into his path right in front of goal and under no pressure.

United fans everywhere breathed a huge sigh relief as the Reds held out for what could turn out to be a vital victory.
Read more...

Wolverhampton Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Wolverhampton W. [0 - 1] Manchester United
73' [0 - 1] P. Scholes

Read more...

Aston Villa Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report

United claimed the first silverware of the new decade thanks to goals in each half from cup final specialist Michael Owen and the super substitute who replaced him – Wayne Rooney.

The latter’s 28th strike of the season edged an entertaining Carling Cup final in favour of the Reds, who therefore retained a cup for the first time in the club’s history. The prospects of this had looked grim after just five minutes when Nemanja Vidic pulled down Gabriel Agbonlahor – but avoided a red card – and James Milner put Aston Villa 1-0 up from the penalty spot.

But Owen’s latest goal in a domestic showpiece – he netted for a certain former club in the 2001 FA Cup and 2003 League Cup finals – ensured there was parity for a large portion of the match until Rooney triumphantly headed home 16 minutes from time.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s surprise omission of Rooney from his starting XI was one of six differences to the side which kicked off against Man City in the scintillating semi win. Edwin van der Sar, Paul Scholes, the banned Nani and the injured Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs were also out; in came Tomasz Kuszczak, Nemanja Vidic, Antonio Valencia, Ji-sung Park and the front pair of Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen.

One of the mainstays, and United skipper for the day, Patrice Evra had to defend acrobatically inside the first minute to repel a free-kick from Ashley Young on Villa’s left flank. The resulting corner was also dealt with but Martin O’Neill’s men had posted an early warning, one which the Reds failed to heed.

Moments later, Gabriel Agbonlahor broke beyond the backline and when Nemanja Vidic hauled him down, there were no arguments as referee Phil Dowd pointed to the spot.

The only debate would have been over Vidic’s right to stay on the field – he did, and had to look on in agony as James Milner punished his misdemeanour with a well-struck penalty low to Kuszczak’s left. Villa 1 United 0, after just five minutes.

The Serbian wasn’t even booked but opposite number James Collins did see yellow when he sent Owen sprawling at the other end, unfortunately outside the box.

Carrick wasted the opportunity from the free-kick but his namesake Owen soon meted out his own justice when he swept home the equaliser. Berbatov mugged dawdling Richard Dunne and when the former Manchester City defender caught up with the Bulgarian, he only succeeded in freeing the ball up for Owen to beat Brad Friedel.

Still inside a busy first 20 minutes, Kuszczak denied Milner’s left-foot shot with a fine save and Stewart Downing followed Collins into the book for a foul on Evra. Carrick, however, inexplicably escaped a caution when he brought down Heskey.

Kuszczak made his second save when Heskey turned well inside the box following a setpiece but it was a comfortable collection for the Pole playing his first game since early January.

Ironic cheers from the Villa fans greeted United’s first booking, for Evra’s trip on Ashley Young, but they were not so fond of the first substitution – Rooney on for hamstring victim Owen, a few minutes before the break.

Villa were still adjusting to the change when Park almost put the Reds 2-1 up. The Korean’s well-struck shot came back off the post and was cleared by Cuellar, this after Valencia skipped past the grounded Stephen Warnock and pulled the ball back.

That closing attack and the introduction of Rooney augured well for the second half. Indeed, Wayne was the first player to try his luck after the break but sliced wide from outside the area after a promising push through the middle by Carrick.

The midfielder did much better and drew a brilliant parry from Friedel at the end of a flowing United move involving Park and the back-heeling Berbatov. On the counter-attack, Agbonlahor ran at Vidic but whipped his shot well past the far post.

Such was the pattern of the second period; the Reds seeing more of the ball and patiently probing, and Villa waiting to utilise the electric pace of Young and Agbonlahor against Evra on a card and Neville on as a substitute for Rafael.

Vidic became the second United defender to be booked when he clattered Agbonlahor from behind – censure that was long overdue in the view of Villa fans and neutrals.

The same trio that undid West Ham in midweek combined again to upset another team of a claret and blue persuasion in the 74th minute. Berbatov sublimely flicked a ball on to Valencia and when the Ecuadorian dug out a cross under pressure on the right, Rooney rose to send a header arcing past Friedel’s hand into the top right-hand corner and trigger scenes of ecstasy among the United fans and coaching staff alike.

The goal was as brave as it was brilliant with Collins looming large in Rooney’s face; there was no such opposition when Valencia found Wayne again moments later but Friedel’s right-hand post prevented the free header causing further damage to Villa.

So the game remained far from over, and that point was underlined when Kuszczak had to push the ball over his bar when a right-wing cross was directed goalwards. But United remained the more likely to score and when Valencia surged forward in injury time, he deserved more than to strike the side netting.

A third goal wasn’t required though, and for once in normal time at the new Wembley, United were victorious. Cue joyous celebrations as Evra collected the 26th major trophy of Sir Alex’s amazing 23-year reign.
Read more...

Aston Villa Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Aston Villa [1 - 2] Manchester United
5' [1 - 0] J. Milner (pen.)
13' [1 - 1] M. Owen
74' [1 - 2] W. Rooney

lge cup final
by FootballSoccerHighlights

Celebration
Read more...

Manchester United Vs. West Ham United Match Report Result

Three sublimely-crafted goals - two from Wayne Rooney, one from Michael Owen - got United back to winning ways and moved the champions to within a point of Premier League leaders Chelsea.

West Ham were clinically put to the sword as two devastating team moves yielded Rooney headers either side of the interval, before arch-poacher Owen plundered a fine third goal within three minutes of his introduction as a late substitute.

After last Saturday's surprisingly meek surrender at Goodison Park, and with this Sunday's Carling Cup final against Aston Villa on the horizon, Sir Alex Ferguson sprang several selection surprises to face a Hammers side catapulted - for now - out of their relegation worries by back-to-back victories.

In came Ben Foster, Darron Gibson and Anderson, while Nemanja Vidic made a welcome return to the defence for his first start of 2010. Rio Ferdinand, available after his four-match suspension, was conspicuous by his absence, leaving Wes Brown to partner the Serbian in the centre of defence.

A curious first half served up a cocktail of mistakes and brilliance. While the early sparring couldn't deliver a telling blow for either side, it did claim Anderson, who succumbed to a knee injury inside the first 15 minutes. Around the 20 minute mark, however, came a flurry of chances at either end.

Only a superb challenge from James Tomkins halted a marauding run from Rooney, and prompted a West Ham attack which ended with Valon Behrami dragging a shot past Foster's far post. Moments later, the United stopper survived a jittery moment as Alessandro Diamanti's deflected effort looped high before dipping just under the crossbar. Foster was comfortably in control of the situation, but nevertheless would have held his breath as he padded the ball down on his own goal-line before collecting it.

At the other end, Dimitar Berbatov was denied a clear shot by a saving challenge from Matthew Upson, and then a sprawling save from Green, who managed to contort almost in slow-motion to save the Bulgarian's improvised diversion of an errant Darron Gibson shot.

United's pressure steadily grew as Gibson thrice tested Green in the space of four minutes. The Irishman's first and third long-range efforts were comfortably fielded, but his second drew a superb low save from the Hammers' goalkeeper, who just managed to brush the ball past the post.

Parity was creaking, however, and gave in on 38 minutes as United's forward four combined in devastating fashion. Park, on for Anderson, threaded a neat ball through to Berbatov, who cantered infield before chipping a measured pass to Valencia on the right-hand side of the penalty area. The Ecuadorian thudded in a stunning first-time cross with his instep which begged Rooney to convert. In the form of his life, the Reds' top scorer emphatically obliged with a thumping header.

It was a quite stunning team goal which ripped the Hammers to shreds through its simplicity. Two minutes later, another similarly direct effort almost doubled the lead. Berbatov touched on for Rooney, who just managed to stay level before touching the ball past Upson and lashing a fabulous volley onto the roof of Green's net.

Half-time provided timely respite for the visitors, but United sought to end the contest within seconds of the restart. Straight from the centre the ball was ferried to Valencia, who swapped passes with Rooney before crossing low and deep into the box. Park took a first time swing at it, only for his effort to thud off the underside of the crossbar. As it rebounded to Park he was felled by Behrami, by referee Alan Wiley waved away claims for a penalty.

A second goal soon arrived, however, and three of the quartet who had combined so well for the opener were at it again. Berbatov's sublime threaded pass released Valencia down the right, and he sped past marker Jonathan Spector before standing up a superb cross. Rooney, who had peeled away from Tomkins, thumped another header past Green, despite the goalkeeper's valiant attempt to save.

Two was almost three for United and Rooney as he beat Green in a race to a long, loose forward ball on the Stretford End byline. The United striker outmuscled his international colleague, turned, and curled a shot towards the unguarded goal, only for Faubert to comfortably clear the danger.

West Ham's beleaguered defenders would have been pleased to see the back of Rooney and Berbatov, who had one superb surging run halted by Faubert's crude block, when they were replaced by Owen and Diouf for the final 11 minutes, but there would be no respite.

Out on the left flank, Owen showed neat skill to slip the ball to Gibson before trotting infield. Once there, he accepted a superb ball from the flawless Scholes and, having been played onside by Upson, steered in an unerring finish via Green's left-hand post.

Scholes could have capped a superb display with a fittingly sublime goal four minutes from time but, after skipping past two challenges, the veteran midfielder shot high into the Stretford End, provoking much mirth from a home contingent who had been cooing over his display all night long.and a timely reminder to those who most covet the Premier League title that the champions' grip on the trophy is not slipping yet constitutes a satisfactory evening. The quest for four in a row can continue at Molineux next month. For now, attentions switch to Wembley, and the defence of another title: the Carling Cup.
Read more...

Manchester United Vs. West Ham United Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [3 - 0] West Ham United
38' [1 - 0] W. Rooney
55' [2 - 0] W. Rooney
80' [3 - 0] M. Owen

Read more...

Everton Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report

The unpredictability of this season’s title race knows no bounds as a tired-looking United went down 3-1 to Everton – the Merseysiders’ second big scalp in ten days after defeating Chelsea at Goodison Park.

The Reds went in front after 16 minutes through Dimitar Berbatov, but Everton equalised three minutes later with a strike from Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, and that was the game's pivotal moment. United struggled to control possession and didn’t work Tim Howard enough. Substitute Dan Gosling struck midway through the second half and, as Sir Alex Ferguson’s men chased a late equaliser, another substitute Jack Rodwell hit a third.

United didn't look sturdy enough in defence, even though Nemanja Vidic was named in the squad, albeit only making the bench as he waits for his first appearance in 2010. The Serbian’s strength and no-nonsense defending was not called upon and with the Reds still shorn of Rio Ferdinand, serving the final instalment of a four-match ban, Sir Alex favoured Wes Brown and Jonny Evans at centre-half to deal with Louis Saha.

The Frenchman has scored 15 goals this season, including two against Chelsea when Everton sprung a surprise on Carlo Ancelotti’s men to win 2-1. David Moyes’ side have taken four points from the Blues this term. They started this game second in the form table. United top those standings and Everton’s solitary win in the last 29 league games with the Reds looked like an ominous statistic. The absence of key pair, Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini, due to injury wouldn’t have eased nerves either. But those figures provide no solace for United now.

The Reds went with a 4-4-2 formation, including Berbatov up front with Wayne Rooney. With Nani suspended and Ryan Giggs out due to a fractured arm, Antonio Valencia and Ji-sung Park manned the wings, with Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick in central midfield. Gary Neville’s inclusion meant that both he and brother Phil were captains for the day. Such is the Nevilles’ competitive nature, they didn’t speak or even look at each other in the tunnel before kick-off.

The first opening was carved by United after 11 minutes, a neatly worked move down a right flank that was profitable in the first half, and ended with Fletcher striking left-footed over the bar. Two minutes later Everton went even closer when Saha’s long-range effort forced a good low save from Edwin van der Sar. United’s early joy down the right would soon bear fruit. Rooney sprayed a pass out to Valencia and Sylvain Distin failed to clear the Ecuadorian’s low cross. Berbatov’s first touch six yards out was sublime, his second was ruthless, spectacularly smashing the ball in off the bar to make it 1-0.

However, the Reds weren't allowed to settle into a lead as Everton drew level on 19 minutes. Saha won the aerial battle with Evans, knocking the ball down to Russian winger Bilyaletdinov, who cleverly used Wes Brown to conceal a wicked left-foot shot that left van der Sar rooted to the spot. Everton had their tails up, even if former idol Rooney was next to go close for United on 26 minutes. A clever one-two with Berbatov sent him clear and he rounded Tim Howard but his touch wasn’t as sharp as he’d have liked and Phil Neville was able to nick the ball off his toes.

United survived a scare seven minutes before the break when Landon Donovan failed to connect with the ball from six yards. As half-time approached, Sir Alex will have been preparing to demand his players take more control of the ball, particularly in central midfield areas where Everton had started to dictate play. The home side began the second half in much the same fashion, although a fizzing 20-yard drive from Fletcher whistled past the post and Berbatov sent a header narrowly wide as the Reds’ attacks gained purpose.

The Bulgarian forward was replaced after 66 minutes by Paul Scholes, Park off for Gabriel Obertan, and the Reds reverted to 4-5-1 with Rooney up front on his own and three men to win back territory in the middle of the pitch. It wasn’t effective enough and Everton looked like being the team that would score the game’s next goal. So it proved. Steven Pienaar found space on the left flank and fired a cross into the box, where substitute Dan Gosling scuffed the ball home on 76 minutes.

Four minutes later and with United chasing the game, Sir Alex made his third and final change – a last throw of the dice – replacing Valencia with Michael Owen. It was to no avail. Rooney was agonisingly close with a free-kick 25 yards out. His curling effort clipped Distin’s head to push the ball narrowly wide. It summed up Rooney’s and United’s afternoon. Close, but not quite good enough. To rub salt in the wounds, Rodwell emerged from the bench and raced beyond a leggy midfield and defence to fire the third. Another twist, then, but this time not in United’s favour. It's a sixth defeat in the league, the Reds can ill-afford any more.
Read more...

Everton Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Everton [3 - 1] Manchester United
16' [0 - 1] D. Berbatov
19' [1 - 1] D. Bilyaletdinov
76' [2 - 1] D. Gosling
90' [3 - 1] J. Rodwell

Read more...

AC Milan Vs. Manchester Untied Match Report

United recovered from a nightmare start to romp to an impressive - and potentially decisive - away victory against AC Milan in the Champions League second round, first leg.

Ronaldinho put the Rossoneri ahead inside three minutes and the hosts spurned several opportunities to further their advantage before Paul Scholes' fortunate leveller 10 minutes before half-time. The Reds dominated midfield after the break, however, and two headers from Wayne Rooney gave Sir Alex Ferguson's side two more priceless away goals.

Clarence Seedorf impishly back-heeled the hosts back into the tie and Michael Carrick was dismissed for a second booking as Milan finished strongly, but United's first ever victory at the San Siro gives the Reds a vital lead ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.

Much of the pre-match fanfare centred around David Beckham's first clash with United since leaving Old Trafford in 2003. In truth, it was Ronaldinho, the man unsuccessfully earmarked to replace Beckham, who had the greater influence for Leonardo's side.

United could hardly have made a worse start. Just over two minutes had passed when Patrice Evra's attempt to clear Beckham's free-kick only went as far as Ronaldinho, and the Brazilian's right-footed volley took a telling deflection off Carrick and flew past the committed Edwin van der Sar.

The Reds were rocked, while Milan were galvanised into dominance. Ronaldinho, clearly relishing the occasion, drew a smart stop from van der Sar with another close-range effort as the hosts aimed to forge a greater advantage.

An errant long-distance shot from Scholes marked United's first attempt on goal, and heralded a belated entry to the action for the visitors.

Nani became an increasingly influential figure as the Reds warmed to the task and increasingly controlled midfield.

There was always the danger of Ronaldinho, however, who took advantage of a lax piece of play from Scholes to nab possession and race goalwards. The Brazilian's repeated stepovers took him past Rio Ferdinand, but his subsequent tumble on the edge of the area was deemed to be simulation rather than a foul by the United skipper.

That episode was symptomatic of a worrying affliction throughout United's display, as the Reds' usually assured possession play went AWOL. Milan spurned several opportunities without playing any telling role in their creation, most notably when Klaas-Jan Huntelaar drilled narrowly wide after Jonny Evans' panicked clearance.

Sir Alex Ferguson was particularly irritated by Evans' error, and made his ire known soon afterwards. Fortunately, it came as the young Northern Irishman was jogging back to his position after United had drawn level.

A wonderful passing move featuring Michael Carrick, Nani, Ji-sung Park and Scholes culminated in Darren Fletcher drilling in a superb low cross from the right wing. Scholes raced into the box and attempted to batter home the volley, but instead it struck his standing leg and spun past Dida via the inside of the post. Good fortune indeed in its execution and timing, coming after a string of missed chances for the hosts.

While Milan were stunned to be pegged back, Ronaldinho took parity as a personal affront against his own superb efforts, and he quickly drew another smart stop from van der Sar from 25 yards after brilliantly fashioning space for himself.

Deserved or not, United went into the interval level. Little over a minute after the restart, Darren Fletcher headed Nani's cross wide from a decent position and passed up the chance to give the Reds an unlikely lead. The game's open nature continued and, just two minutes later, Alexandre Pato headed wastefully over after finding space between Evans and Evra.

With Beckham, Ronaldinho and Andrea Pirlo on the field, Milan always carried menace from set-pieces. The latter forced van der Sar into a superb one-handed stop with a 35-yard piledriver which was bound for the Dutchman's top corner as Milan continued to seek an advantage.

Not that United were happy to sit on a score draw, however. Although Ronaldinho again forced a plunging save from van der Sar, Rooney had three efforts in the space of 10 minutes - twice off-target from distance, once drawing a comfortable low stop from Dida.

Antonio Valencia was introduced shortly after Rooney's third effort, and he needed just two minutes to provide United's telling goal. The Ecuadorian picked the ball up on the right flank, took a touch to go past Giuseppe Favalli and stood up a fine cross to the back post, where Rooney outjumped Daniele Bonera to send a superb header drifting into the far top corner.

The travelling support, tucked away high up in the stand behind the goal, went wild. Milan were shattered, and United dominated possession from thereon. Valencia, Park and Fletcher tormented the hosts in support of Rooney, who drilled fractionally wide from 20 yards.

He didn't have to wait long for his second, however, and it arrived with 17 minutes remaining. Fletcher picked up Rooney's knock down, some 35 yards from goal and was criminally given as much time as he liked to advance and curl in a teasing delivery behind Alessandro Nesta and in a perfect area to nod in his second.

Valencia continued to torment Favalli, drilling in one particularly dangerous cross which just evaded Rooney, while the England striker was narrowly denied a hat-trick as his free-kick curled just past Dida's post. But, just when Milan seemed buried, back they roared, with Ronaldinho again instrumental.

The Brazilian crept into the United area and, despite a cluster of defenders around him, curled in a delightful cross for substitute Seedorf to beautifully back-heel beyond van der Sar.

With an unlikely route back into the tie secured, the hosts roared back in the final few minutes. Pippo Inzaghi lashed over, Thiago Silva headed wastefully off-target and Carrick's superb evening was spoiled when he picked up a second yellow card for allegedly kicking the ball away in injury-time.

Nevertheless, United held on to register a first ever victory in the San Siro, set a new European record of 16 away games without defeat and, most crucially, establish a vital advantage ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford in three weeks' time.
Read more...

AC Milan Vs. Manchester Untied Highlights Video Clips

AC Milan [2 - 3] Manchester United
3' [1 - 0] Ronaldinho
36' [1 - 1] P. Scholes
66' [1 - 2] W. Rooney
74' [1 - 3] W. Rooney
85' [2 - 3] C. Seedorf

1-0 Ronaldinho 3'

1-1 Scholes 36'

1-2 Rooney 66'

1-3 Rooney 74'

2-3 Seedorf 85'
Read more...

Aston Villa Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report

Ten-man United outplayed Aston Villa for much of Wednesday’s game at Villa Park, but Sir Alex’s men, shorn of Nani’s attacking impetus for 60 minutes after the winger was sent off for a studs-up challenge, struggled to assert their dominance and had to settle for a point.

But the 1-1 draw – achieved courtesy of a James Collins own goal after Carlos Cuellar had put the home side in front – takes the Reds to within a point of Chelsea after the Blues lost 2-1 at Goodison Park courtesy of a Louis Saha double.

After that result at Everton, the Reds' draw at Villa may look like an opportunity lost: after all, a win would have sent United top of the league. But to come away from Villa Park with a point having played an hour with 10 men is no mean feat.

On a cold Birmingham night, the boss sent out a strong side to take on an Aston Villa team that had not lost in any competition since 2009. There was still no Nemanja Vidic (injured) or Rio Ferdinand (suspended) at the back, but in Wes Brown and Jonny Evans the manager has a second-choice centre-back pairing that would walk into most other top-flight starting XIs.

In midfield, Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes started together for the third time in four games, while Ryan Giggs and Nani provided the width. The Portuguese winger was involved early on and his 25-yard free-kick drew a smart save from Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel – how many times have you heard those words over the years? – after just eight minutes. Giggs saw an effort from the edge of the box deflected over the bar shortly afterwards before Villa took the lead with their first effort on target on 19 minutes.

Stewart Downing’s right-wing cross flashed across the area to the back post, where Rafael half cleared. The ball dropped to Spanish defender Carlos Cuellar, whose looping, 16-yard header floated over Edwin van der Sar and into the far corner.

United, who had not lost at Villa Park in the league since 1995, took just four minutes to restore parity. Again it was thanks to the generosity of the Reds’ opponents. Against Portsmouth last Saturday, Sir Alex’s men benefitted from two own goals – this time there was just the one, Ryan Giggs’ volleyed cross turned into his own net by former West Ham defender James Collins.

Nani had done well in the build-up, picking out Giggs beyond the far post, but it was his last meaningful contribution. He was sent off on 29 minutes by referee Peter Walton for a tackle that was admittedly reckless – the winger lunged in on Petrov with his studs showing – but arguably not one that constituted “serious foul play”.

Although robbed of one of United’s most potent attacking forces, the Reds enjoyed a brief spell of pressure and only another good stop from Friedel kept the score at 1-1. At the other end, Villa struggled to press home their numerical advantage; van der Sar hardly had a touch for the rest of the half.

Paul Scholes was sacrificed at the break for Antonio Valencia, as United reverted to four in midfield. It was an unexpected move from the boss – certainly, not many other managers would have made such an attacking change with their team reduced to 10 men. But Valencia brought youth and fresh legs to the table… and on 53 minutes he almost sent the Reds ahead when Giggs crossed early from the left. Arriving at the back post, the Ecuadorian took one touch before blasting the ball just over the bar.

The home side, meanwhile, looked devoid of ideas in the final third. After Cuellar’s goal, it took until the 58th minute for van der Sar to be called into action again. The Dutchman saved well down to his left after James Milner linked well with Gabriel Agbonlahor. Ten-man United were doing much more than merely hang on: Valencia found space on the right before firing his cross straight at Friedel, Rooney blazed wide with his left foot from a tight angle and then both players combined to almost slice a path through the Villa defence with just over 20 minutes remaining.

By then Martin O’Neill had introduced John Carew and Steve Sidwell and one of Sidwell’s first contributions was to clatter into Ryan Giggs. The Welshman injured his right wrist in the collision and was replaced by Dimitar Berbatov on 75 minutes. Rooney, who took on Giggs’ wing role and the captaincy duties, forced Friedel into another top stop when he wriggled free of his marker and fired towards the top corner. It was the last time United truly threatened the Villa goal.

At the other end, Villa fans saw a half chance go begging in injury time when Richard Dunne almost connected with a wide free-kick. But a Villa winner would have been harsh on United – indeed, the home team barely deserved a point after failing miserably to capitalise on Nani’s sending off.
Read more...

Aston Villa Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips

Aston Villa [1 - 1] Manchester United
19' [1 - 0] C. Cuellar
23' [1 - 1] J. Collins (o.g.)

Read more...

David Beckham Interview ahead Manchester United Vs. AC Milan Champion Leauge Game

Ahead of United's Champions League last 16 tie with AC Milan, Inside United travelled to Italy to catch up with returning Red David Beckham, who can't wait to come back to Old Trafford...

You said you almost cried when you heard the draw…
It was just an unbelievable feeling to know I’d be going back, which is why I felt really emotional when the draw was made. I met so many amazing people during my time there on and off the pitch that I’m very much looking forward to seeing everyone again. It’s the biggest club in the world and it’s one you always want to be a part of.

Leaving United was clearly very difficult…
Yes, definitely. Coming to terms with not being a United player was very hard and certainly the toughest thing I’ve ever had to deal with. When you’re a Manchester United player and a Manchester United fan you never want to play for any other club.

How will Milan approach the tie? Has Leonardo asked you for any inside knowledge?
We will approach it like any other game, we respect United but we do not fear them. It’s been so long since I’ve been at United that so much has changed – there wouldn’t be much I could help with on that side.

Do you think the games will be harder to prepare for because of your United connection?
Yes, I think they will, simply because I’ve never come up against them or haven’t played at Old Trafford for seven years. It’s not something that you can prepare for. I don’t usually get nervous, but I think there will be a few butterflies before kick-off at How will you feel if you score against United, or even score the goal that knocks us out - will you celebrate?
Sometimes emotion can get the better of you when you score, but I don’t think I would celebrate as I respect the fans and the club.

How does Milan compare to United and what differences have you noticed between the Premier League and Serie A?
They’re two fantastic clubs who have great history and tradition. The two leagues are quite similar, actually. Italian players are renowned for their great ability, but they also have a real toughness about them and a will to win. The Premier League was always an amazing league to play in. I’ve obviously been out of it for seven years and during that time I think the level has been raised even higher than it was when I was at United. I think that’s happened to every league in a way – they all move on and get better.

Which United game from your career would you relive and why?
[Pauses] Wow, there are so many. The 1998/99 season will always stick out as being an unbelievable year. There were so many memorable games throughout that campaign. We were involved in some amazing matches and we scored so many great goals, many of them last minute. But that is just Manchester United – it doesn’t matter which players are involved, you always believe you can win. You might be 2-0 down with a few minutes to go, but the players and the manager never stop believing. That’s just the way the club is.

You said you would love to have stayed here for your whole career. Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville have all done that – how would you sum up the service they’ve given?
It’s been amazing. For them to still be playing at the highest level is incredible. It’s testament to them and the manager that they’re still producing great performances. The success they’ve had is unbelievable and I’m really happy for them.

Will Giggsy go down as United’s best ever servant?
Ryan deserves all the accolades he is getting at the moment. He has been amazing for Manchester United and he is loved by everyone there. It was an honour to play with him.

How do you rate the current side? They’ve been written off a few times this season, and many pundits feel Cristiano Ronaldo hasn’t been replaced…
When Ronaldo left, I think there was always going to be people who would write United off. It’s happened so many times over the years, but they always come back fighting and the manager has always got an answer for the critics. The club have still got some great players and I see no reason why they can’t carry on being successful.

Finally, can you ever see yourself back at United in some capacity?
I’ll certainly be back as a fan. I’ve still got season tickets and I’ll always keep them because I love to watch every game where possible and I’d love to take my sons one day. United will always be such a special place to me, so we’ll just have to see what the future holds.
Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Portsmouth Result Report

United moved back to the top of the Premier League with an emphatic victory over beleaguered Portsmouth at Old Trafford.

Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Carrick struck for the Reds, while own-goals from Pompey's Anthony Vanden Borre and Marc Wilson piled more misery on the Premier League's basement side and assured the champions of a healthy goal difference boost.

Although Avram Grant's side threatened briefly during the first half, United mustered a five-goal spell in under 30 minutes either side of the interval to swat aside any notion of the visitors springing an almighty upset.

Playing on the 52nd anniversary of Munich, the match was preceded by an immaculately observed minute's silence. Then, from the first whistle, the two teams both firmly encamped in Portsmouth's half for the opening 10 minutes.

Although the visitors' pragmatic ploy created a possession monopoly for United, time and again a Pompey body would block a shot or the Reds' final ball would fail to pierce the massed ranks of defensive bodies, and it took 12 minutes for any real brush with an advantage. A short corner reached Gary Neville, and the skipper's inch-perfect cross was headed fractionally past the far upright by Jonny Evans, with David James motionless.

That scare sparked the visitors into a modicum of attacking activity, however. Former United youth striker Danny Webber broke away and slipped a pass to Belgian right-back Vanden Borre, whose powerful shot was beaten away by Edwin van der Sar. From the resulting corner, the Dutchman was called into another smart stop by Nadir Belhadj's stinging low shot.

Pompey's approach remained largely cautious, with Richard Hughes superbly screening his defence. When required, the midfielder even mucked in deep inside his own box, making one vital block after a flowing United move had culminated in Rooney bursting into the area.

With United committed to ceaseless attack, a Pompey breakaway nearly brought the opener. The visitors burst through with four attackers to three United defenders, one of whom, Evans, sprinted back behind Edwin van der Sar and superbly cleared Belhadj's shot off the line.

In the same passage of play, United somehow failed to break the deadlock when Neville burst into the Pompey box and pulled back for Berbatov, who fired wide from just six yards out. The disbelief which seized the Bulgarian's face was shared by almost all inside Old Trafford.

With five minutes of the half remaining, however, the goal finally came. Another short corner was shifted to Darren Fletcher, and his perfect cross gave Rooney the simple task of nodding home from the six-yard line.

The goal liberated the Reds from any nerves and frustration which were beginning to appear, and the scoreline was doubled on the stroke of half-time. Nani, who continued his fine recent form despite being shifted over to the left wing, teased Vanden Borre and drilled in a cross which hit the Belgian, deflected towards goal and trickled over the line to embarrass James.

Half-time brought temporary respite for Pompey, but United's determination to go top of the table in style continued unabated as the second period began. Michael Carrick added a third goal when the visitors failed to clear their lines, and the midfielder's 25-yard effort cracked in off the underside of the crossbar, albeit via a sizeable deflection off Hughes.

Three very soon became four when Berbatov collected the ball inside the visitors' area, fought off challenges and meandered back outside the box, before turning and unleashing a superb shot inside James' far post. The goal was the Bulgarian's final contribution before being replaced by Mame Biram Diouf.

The change constituted one third of a triple substitution, with Rooney and Fletcher making way for Michael Owen and Darron Gibson, with the latter soon testing out James' handling abilities with a rasping 30-yard effort.

A fifth goal duly arrived on 69 minutes, and once again a Pompey defender made the telling touch. Patrice Evra swung in a perfectly-flighted cross which Nani could only glance on, and Wilson emphatically hammered a finish high into his own goal.

Despite the evident dejection in the Pompey ranks, United mercilessly continued to press for more goals. Diouf spurned the clearest opening, when he did well to reach Owen's through-ball and make space for the shot, but fired wastefully over the bar.

Regardless, a point clear and three goals ahead of Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea represents a highly satisfactory afternoon's work, and the free-scoring champions are clicking ominously into gear as the season enters its nitty-gritty period.
Read more...

Manchester United Vs. Portsmouth Highlights Video Clips

Manchester United [5 - 0] Portsmouth
40' [1 - 0] W. Rooney
45' [2 - 0] A.V. Borre (o.g.)
59' [3 - 0] R. Hughes (o.g.)
62' [4 - 0] D. Berbatov
69' [5 - 0] M. Wilson (o.g.)

Read more...