For those who criticise the Champions League group stages, this fabulous affair was evidence of the sort of entertainment it can provide.
United went behind to an early Phil Jones own goal but battled back valiantly with goals from Dimitar Berbatov, spearheading the team in Wayne Rooney's absence, and Darren Fletcher. The Portuguese visitors responded swiftly through Pablo Aimar to keep their unbeaten run this season intact and a Nani cross that deflected behind in injury time proved the final throw of the dice.
As it stands, United are second in Group C - level on points with Benfica but crucially behind Tuesday's opponents on the head-to-head format - with Jorge Jesus' outfit due to play Otelul Galati in the final round. Basel held out for a 3-2 victory in Romania and they sit only a point behind last season's runners-up in the table.
The Reds got off to a nightmare start when an incisive move down the right in the third minute saw Maxi Pereira feed Nicolas Gaitan and the winger's cross was shinned into his own net by Jones, giving David De Gea no chance.
Gradually, Sir Alex's side responded, largely through Nani's adventurous dribbling, with Artur brought into action by the Portugal international's free-kick and a shot from Ashley Young. The visitors continued to try and disrupt the Reds' flow but the breakthrough came on the half-hour mark. Young worked a free-kick short to Patrice Evra who helped it on to Nani, always likely to be the source of any inspiration. The wide man's left-wing cross was perfect for Berbatov to guide a splendid header wide of Artur and into the net for the equaliser.
The goal sparked a frantic spell, with Young firing a one-on-one opportunity against Artur's legs after linking well with Berbatov and Aimar bringing a smart stop out of De Gea seconds later. Although Berbatov later tapped the ball into the net, Evra had long since been flagged offside and Artur was yellow-carded for his attempts to get the Bulgarian booked.
Clearly gaining in influence since his leveller, Berbatov had a drive deflected over by Ezequiel Garay's desperate block following some neat work by Young as the sides went into the break all-square, allowing the fans to catch their breath.
The second half was just as exciting and began with Young's side-foot shot being blocked at close range following some fine work by Nani. Fabio spurned a glorious chance on 54 minutes when Jones' strong pressing led to him being in the clear with only Artur to beat but the keeper saved the attempted chip.
Undeterred, the Reds kept knocking on the door and, soon after Benfica lost Luisao to injury, Fletcher edged his team in front. Evra's superb ball into the box allowed the Scot to find the net, at the second time of asking after Artur did superbly to block his initial shot. Old Trafford's joy was short-lived, however, as De Gea's misplaced kick-out gifted possession to the Portuguese side and Bruno Cesar's cross hit Rio Ferdinand and fell kindly for Aimar, who gratefully smashed home from close range.
Berbatov had the ball in the net again but Young was flagged offside, probably incorrectly, before the officials got it right when Nani appealed for a penalty under Javi Garcia's challenge. Referee Cuneyt Cakir merely waved play on. Goalscorers Aimar and Fletcher traded off-target efforts, before Berbatov really should have restored the Reds' lead. Fletcher's intelligent pass freed Fabio and the Brazilian's cross was volleyed over by the unmarked Bulgarian inside the box.
It proved a costly miss as, despite the introduction of Javier Hernandez for Antonio Valencia, the Reds were unable to gain the victory that would have made the qualification process considerably easier. Indeed, Rodrigo went closest to a winner when easing past Fletcher but firing wide with his left foot. As it is, the final group fixture in Basel next month carries great significance and any hope of topping the group may have vanished in the cold Manchester air.
Read more...
Custom Search
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Benfica Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [2 - 2] Benfica
3' [0 - 1] P. Jones (o.g.)
30' [1 - 1] D. Berbatov
59' [2 - 1] D. Fletcher
61' [2 - 2] P. Aimar
Read more...
3' [0 - 1] P. Jones (o.g.)
30' [1 - 1] D. Berbatov
59' [2 - 1] D. Fletcher
61' [2 - 2] P. Aimar
Read more...
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Swansea Vs. Manchester United Match Report Result
United ensured they remained hot on the heels of their Manchester neighbours with a first-ever victory over Swansea City in Wales.
This was the first meeting between the two teams in 28 years with the Reds never having beaten the Welsh side on their own patch in eight previous attempts. Brendan Rodgers’ side were intent on maintaining that record and indeed this season’s unbeaten run at the Liberty Stadium, but Javier Hernandez’s 11th-minute strike proved decisive as Sir Alex’s men, who were professional in their play, rather than prolific, overcame a spirited display from the Swans.
With Manchester City eight points clear at the top of the table at kick-off though, Sir Alex knew victory was imperative and he sent out a strong team with that very much in mind. There were three changes to the side that beat Sunderland with David De Gea returning in goal, Michael Carrick starting his first league game of the season and Ryan Giggs back in action in his native Wales and featuring in his first match for five weeks after a spell in the treatment room. And it was the Welshman who ensured the Reds got off to the perfect start on 11 minutes.
Angel Rangel dithered on the ball at the back and his attempted pass was easily cut out by Giggs. The midfielder powered into the area before sliding a low cross into the path of Javier Hernandez who side-footed home from five yards to keep up his impressive run of goals away from home.
Swansea, who had come out of the blocks with real intent, remained buoyant despite the early blow and went close to restoring parity on 22 minutes; indeed, Scott Sinclair will still be wondering how he didn’t get his name on the score-sheet. Just after Patrice Evra had seen a low drive well held by Michel Vorm, Danny Graham, the Swans’ lone front-man, shrugged off a challenge at the other end to put Wayne Routledge in. His cross cannoned off Carrick and into the path of Sinclair who, with the goal gaping and De Gea struggling to get back in position, completely missed the ball from eight yards out.
After breathing a sigh of relief, the Reds, who were in relative control thereafter, set about building on their advantage. After Giggs had flashed a free-kick just wide nine minutes from the break, Hernandez found himself clear down the right but he over-hit his cross towards the onrushing Rooney and the chance was gone.
It was the Swans who had the first sight of goal after the restart. Joe Allen, brought on to replace Routledge, rolled the ball out to Sinclair who sent a powerful left-foot drive goalwards, but it was well parried by De Gea. Gary Monk then miscued a free header from the resulting corner.
The Swans continued to battle but De Gea and co. held firm. At the other end, Hernandez was always a threat on the break, while Rooney was involved in virtually all of United’s good play. Indeed, the England striker tried his luck from long range on 70 minutes, but Vorm claimed well.
With only one goal in it, the Swans continued to probe. Sinclair escaped the attentions of Rooney down the left and picked out Graham in the box. His shot was well blocked by Carrick, while Ashley Williams saw his follow-up effort cleared by Ferdinand.
With time almost up, the Reds went close to doubling their lead. Rooney chipped the ball onto the roof, before Jones, on one of his now renowned bursts forward, fired a low drive, from inside the area, against the far post. Then Nani curled another effort just wide in then dying seconds.
United held out for the victory - their fifth in a row - and ensured they kept up the heat on City. Read more...
This was the first meeting between the two teams in 28 years with the Reds never having beaten the Welsh side on their own patch in eight previous attempts. Brendan Rodgers’ side were intent on maintaining that record and indeed this season’s unbeaten run at the Liberty Stadium, but Javier Hernandez’s 11th-minute strike proved decisive as Sir Alex’s men, who were professional in their play, rather than prolific, overcame a spirited display from the Swans.
With Manchester City eight points clear at the top of the table at kick-off though, Sir Alex knew victory was imperative and he sent out a strong team with that very much in mind. There were three changes to the side that beat Sunderland with David De Gea returning in goal, Michael Carrick starting his first league game of the season and Ryan Giggs back in action in his native Wales and featuring in his first match for five weeks after a spell in the treatment room. And it was the Welshman who ensured the Reds got off to the perfect start on 11 minutes.
Angel Rangel dithered on the ball at the back and his attempted pass was easily cut out by Giggs. The midfielder powered into the area before sliding a low cross into the path of Javier Hernandez who side-footed home from five yards to keep up his impressive run of goals away from home.
Swansea, who had come out of the blocks with real intent, remained buoyant despite the early blow and went close to restoring parity on 22 minutes; indeed, Scott Sinclair will still be wondering how he didn’t get his name on the score-sheet. Just after Patrice Evra had seen a low drive well held by Michel Vorm, Danny Graham, the Swans’ lone front-man, shrugged off a challenge at the other end to put Wayne Routledge in. His cross cannoned off Carrick and into the path of Sinclair who, with the goal gaping and De Gea struggling to get back in position, completely missed the ball from eight yards out.
After breathing a sigh of relief, the Reds, who were in relative control thereafter, set about building on their advantage. After Giggs had flashed a free-kick just wide nine minutes from the break, Hernandez found himself clear down the right but he over-hit his cross towards the onrushing Rooney and the chance was gone.
It was the Swans who had the first sight of goal after the restart. Joe Allen, brought on to replace Routledge, rolled the ball out to Sinclair who sent a powerful left-foot drive goalwards, but it was well parried by De Gea. Gary Monk then miscued a free header from the resulting corner.
The Swans continued to battle but De Gea and co. held firm. At the other end, Hernandez was always a threat on the break, while Rooney was involved in virtually all of United’s good play. Indeed, the England striker tried his luck from long range on 70 minutes, but Vorm claimed well.
With only one goal in it, the Swans continued to probe. Sinclair escaped the attentions of Rooney down the left and picked out Graham in the box. His shot was well blocked by Carrick, while Ashley Williams saw his follow-up effort cleared by Ferdinand.
With time almost up, the Reds went close to doubling their lead. Rooney chipped the ball onto the roof, before Jones, on one of his now renowned bursts forward, fired a low drive, from inside the area, against the far post. Then Nani curled another effort just wide in then dying seconds.
United held out for the victory - their fifth in a row - and ensured they kept up the heat on City. Read more...
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Sunderland Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [1 - 0] Sunderland
45' [1 - 0] W. Brown (o.g.)
1-0 Brown (Own goal) 45'+1
Read more...
45' [1 - 0] W. Brown (o.g.)
1-0 Brown (Own goal) 45'+1
Read more...
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Otelul Galati Match Result Report
United's Champions League victory over Romania's Otelul Galati was workmanlike rather than wonderful. But a win's a win and this one was enough to leave Sir Alex's men in a commanding position at the top of Group C, with two games to play.
Antonio Valencia's eighth-minute tap-in was all that separated the sides on the scoreboard until Wayne Rooney's late long-range effort deflected off Cristian Sarghi and past the Galati goalkeeper. But it wasn't as if United found the going particularly tough against Galati; the Reds actually looked comfortable, if not wholly convincing, for long periods.
It was a similar story a fortnight ago in Bucharest when two second-half spot-kicks, both won and converted by Rooney, handed United the three points. Rooney didn't quite get his name on the scoresheet again in this match (UEFA have declared the Reds' second an own goal), but he still had a big impact, albeit from a much different area of the pitch.
Indeed, Sir Alex took the unusual step of deploying Wayne in a deep-lying midfield role. And although it was unfamiliar teriitory, the Reds' no.10 didn't disappoint. Within 40 seconds he had chased Liviu Antal down towards the corner flag and harried the Romanian into coughing up possession.
Rooney then went on to demonstrate, in understated fashion, a knack for keeping the ball moving with simple first-time passes, interspersing these with a steady array of more ambitious long balls. In many ways, his performance was reminiscent of the way Paul Scholes used to quietly dictate a game's rhythmn.
Indeed, it was the Reds' no.10 who was responsible for launching the attack that yielded the early opener. His long, raking pass to the right wing found Dimitar Berbatov, who held the ball up briefly before releasing Phil Jones on the overlap. His ball to the near post just eluded Michael Owen’s stretch, but waiting behind, unmarked and only three yards from goal, was Antonio Valencia. He was never going to miss.
The joy in the stands was tempered a minute later when Owen, who appeared to have injured himself while attempting to reach Jones' cross, limped down the tunnel and was replaced by Javier Hernandez. It was United's two full-backs, though, who came closest to adding a second before half-time. First Fabio embarked on a dribble from the left-back position that only ended when his attempt to roll the ball across goal for Berbatov was blocked by a last-ditch tackle. Along the way he'd left countless Romanians in his wake.
Then Jones surged down the right, cut inside the penalty area and unleashed a curling left-footed effort that looked bound for the far corner until Sergiu Costin intervened with a headed clearance. Galati, too, almost troubled the scorers on 42 minutes when Ionut Neagu pounced on Anderson's loose pass and advanced on goal. His effort took a touch off Rio Ferdinand, which forced David De Gea, hitherto unworked and untroubled, into a smart reflex save.
Just after the break, Berbatov, Jones and Hernandez sparked brief panic inside the Galati penalty area with some neat interplay that cut the Romanian defence apart before goalkeeper Grahovac spread himself well to snuff out the danger. Down the other end, De Gea had to be equally alert to punch the ball clear as Antal raced to get on the end of a left-wing centre. Minutes later he gleefully clutched the ball to his chest after Costin rose at the back post to meet subsitute Sorin Frunza's corner.
Costin was in the thick of the action again when he raced back to clear off the line after Anderson combined with Berbatov to reach the return pass first and lift the ball past the onrushing Grahovac. Hernandez had a long-range shot saved and Berbatov poked a presentable chance wide of the near post on 75 minutes before Rooney added the icing on the cake with his deflected effort.
It made the final scoreline look more respectable and probably reflected more accurately the balance of play (although Galati did try and force their way back into it late on). In many ways, though, the sloppy nature of the goal summed up a match that probably won't live long in the memory of many United fans. Read more...
Antonio Valencia's eighth-minute tap-in was all that separated the sides on the scoreboard until Wayne Rooney's late long-range effort deflected off Cristian Sarghi and past the Galati goalkeeper. But it wasn't as if United found the going particularly tough against Galati; the Reds actually looked comfortable, if not wholly convincing, for long periods.
It was a similar story a fortnight ago in Bucharest when two second-half spot-kicks, both won and converted by Rooney, handed United the three points. Rooney didn't quite get his name on the scoresheet again in this match (UEFA have declared the Reds' second an own goal), but he still had a big impact, albeit from a much different area of the pitch.
Indeed, Sir Alex took the unusual step of deploying Wayne in a deep-lying midfield role. And although it was unfamiliar teriitory, the Reds' no.10 didn't disappoint. Within 40 seconds he had chased Liviu Antal down towards the corner flag and harried the Romanian into coughing up possession.
Rooney then went on to demonstrate, in understated fashion, a knack for keeping the ball moving with simple first-time passes, interspersing these with a steady array of more ambitious long balls. In many ways, his performance was reminiscent of the way Paul Scholes used to quietly dictate a game's rhythmn.
Indeed, it was the Reds' no.10 who was responsible for launching the attack that yielded the early opener. His long, raking pass to the right wing found Dimitar Berbatov, who held the ball up briefly before releasing Phil Jones on the overlap. His ball to the near post just eluded Michael Owen’s stretch, but waiting behind, unmarked and only three yards from goal, was Antonio Valencia. He was never going to miss.
The joy in the stands was tempered a minute later when Owen, who appeared to have injured himself while attempting to reach Jones' cross, limped down the tunnel and was replaced by Javier Hernandez. It was United's two full-backs, though, who came closest to adding a second before half-time. First Fabio embarked on a dribble from the left-back position that only ended when his attempt to roll the ball across goal for Berbatov was blocked by a last-ditch tackle. Along the way he'd left countless Romanians in his wake.
Then Jones surged down the right, cut inside the penalty area and unleashed a curling left-footed effort that looked bound for the far corner until Sergiu Costin intervened with a headed clearance. Galati, too, almost troubled the scorers on 42 minutes when Ionut Neagu pounced on Anderson's loose pass and advanced on goal. His effort took a touch off Rio Ferdinand, which forced David De Gea, hitherto unworked and untroubled, into a smart reflex save.
Just after the break, Berbatov, Jones and Hernandez sparked brief panic inside the Galati penalty area with some neat interplay that cut the Romanian defence apart before goalkeeper Grahovac spread himself well to snuff out the danger. Down the other end, De Gea had to be equally alert to punch the ball clear as Antal raced to get on the end of a left-wing centre. Minutes later he gleefully clutched the ball to his chest after Costin rose at the back post to meet subsitute Sorin Frunza's corner.
Costin was in the thick of the action again when he raced back to clear off the line after Anderson combined with Berbatov to reach the return pass first and lift the ball past the onrushing Grahovac. Hernandez had a long-range shot saved and Berbatov poked a presentable chance wide of the near post on 75 minutes before Rooney added the icing on the cake with his deflected effort.
It made the final scoreline look more respectable and probably reflected more accurately the balance of play (although Galati did try and force their way back into it late on). In many ways, though, the sloppy nature of the goal summed up a match that probably won't live long in the memory of many United fans. Read more...
Manchester United Vs. Otelul Galati Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [2 - 0] Otelul Galati
8' [1 - 0] L.A. Valencia
87' [2 - 0] W. Rooney
1-0 Valencia A. 8'
0-2 Rooney W. 87'
Read more...
8' [1 - 0] L.A. Valencia
87' [2 - 0] W. Rooney
1-0 Valencia A. 8'
0-2 Rooney W. 87'
Read more...
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Everton Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report
Three points were required at Everton after last week's dismal derby defeat and the champions ground out a 1-0 victory to muster the right response.
Admittedly, the Reds weren't at their most fluent - and Tom Cleverley's injury after a bright return to Barclays Premier League action was a real setback - but Javier Hernandez's 19th-minute goal proved decisive. Any suggestion that the Merseysiders would tire after being taken into extra-time by Chelsea in a midweek cup tie proved ill-founded as United had to batten down the hatches for much of the second half.
Sir Alex made five changes to the team that lost to City last Sunday with Wayne Rooney starting in a withdrawn role alongside Cleverley and Darren Fletcher, and Jonny Evans returning from the suspension he served at Aldershot.
In a breathless opening, Seamus Coleman cut inside Patrice Evra to shoot at David De Gea within the first 18 seconds and Tim Howard pulled off a good stop at the other end when Ji-sung Park tried to convert a Danny Welbeck cross inside two minutes.
United took a firm grip on proceedings and some sustained pressure led to a well-worked opener. Cleverley and Welbeck helped the ball wide to Evra and the full-back's dangerous low cross was tapped home by Hernandez with his left foot. Although Welbeck nearly latched onto a risky headed backpass by Phil Jagielka, the champions were unable to carve out too many openings and Everton came back into the match.
De Gea saved from Leon Osman after Marouane Fellaini beat Evans in the air and Jack Rodwell fired wide when afforded far too much space after Evra conceded possession cheaply. The hosts were unlucky not to draw level with 40 minutes gone as Fletcher's foul allowed Leighton Baines to curl a free-kick over the wall and past the stationary De Gea but against the bar.
Although Hernandez had a weak attempt at Howard following a slick build-up, there was no doubt Everton ended the half on the front feet as Louis Saha twice worked De Gea.
After introducing young Ross Barkley at the break, David Moyes' side continued to press but De Gea blocked a Rodwell drive after Evans gifted the ball to Coleman on the right. The champions were dealt a blow when the lively Cleverley was forced off injured and continued to make heavy weather of a tough assignement.
Welbeck finally brought Howard into action when the American pushed over the striker's shot from Hernandez's intelligent pass with the team's only real goal attempt of the second period. But, after making all three subsitutions, United struggled to find any rhythm and Everton built up another head of steam. Saha dragged wastefully wide when Coleman was better placed and was then blocked during a real goalmouth scramble.
Despite their weary legs, the hosts ensured it was a nervous finale for everybody of a Red persuasion. Coleman managed a couple of efforts through to De Gea but the Spain Under-21 keeper was rarely over-extended, in truth.
Six minutes of injury time were agonising for the away fans and Evra escaped when Magaye Guaye went down under his challenge inside the box with Mark Halsey making the right call and waving away the desperate penalty appeals. It wasn't pretty but it's three away wins in the league already this term after only five were secured during the title-winning campaign last term. Read more...
Admittedly, the Reds weren't at their most fluent - and Tom Cleverley's injury after a bright return to Barclays Premier League action was a real setback - but Javier Hernandez's 19th-minute goal proved decisive. Any suggestion that the Merseysiders would tire after being taken into extra-time by Chelsea in a midweek cup tie proved ill-founded as United had to batten down the hatches for much of the second half.
Sir Alex made five changes to the team that lost to City last Sunday with Wayne Rooney starting in a withdrawn role alongside Cleverley and Darren Fletcher, and Jonny Evans returning from the suspension he served at Aldershot.
In a breathless opening, Seamus Coleman cut inside Patrice Evra to shoot at David De Gea within the first 18 seconds and Tim Howard pulled off a good stop at the other end when Ji-sung Park tried to convert a Danny Welbeck cross inside two minutes.
United took a firm grip on proceedings and some sustained pressure led to a well-worked opener. Cleverley and Welbeck helped the ball wide to Evra and the full-back's dangerous low cross was tapped home by Hernandez with his left foot. Although Welbeck nearly latched onto a risky headed backpass by Phil Jagielka, the champions were unable to carve out too many openings and Everton came back into the match.
De Gea saved from Leon Osman after Marouane Fellaini beat Evans in the air and Jack Rodwell fired wide when afforded far too much space after Evra conceded possession cheaply. The hosts were unlucky not to draw level with 40 minutes gone as Fletcher's foul allowed Leighton Baines to curl a free-kick over the wall and past the stationary De Gea but against the bar.
Although Hernandez had a weak attempt at Howard following a slick build-up, there was no doubt Everton ended the half on the front feet as Louis Saha twice worked De Gea.
After introducing young Ross Barkley at the break, David Moyes' side continued to press but De Gea blocked a Rodwell drive after Evans gifted the ball to Coleman on the right. The champions were dealt a blow when the lively Cleverley was forced off injured and continued to make heavy weather of a tough assignement.
Welbeck finally brought Howard into action when the American pushed over the striker's shot from Hernandez's intelligent pass with the team's only real goal attempt of the second period. But, after making all three subsitutions, United struggled to find any rhythm and Everton built up another head of steam. Saha dragged wastefully wide when Coleman was better placed and was then blocked during a real goalmouth scramble.
Despite their weary legs, the hosts ensured it was a nervous finale for everybody of a Red persuasion. Coleman managed a couple of efforts through to De Gea but the Spain Under-21 keeper was rarely over-extended, in truth.
Six minutes of injury time were agonising for the away fans and Evra escaped when Magaye Guaye went down under his challenge inside the box with Mark Halsey making the right call and waving away the desperate penalty appeals. It wasn't pretty but it's three away wins in the league already this term after only five were secured during the title-winning campaign last term. Read more...
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Aldershot T. Vs. Manchester United Match Report Result
The vultures may have been circling at Aldershot hoping a Carling Cup giantkilling could lead to talk of a crisis at United. However, Sir Alex Ferguson's side swiftly sent out a message that it's business as usual after the derby day disaster by cruising into the fifth round with a convincing 3-0 triumph.
Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen pressed their claims by making the most of rare starts with goals in the first half before Antonio Valencia's outstanding long-range drive ended the match as a contest. A mixture of youth and experience accounted for the Shots as easily as Leeds had been disposed of in the previous round to illustrate the strength in depth at the manager's disposal.
The Reds quickly slipped into gear with Tom Cleverley firing over the bar on his return from injury when Berbatov touched a Mame Biram Diouf header back to him. Nemanja Vidic picked up a yellow card for a clumsy foul on Alex Rodman but United were soon ahead after quarter of an hour. Ji-sung Park played an incisive one-two with Cleverley and nudged an instant pass to Berbatov, who took one touch before swivelling to sweep past Aldershot goalkeeper Ross Worner.
Berbatov should have had a clear penalty when he was felled by Luke Guttridge inside the box as Sir Alex's side threatened to overwhelm the League Two team. Fabio's shot deflected wide, Berbatov's dangerous header into the six-yard box was cleared and United forced seven corners inside the first 25 minutes.
But, to their credit, Town rallied and traded goal attempts with their illustrious opponents for a spell - even if Ben Amos was only worked by one effort, from top scorer Danny Hylton. As if to emphasis the obvious gulf in quality, Owen doubled the lead to quieten the capacity crowd. After picking out Berbatov with a raking pass, the number seven showed his thirst for goals by arriving in the box on cue to convert the Bulgarian's inviting assist, despite Worner getting a touch to the shot.
The second half started in a similar vein as Valencia collected a Cleverley pass and hit a stunning drive with whip and bend that crashed high into the net over Worner's despairing dive. Berbatov was working harder than anybody and, after feeling aggrieved when having another penalty appeal waved away, as Aaron Morris handled, he stormed through when linking up with Park and dragged his finish wide when really deserving another goal.
Paul Pogba was introduced, for Cleverley, and soon had a shot well wide before Ravel Morrison and Michael Keane, for his debut, also came on for a taste of the action. United kept pressing but Park drilled wide when picked out from a corner by Owen and only a fine Darren Jones tackle thwarted Morrison following an exquisite exchange of flicks with Berbatov. Park's dynamic solo run ended with referee Peter Walton pulling play back for a free-kick on the edge of the box with Berbatov's set-piece pushed away by Worner as the Shots continued the process of damage limitation.
The game finished with a flurry of threats - Valencia spurned a glorious late chance after bursting through and Guttridge hammered a shot wide as the hosts sought a consolation goal that would at least have cheered their support. Guttridge also brought a flying save out of Amos in the closing stages with the keeper showing his concentration when it mattered most. There was to be no joy for Aldershot - nor for those hoping United's weekend misery would be prolonged any longer. Read more...
Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen pressed their claims by making the most of rare starts with goals in the first half before Antonio Valencia's outstanding long-range drive ended the match as a contest. A mixture of youth and experience accounted for the Shots as easily as Leeds had been disposed of in the previous round to illustrate the strength in depth at the manager's disposal.
The Reds quickly slipped into gear with Tom Cleverley firing over the bar on his return from injury when Berbatov touched a Mame Biram Diouf header back to him. Nemanja Vidic picked up a yellow card for a clumsy foul on Alex Rodman but United were soon ahead after quarter of an hour. Ji-sung Park played an incisive one-two with Cleverley and nudged an instant pass to Berbatov, who took one touch before swivelling to sweep past Aldershot goalkeeper Ross Worner.
Berbatov should have had a clear penalty when he was felled by Luke Guttridge inside the box as Sir Alex's side threatened to overwhelm the League Two team. Fabio's shot deflected wide, Berbatov's dangerous header into the six-yard box was cleared and United forced seven corners inside the first 25 minutes.
But, to their credit, Town rallied and traded goal attempts with their illustrious opponents for a spell - even if Ben Amos was only worked by one effort, from top scorer Danny Hylton. As if to emphasis the obvious gulf in quality, Owen doubled the lead to quieten the capacity crowd. After picking out Berbatov with a raking pass, the number seven showed his thirst for goals by arriving in the box on cue to convert the Bulgarian's inviting assist, despite Worner getting a touch to the shot.
The second half started in a similar vein as Valencia collected a Cleverley pass and hit a stunning drive with whip and bend that crashed high into the net over Worner's despairing dive. Berbatov was working harder than anybody and, after feeling aggrieved when having another penalty appeal waved away, as Aaron Morris handled, he stormed through when linking up with Park and dragged his finish wide when really deserving another goal.
Paul Pogba was introduced, for Cleverley, and soon had a shot well wide before Ravel Morrison and Michael Keane, for his debut, also came on for a taste of the action. United kept pressing but Park drilled wide when picked out from a corner by Owen and only a fine Darren Jones tackle thwarted Morrison following an exquisite exchange of flicks with Berbatov. Park's dynamic solo run ended with referee Peter Walton pulling play back for a free-kick on the edge of the box with Berbatov's set-piece pushed away by Worner as the Shots continued the process of damage limitation.
The game finished with a flurry of threats - Valencia spurned a glorious late chance after bursting through and Guttridge hammered a shot wide as the hosts sought a consolation goal that would at least have cheered their support. Guttridge also brought a flying save out of Amos in the closing stages with the keeper showing his concentration when it mattered most. There was to be no joy for Aldershot - nor for those hoping United's weekend misery would be prolonged any longer. Read more...
Aldershot T. Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips
Aldershot T. [0 - 3] Manchester United
15' [0 - 1] D. Berbatov
41' [0 - 2] M. Owen
48' [0 - 3] L.A. Valencia
Read more...
15' [0 - 1] D. Berbatov
41' [0 - 2] M. Owen
48' [0 - 3] L.A. Valencia
Read more...
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Manchester City Match Report Result
It had been billed as the biggest Manchester derby in decades, but it turned out to be a derby day to forget for United as City celebrated a historic 6-1 victory at Old Trafford.The Reds started as the brighter of the two teams but it was the Blues who made the crucial breakthrough when Mario Balotelli sidefooted past David De Gea after 20 minutes. Jonny Evans’ red card just after the break made it a real uphill fight for the champions and it got worse thereafter as Balotelli grabbed a second goal before further strikes from Sergio Aguero, David Silva and two from substitute Edin Dzeko left Old Trafford stunned. United’s 18-month unbeaten run at home was well and truly over.
Sir Alex Ferguson made three changes to the side that had earned a point at Anfield eight days earlier with Wayne Rooney, Anderson and Nani all returning. Meanwhile, Jonny Evans partnered Rio Ferdinand in the back four, with Nemanja Vidic - sent off in the Champions League in midweek - not in the 18. City boss Roberto Mancini, meanwhile, opted for a five-man midfield of Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry, James Milner, Mario Balotelli and David Silva with Sergio Aguero up front on his own.
United dominated the early possession with Nani and Ashley Young looking lively on both flanks, and Wayne Rooney seemingly very much in the mood, dropping deep to dictate the play for much of the opening 20 minutes. But tellingly, as it turned out, the Reds failed to create any real clear-cut chances.
City saw very little of the ball in that period but whenever they did the men in blue were always quick to try and find the man that makes them tick – David Silva. The Spaniard looked a threat every time he gained possession indeed it was his pass into James Milner which led to City taking the lead on 22 minutes. Silva collected possession on the edge of the area before slipping the ball into Milner who had burst down the left. His pull-back fell perfectly for Balotelli who cleverly steered the ball into the far corner and out of the reach of David De Gea.
It was harsh on United who had barely given City a look-in up to that point. The Blues visibly grew in confidence on the back of the breakthrough as the game livened up. Balotelli just failed to connect with an Aguero cross soon after the goal, while Yaya Toure flashed a 30-yarder over the bar.
After the initial shock of falling behind, the United players got back into their earlier stride and cranked up the pressure on City. Young curled an effort just wide, while Anderson and Rooney both stung the palms of Joe Hart in quick succession. Jonny Evans spurned United’s best chance five minutes from the break when, after being found by Rooney via a short corner, the defender completely missed his kick from five yards out.
Evans was at the centre of the game’s big moment two minutes after the restart when he pulled Balotelli back as the Italian striker bore down on goal. Referee Mark Clattenburg had no choice but to give the Northern Ireland international his marching orders and in turn make United’s afternoon a whole lot harder.
Despite the setback the Reds seemed to be galvanised and, buoyed on by a raucous Old Trafford crowd, duly bombed forward despite the numerical disadvantage. Young saw his ricocheted effort drop just wide, while Rooney blasted a shot straight at Hart. United’s new-found optimism was short-lived however when Balotelli’s doubled his and City’s tally on the hour-mark. Silva was again at the heart of City’s good play as he flicked a lovely pass into Milner who had burst into the area and once again delivered a pass to Balotelli who was on hand to slot home from close range.
United’s misery was compounded eight minutes later when Aguero made it 3-0 to City, at the end of another excellent move. Balotelli backheeled the ball to Milner who put Micah Richards in down the right and crossed for Aguero to convert from three yards.
It almost got worse for United soon after when Silva blasted over and substitute Edin Dzeko rolled a shot wide and then saw another saved by De Gea as City broke forward.
Darren Fletcher handed the champions a lifeline nine minutes from time with a sublime curling finish into the top corner after a one-two with Reds substitute Hernandez, but City made sure of the victory and a painful for afternoon for the found the net in injury-time. Bragging rights - and more worryingly, a five-point lead - belong to the Blues. Read more...
Sir Alex Ferguson made three changes to the side that had earned a point at Anfield eight days earlier with Wayne Rooney, Anderson and Nani all returning. Meanwhile, Jonny Evans partnered Rio Ferdinand in the back four, with Nemanja Vidic - sent off in the Champions League in midweek - not in the 18. City boss Roberto Mancini, meanwhile, opted for a five-man midfield of Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry, James Milner, Mario Balotelli and David Silva with Sergio Aguero up front on his own.
United dominated the early possession with Nani and Ashley Young looking lively on both flanks, and Wayne Rooney seemingly very much in the mood, dropping deep to dictate the play for much of the opening 20 minutes. But tellingly, as it turned out, the Reds failed to create any real clear-cut chances.
City saw very little of the ball in that period but whenever they did the men in blue were always quick to try and find the man that makes them tick – David Silva. The Spaniard looked a threat every time he gained possession indeed it was his pass into James Milner which led to City taking the lead on 22 minutes. Silva collected possession on the edge of the area before slipping the ball into Milner who had burst down the left. His pull-back fell perfectly for Balotelli who cleverly steered the ball into the far corner and out of the reach of David De Gea.
It was harsh on United who had barely given City a look-in up to that point. The Blues visibly grew in confidence on the back of the breakthrough as the game livened up. Balotelli just failed to connect with an Aguero cross soon after the goal, while Yaya Toure flashed a 30-yarder over the bar.
After the initial shock of falling behind, the United players got back into their earlier stride and cranked up the pressure on City. Young curled an effort just wide, while Anderson and Rooney both stung the palms of Joe Hart in quick succession. Jonny Evans spurned United’s best chance five minutes from the break when, after being found by Rooney via a short corner, the defender completely missed his kick from five yards out.
Evans was at the centre of the game’s big moment two minutes after the restart when he pulled Balotelli back as the Italian striker bore down on goal. Referee Mark Clattenburg had no choice but to give the Northern Ireland international his marching orders and in turn make United’s afternoon a whole lot harder.
Despite the setback the Reds seemed to be galvanised and, buoyed on by a raucous Old Trafford crowd, duly bombed forward despite the numerical disadvantage. Young saw his ricocheted effort drop just wide, while Rooney blasted a shot straight at Hart. United’s new-found optimism was short-lived however when Balotelli’s doubled his and City’s tally on the hour-mark. Silva was again at the heart of City’s good play as he flicked a lovely pass into Milner who had burst into the area and once again delivered a pass to Balotelli who was on hand to slot home from close range.
United’s misery was compounded eight minutes later when Aguero made it 3-0 to City, at the end of another excellent move. Balotelli backheeled the ball to Milner who put Micah Richards in down the right and crossed for Aguero to convert from three yards.
It almost got worse for United soon after when Silva blasted over and substitute Edin Dzeko rolled a shot wide and then saw another saved by De Gea as City broke forward.
Darren Fletcher handed the champions a lifeline nine minutes from time with a sublime curling finish into the top corner after a one-two with Reds substitute Hernandez, but City made sure of the victory and a painful for afternoon for the found the net in injury-time. Bragging rights - and more worryingly, a five-point lead - belong to the Blues. Read more...
Manchester United Vs. Manchester City Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [1 - 6] Manchester City
22' [0 - 1] M. Balotelli
60' [0 - 2] M. Balotelli
69' [0 - 3] S. Agüero
81' [1 - 3] D. Fletcher
90' [1 - 4] E. Dzeko
90' [1 - 5] D. Silva
90' [1 - 6] E. Dzeko
Read more...
22' [0 - 1] M. Balotelli
60' [0 - 2] M. Balotelli
69' [0 - 3] S. Agüero
81' [1 - 3] D. Fletcher
90' [1 - 4] E. Dzeko
90' [1 - 5] D. Silva
90' [1 - 6] E. Dzeko
Read more...
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Otelul Galati Vs. Manchester United Match Report Result
United endured a difficult night in the UEFA Champions League, needing two Wayne Rooney penalties to defeat unfancied Otelul Galati and playing the last 25 minutes with ten men after Nemanja Vidic's controversial red card.
Both Rooney's first goal and the skipper's dismissal came just after the hour mark as the Reds critically upped the ante after an uninspiring first period at the impressive National Arena in Bucharest. There wasn't a huge improvement in the second half but the English champions did just enough to claim a first win in this Group C campaign and inflict a third slender defeat on the Romanian hosts.
Sir Alex Ferguson's eleven showed nine changes from the side that started at Anfield, retaining only Patrice Evra and, moving from right- to centre-back, Chris Smalling. Nemanja Vidic made his first appearance for the Reds since the opening league win at West Brom, and behind him Anders Lindegaard came in for his third start in goal this term, having impressed on the previous European trip to Benfica.
United's hosts - with their record-signing centre-back Milan Perendija reportedly costing just £85,000 - were massively underdogs, despite only losing by the odd goal in their first ever games in the Champions League group stage - to Basel (1-2 away) and Benfica (0-1 home), the two sides who limited the Reds to just two points prior to this excursion into the unknown in Romania.
As expected, Galati conceded the lion’s share of possession to the English champions but they were comfortable behind the ball for the first 20 minutes. In fact, it was the Romanians who drew first blood in terms of shooting opportunities, the first gifted by the Reds’ rusty skipper Vidic to lone striker Bratislav Punosevac. The latter failed to pack sufficient power into his effort to concern Lindegaard and his second strike, from a similar spot just outside the box, found the same fate – straight into the Dane’s hands. United’s keeper almost contrived to create a third chance in a row for the Romanians when his careless clearance cannoned back off his captain but the Reds survived the scare.
Failing to clear their lines from a free-kick almost cost United’s rearguard dear when defensive midfielder Iaon Filip strode forward to fire a shot just over Lindegaard’s bar. But this latest in a handful of half-chances was hardly reflective of the overall play, with United dominant in midfield where Rooney dropped in to join Anderson and Carrick in patiently trying to pick a way through the massed ranks of white shirts. However, Carrick’s most important early contribution - on his third consecutive start in the Champions League – was to throw his body in the way of Ionut Neagu’s effort.
Rooney went closest to a first-half breakthrough when his free-kick, not dissimilar to Steven Gerrard’s at Anfield, crept through the wall and was scrambled away less than convincingly by Branko Grahovac. The Galati goalkeeper made a better save from a better shot, unleashed by Patrice Evra on a typical burst down the left flank. The Bosnian shot-stopper also blocked a right-foot strike from Nani, moments after watching Carrick spurn United's best opening of the half by sidefooting Nani's pull-back over the bar. The frame at the other end was also cleared vertically, by Liviu Antal's header just before the break, from the only corner of a disappointing first half. The absence of injury time was a blessing.
United’s bid to raise the tempo at the start of the second half was met with some rough-house tactics from the Romanians with Nani on the receiving end of two fouls by right-back Cornel Rapa, the second of which was punished by a yellow card. Perendija was also cautioned for going through the back of Rooney but the Reds weren’t angels either, with Carrick entering the book for a clumsy challenge on Antal. Neagu continued the flurry of cards when he cynically took Nani out as the Portuguese winger tried a spot of ball-juggling in midfield.
Undeterred, Nani teed up Rooney for a shot on the turn that just whistled past the left-hand post and fed the same team-mate again in the move that finally made the breakthrough in the 64th minute. When Wayne’s attempt to find Hernandez unmarked on the other side of the box was thwarted by Sergiu Costin’s blatant handball, the striker stepped up to sidefoot home the resulting penalty with Grahovac diving the wrong way, right.
If Costin was lucky to escape with a yellow card – Galati’s fourth – then Vidic was very unfortunate to see red when he caught Gabriel Giurgiu with a raised right boot. The shock on the Serbian’s face was plain to see but away he trooped, to leave ten men facing fired-up Galati who might have equalised had Carrick not blocked Antal’s venomous volley. Moments later Sir Alex sent on Jonny Evans to play alongside Smalling, with Antonio Valencia sacrificed. A further change followed at the back with Phil Jones coming on for Fabio who’d earlier been treated after an awkward fall.
Nani nearly made it 2-0 with a free-kick saved by Grahovac, after Giurgiu was booked for a foul on Chicharito, but Punosevac was off-target at the other end - just - having connected first time with Filip's cross. Nani tried again with the clock just shy of 90 minutes but this time his shot struck the right-hand post, this coming moments after Perendija's second yellow card - for another foul on Chicharito - evened up the personnel.
Rooney's second penalty, after the striker himself was tripped in the box by Antal, made the points absolutely safe and took some of the pressure off the Reds with the Galati home game coming next in this campaign. Read more...
Both Rooney's first goal and the skipper's dismissal came just after the hour mark as the Reds critically upped the ante after an uninspiring first period at the impressive National Arena in Bucharest. There wasn't a huge improvement in the second half but the English champions did just enough to claim a first win in this Group C campaign and inflict a third slender defeat on the Romanian hosts.
Sir Alex Ferguson's eleven showed nine changes from the side that started at Anfield, retaining only Patrice Evra and, moving from right- to centre-back, Chris Smalling. Nemanja Vidic made his first appearance for the Reds since the opening league win at West Brom, and behind him Anders Lindegaard came in for his third start in goal this term, having impressed on the previous European trip to Benfica.
United's hosts - with their record-signing centre-back Milan Perendija reportedly costing just £85,000 - were massively underdogs, despite only losing by the odd goal in their first ever games in the Champions League group stage - to Basel (1-2 away) and Benfica (0-1 home), the two sides who limited the Reds to just two points prior to this excursion into the unknown in Romania.
As expected, Galati conceded the lion’s share of possession to the English champions but they were comfortable behind the ball for the first 20 minutes. In fact, it was the Romanians who drew first blood in terms of shooting opportunities, the first gifted by the Reds’ rusty skipper Vidic to lone striker Bratislav Punosevac. The latter failed to pack sufficient power into his effort to concern Lindegaard and his second strike, from a similar spot just outside the box, found the same fate – straight into the Dane’s hands. United’s keeper almost contrived to create a third chance in a row for the Romanians when his careless clearance cannoned back off his captain but the Reds survived the scare.
Failing to clear their lines from a free-kick almost cost United’s rearguard dear when defensive midfielder Iaon Filip strode forward to fire a shot just over Lindegaard’s bar. But this latest in a handful of half-chances was hardly reflective of the overall play, with United dominant in midfield where Rooney dropped in to join Anderson and Carrick in patiently trying to pick a way through the massed ranks of white shirts. However, Carrick’s most important early contribution - on his third consecutive start in the Champions League – was to throw his body in the way of Ionut Neagu’s effort.
Rooney went closest to a first-half breakthrough when his free-kick, not dissimilar to Steven Gerrard’s at Anfield, crept through the wall and was scrambled away less than convincingly by Branko Grahovac. The Galati goalkeeper made a better save from a better shot, unleashed by Patrice Evra on a typical burst down the left flank. The Bosnian shot-stopper also blocked a right-foot strike from Nani, moments after watching Carrick spurn United's best opening of the half by sidefooting Nani's pull-back over the bar. The frame at the other end was also cleared vertically, by Liviu Antal's header just before the break, from the only corner of a disappointing first half. The absence of injury time was a blessing.
United’s bid to raise the tempo at the start of the second half was met with some rough-house tactics from the Romanians with Nani on the receiving end of two fouls by right-back Cornel Rapa, the second of which was punished by a yellow card. Perendija was also cautioned for going through the back of Rooney but the Reds weren’t angels either, with Carrick entering the book for a clumsy challenge on Antal. Neagu continued the flurry of cards when he cynically took Nani out as the Portuguese winger tried a spot of ball-juggling in midfield.
Undeterred, Nani teed up Rooney for a shot on the turn that just whistled past the left-hand post and fed the same team-mate again in the move that finally made the breakthrough in the 64th minute. When Wayne’s attempt to find Hernandez unmarked on the other side of the box was thwarted by Sergiu Costin’s blatant handball, the striker stepped up to sidefoot home the resulting penalty with Grahovac diving the wrong way, right.
If Costin was lucky to escape with a yellow card – Galati’s fourth – then Vidic was very unfortunate to see red when he caught Gabriel Giurgiu with a raised right boot. The shock on the Serbian’s face was plain to see but away he trooped, to leave ten men facing fired-up Galati who might have equalised had Carrick not blocked Antal’s venomous volley. Moments later Sir Alex sent on Jonny Evans to play alongside Smalling, with Antonio Valencia sacrificed. A further change followed at the back with Phil Jones coming on for Fabio who’d earlier been treated after an awkward fall.
Nani nearly made it 2-0 with a free-kick saved by Grahovac, after Giurgiu was booked for a foul on Chicharito, but Punosevac was off-target at the other end - just - having connected first time with Filip's cross. Nani tried again with the clock just shy of 90 minutes but this time his shot struck the right-hand post, this coming moments after Perendija's second yellow card - for another foul on Chicharito - evened up the personnel.
Rooney's second penalty, after the striker himself was tripped in the box by Antal, made the points absolutely safe and took some of the pressure off the Reds with the Galati home game coming next in this campaign. Read more...
Otelul Galati Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips
Otelul Galati [0 - 2] Manchester United
64' [0 - 1] W. Rooney (pen.)
90' [0 - 2] W. Rooney (pen.)
Highlights
0-1 Wayne Rooney (pen) 64'
0-2 Wayne Rooney (pen) 90'
Read more...
64' [0 - 1] W. Rooney (pen.)
90' [0 - 2] W. Rooney (pen.)
Highlights
0-1 Wayne Rooney (pen) 64'
0-2 Wayne Rooney (pen) 90'
Read more...
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Manchester United Vs. FC Basel Match Report Result
Two quick-fire braces in either half – United's in the first, Basel's in the second – lit up an entertaining encounter at Old Trafford that swung both ways before eventually ending even thanks to a 90th-minute Ashley Young equaliser.
When Danny Welbeck sent United 2-0 up after just 17 minutes, United looked to be cruising. But as Basel stayed true to their footballing principles, attacked in numbers and pressed the Reds high up the pitch, they created chances and, with 14 minutes to play, had taken three of them.
That sent United in search of a late equaliser and, in the 90th minute, Young arrived at the far post to head home substitute Nani's cross and rescue a valuable point.
Sir Alex was visibly relieved to have snatched a draw at the final whistle, and yet the Reds had been two goals to the good with barely a quarter-of-an-hour on the clock. That said, the warning signs had been there. Basel even fashioned the first chance of the game. Midfielder Fabian Frei found space beyond Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones but blazed over from 18 yards when clean through after only five minutes.
Young then provided Antonio Valencia with a gift as inviting as a box of Swiss chocolates when he twisted and turned on the left flank before curling a sumptuous ball to the back post. The Ecuadorian's header, from all of two yards, flashed agonisingly across the face of goal.
Basel custodian Yann Sommer then did well to hold Young's firm volley, hit into the ground, before Welbeck netted the first of his double on 16 minutes. It wasn't the prettiest goal Welbeck, or United, will score this season. But they all count and Danny's scuffed shot from 12 yards, which appeared to dribble goalwards in slow-motion before spinning in off the post, was just reward for a bright start.
A minute later it was 2-0. Giggs, who'd calmly laid the ball back to Welbeck for the opener, provided a rather more incisive pass this time. Collecting the ball in the inside left channel about 30 yards from goal, the Welshman advanced briefly before looking up and picking out Welbeck with a low cross that succeeded in cutting out two Basel defenders and leaving Danny with a simple side-footed finish at the back post. Basel boss Thorsten Fink will have been furious with the defending, but Giggs, in his 750th United start, showed his worth once more on the European stage.
To their credit, Basel kept plugging away and both Alexander Frei and Jacques Zoua wasted presentable chances to reduce the deficit before the interval. Neither manager made changes at half-time and both sides flew out of the traps. Young had the ball in the net after a matter of minutes but was correctly ruled offside, while Phil Jones and then David De Gea had to be at their sharpest to repel big Basel forward Marco Streller.
De Gea's denial – an instinctive save from close range with an outstretched leg – was most impressive and further showcased the supreme shot-stopping ability the Spaniard has displayed in recent weeks.
There was little he could do about Basel's opener, though. Indeed, the stopper made a smart save to get down to Streller's near-post header from a corner on the right wing. But when the ball bounced out to Fabian Frei the 22-year-old lashed it home from 12 yards to send the travelling fans wild.
They were cheering again two minutes later when Basel's other Frei, Alexander, found himself unmarked in the penalty area and with plenty of time to calmly nod Fabian's curling centre back across goal and into the net.
Suddenly Basel were level. In truth, they had never really looked beaten, even at 2-0 down. The Swiss side had played without fear – a rare trait in visiting teams at Old Trafford – and they were rewarded yet further on 75 minutes when referee Paolo Tagliavento pointed to the spot after Valencia tangled clumsily with Streller. Alexander Frei stepped up and buried the kick to send Basel in front, but this is Manchester United and drama lurks around every corner.
True enough, after probing and prodding for what seemed an age, the Reds broke through, Ashley Young heading in at the far post with only seconds of normal time to spare. United had earned a dramatic point.
Read more...
When Danny Welbeck sent United 2-0 up after just 17 minutes, United looked to be cruising. But as Basel stayed true to their footballing principles, attacked in numbers and pressed the Reds high up the pitch, they created chances and, with 14 minutes to play, had taken three of them.
That sent United in search of a late equaliser and, in the 90th minute, Young arrived at the far post to head home substitute Nani's cross and rescue a valuable point.
Sir Alex was visibly relieved to have snatched a draw at the final whistle, and yet the Reds had been two goals to the good with barely a quarter-of-an-hour on the clock. That said, the warning signs had been there. Basel even fashioned the first chance of the game. Midfielder Fabian Frei found space beyond Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones but blazed over from 18 yards when clean through after only five minutes.
Young then provided Antonio Valencia with a gift as inviting as a box of Swiss chocolates when he twisted and turned on the left flank before curling a sumptuous ball to the back post. The Ecuadorian's header, from all of two yards, flashed agonisingly across the face of goal.
Basel custodian Yann Sommer then did well to hold Young's firm volley, hit into the ground, before Welbeck netted the first of his double on 16 minutes. It wasn't the prettiest goal Welbeck, or United, will score this season. But they all count and Danny's scuffed shot from 12 yards, which appeared to dribble goalwards in slow-motion before spinning in off the post, was just reward for a bright start.
A minute later it was 2-0. Giggs, who'd calmly laid the ball back to Welbeck for the opener, provided a rather more incisive pass this time. Collecting the ball in the inside left channel about 30 yards from goal, the Welshman advanced briefly before looking up and picking out Welbeck with a low cross that succeeded in cutting out two Basel defenders and leaving Danny with a simple side-footed finish at the back post. Basel boss Thorsten Fink will have been furious with the defending, but Giggs, in his 750th United start, showed his worth once more on the European stage.
To their credit, Basel kept plugging away and both Alexander Frei and Jacques Zoua wasted presentable chances to reduce the deficit before the interval. Neither manager made changes at half-time and both sides flew out of the traps. Young had the ball in the net after a matter of minutes but was correctly ruled offside, while Phil Jones and then David De Gea had to be at their sharpest to repel big Basel forward Marco Streller.
De Gea's denial – an instinctive save from close range with an outstretched leg – was most impressive and further showcased the supreme shot-stopping ability the Spaniard has displayed in recent weeks.
There was little he could do about Basel's opener, though. Indeed, the stopper made a smart save to get down to Streller's near-post header from a corner on the right wing. But when the ball bounced out to Fabian Frei the 22-year-old lashed it home from 12 yards to send the travelling fans wild.
They were cheering again two minutes later when Basel's other Frei, Alexander, found himself unmarked in the penalty area and with plenty of time to calmly nod Fabian's curling centre back across goal and into the net.
Suddenly Basel were level. In truth, they had never really looked beaten, even at 2-0 down. The Swiss side had played without fear – a rare trait in visiting teams at Old Trafford – and they were rewarded yet further on 75 minutes when referee Paolo Tagliavento pointed to the spot after Valencia tangled clumsily with Streller. Alexander Frei stepped up and buried the kick to send Basel in front, but this is Manchester United and drama lurks around every corner.
True enough, after probing and prodding for what seemed an age, the Reds broke through, Ashley Young heading in at the far post with only seconds of normal time to spare. United had earned a dramatic point.
Read more...
Manchester United Vs. FC Basel Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [3-3] FC Basel
Danny Welbeck (16') Fabian Frei (58')
Danny Welbeck (17') Alexander Frei (60')
Ashley Young (90') Alexander Frei (pen 76')
1-0 Danny Welbeck 16'
2-0 Danny Welbeck 17'
2-1 Fabian Frei 58'
2-2 Alexander Frei 60'
2-3 Alexander Frei 76'
3-3 Ashley Cole 90'
Read more...
Danny Welbeck (16') Fabian Frei (58')
Danny Welbeck (17') Alexander Frei (60')
Ashley Young (90') Alexander Frei (pen 76')
1-0 Danny Welbeck 16'
2-0 Danny Welbeck 17'
2-1 Fabian Frei 58'
2-2 Alexander Frei 60'
2-3 Alexander Frei 76'
3-3 Ashley Cole 90'
Read more...
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Leeds United Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report
United defused a potentially explosive Carling Cup tie at Leeds with a first-half display of composure, control and devastating football.
Michael Owen is simply a natural goalscorer. Within 15 minutes of his first involvement of the campaign, the striker had silenced the home fans and his second strike was a thing of beauty. Captain Ryan Giggs capped of 45 minutes of dominant play with a stunning solo effort that he could have been scoring here in the mid-nineties.
Even with a side designed to give players a game under their belt, hence the inclusion of Michael Carrick alongside Ezekiel Fryers at centre-back and four forwards in the line-up, the Reds were a cut above their rivals from across the Pennines.
The game’s first opening fell to the hosts, and spawned a melee of desperate interventions in the United ranks. Tom Lees’ powerful header was blocked by Dimitar Berbatov, Ben Amos repelled the defender’s follow-up and Berbatov was again on hand to thwart Ross McCormack’s attempts to turn in the loose ball.
Around a game largely devoid of early inspiration, however, the most compelling contest was taking place off the field, as both factions of supporters waged choral war on one another. On the quarter-hour mark, only the visiting section was audible as United moved ahead in devastatingly simple circumstances.
Berbatov slid an inch-perfect pass into the path of Ji-sung Park, who had timed his run perfectly. The South Korean fed Owen, who needed only two touches: one with his right foot to tee up the shot; the second with his left foot to roll a finish in-between Aidan White’s legs and into the net, via the base of Andy Lonergan’s left-hand post.
Leeds’ response was gradual, as Adam Clayton thudded a decent effort into Amos’ midriff and Robert Snodgrass curled a shot just past the upright, but the hosts’ growing menace was soon nipped in the bud, and again in clinical fashion.
Mame Biram Diouf rolled off the attentions of Leigh Bromby and advanced down the right flank before slipping a neat pass into the path of Owen. Again, the striker’s predatory instincts kicked in. One touch to kill the ball, another to send it hurtling into Lonergan’s top corner with hardly any backlift.
Thereafter, Leeds’ defence creaked under pressure every time United picked up the ball in midfield, with Giggs and Park pulling the attacking strings and Owen and Berbatov dropping between the hosts’ lines to link play. Antonio Valencia slid horribly wide from the six-yard box, then forced Lonergan into a scrambling save as he tried to drill a low cross to the lurking Owen, but a third goal finally arrived in the final moments of the half.
Giggs took a short corner to Park, received the ball back and nutmegged Snodgrass with regal ease, before advancing into the box and stabbing a finish which nicked Luciano Becchio’s shin on its way past Lonergan. That was the veteran’s final contribution of the half, as he made way for Paul Pogba during the interval.
Leeds had no answer and were unable to muster a significant response with Owen close to completing a hat-trick with a chip that drifted wide, after latching onto a Berbatov through ball and displaying composure inside the box. Another threaded through ball by Berbatov released Federico Macheda but the Italian shot wide when offside in any case.
Amos was rarely tested but handled well under pressure from Ross McCormack as Sir Alex introduced fit-again Danny Welbeck and another debutant in Larnell Cole in place of Diouf and Macheda.
Clayton, a self-confessed City fan, was unable to grab a consolation he'd remember when his effort blazed over the top with United limiting the hosts to sporadic attacks and moments of danger. Even an injury to Fryers, who was flawless at the back, which led to Park and then Berbatov filling in for the ten men at the heart of the defence, seemed to add insult to injury to Simon Grayson's team. Ramon Nunez's late shot wide proved to be the final effort as the Reds eased through.
Read more...
Michael Owen is simply a natural goalscorer. Within 15 minutes of his first involvement of the campaign, the striker had silenced the home fans and his second strike was a thing of beauty. Captain Ryan Giggs capped of 45 minutes of dominant play with a stunning solo effort that he could have been scoring here in the mid-nineties.
Even with a side designed to give players a game under their belt, hence the inclusion of Michael Carrick alongside Ezekiel Fryers at centre-back and four forwards in the line-up, the Reds were a cut above their rivals from across the Pennines.
The game’s first opening fell to the hosts, and spawned a melee of desperate interventions in the United ranks. Tom Lees’ powerful header was blocked by Dimitar Berbatov, Ben Amos repelled the defender’s follow-up and Berbatov was again on hand to thwart Ross McCormack’s attempts to turn in the loose ball.
Around a game largely devoid of early inspiration, however, the most compelling contest was taking place off the field, as both factions of supporters waged choral war on one another. On the quarter-hour mark, only the visiting section was audible as United moved ahead in devastatingly simple circumstances.
Berbatov slid an inch-perfect pass into the path of Ji-sung Park, who had timed his run perfectly. The South Korean fed Owen, who needed only two touches: one with his right foot to tee up the shot; the second with his left foot to roll a finish in-between Aidan White’s legs and into the net, via the base of Andy Lonergan’s left-hand post.
Leeds’ response was gradual, as Adam Clayton thudded a decent effort into Amos’ midriff and Robert Snodgrass curled a shot just past the upright, but the hosts’ growing menace was soon nipped in the bud, and again in clinical fashion.
Mame Biram Diouf rolled off the attentions of Leigh Bromby and advanced down the right flank before slipping a neat pass into the path of Owen. Again, the striker’s predatory instincts kicked in. One touch to kill the ball, another to send it hurtling into Lonergan’s top corner with hardly any backlift.
Thereafter, Leeds’ defence creaked under pressure every time United picked up the ball in midfield, with Giggs and Park pulling the attacking strings and Owen and Berbatov dropping between the hosts’ lines to link play. Antonio Valencia slid horribly wide from the six-yard box, then forced Lonergan into a scrambling save as he tried to drill a low cross to the lurking Owen, but a third goal finally arrived in the final moments of the half.
Giggs took a short corner to Park, received the ball back and nutmegged Snodgrass with regal ease, before advancing into the box and stabbing a finish which nicked Luciano Becchio’s shin on its way past Lonergan. That was the veteran’s final contribution of the half, as he made way for Paul Pogba during the interval.
Leeds had no answer and were unable to muster a significant response with Owen close to completing a hat-trick with a chip that drifted wide, after latching onto a Berbatov through ball and displaying composure inside the box. Another threaded through ball by Berbatov released Federico Macheda but the Italian shot wide when offside in any case.
Amos was rarely tested but handled well under pressure from Ross McCormack as Sir Alex introduced fit-again Danny Welbeck and another debutant in Larnell Cole in place of Diouf and Macheda.
Clayton, a self-confessed City fan, was unable to grab a consolation he'd remember when his effort blazed over the top with United limiting the hosts to sporadic attacks and moments of danger. Even an injury to Fryers, who was flawless at the back, which led to Park and then Berbatov filling in for the ten men at the heart of the defence, seemed to add insult to injury to Simon Grayson's team. Ramon Nunez's late shot wide proved to be the final effort as the Reds eased through.
Read more...
Leeds United Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips
Leeds United [0 - 3] Manchester United
15' [0 - 1] M. Owen
32' [0 - 2] M. Owen
45' [0 - 3] R. Giggs
Read more...
15' [0 - 1] M. Owen
32' [0 - 2] M. Owen
45' [0 - 3] R. Giggs
Read more...
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Chelsea Match Result Report
An action-packed clash saw the champions see off Chelsea 3-1 thanks to goals from Chris Smalling, Nani and Wayne Rooney. Although Fernando Torries replied for the Londoners at the start of the second half, his dreadful miss late on only added to the ecstatic mood around the ground.Sir Alex's side could even afford a missed penalty from Rooney and several spurned chances en route to a fifth straight victory in the Barclays Premier League to go clear at the top of the table.
United were slower into their stride than in this fixture last term, and yet still led after only eight minutes. David De Gea had been called into drastic action to hook away a Ramires shot early on but the opener soon arrived, in front of the Stretford End.
Ashley Young was fouled and swung the free-kick over for Smalling to bury an unstoppable header for his first Barclays Premier League goal for the Reds. Replays showed the defender may have been marginally offside and the goal provoked a decent response from the visitors. Torres had already received a stray pass from Javier Hernandez when Anderson misplaced the ball straight to the Spaniard but, as Old Trafford held its breath, the £50million man dragged his shot wastefully wide of the far post.
De Gea caught a Bransilav Ivanovic header and saw Frank Lampard lash wide, after the England international midfielder rightly escaped a handball shout inside his own area. There was an almighty let-off on 26 minutes when Torres was onside and in the clear but squared the ball. Ramires stretched to force a wonderful, improbable stop out of De Gea with Daniel Sturridge waiting behind him for a simple tap-in.
The Reds' No1 gathered the resulting corner at the second attempt and also kept out an unmarked Sturridge while Torres sent an unconvincing overhead kick wide as Chelsea had few problems creating chances. But Nani showed them how to finish with a piece of individual magic, collecting Jonny Evans' diagonal pass, advancing on goal and fizzing a firecracker of a finish past Petr Cech's flailing right hand.
With a two-goal advantage, United continued to look menacing and, just before half-time, Rooney was involved early on in a move that saw Phil Jones maraud forward from centre-back. Eventually, John Terry's clearance bounced fortuitously off Nani and into the path of Rooney who calmly despatched a third.
This was never going to be a cakewalk for the champions and substitute Nicolas Anelka made an immediate impact at the start of the second half when setting up Torres for a clever finish over De Gea. Mata forced De Gea into action but United should have extended the lead when Nani broke onto a Rooney pass and, after seeing his shot come back off the bar, was fouled by Jose Bosingwa as he latched onto the rebound. Phil Dowd opted against carding the Portuguese defender and no punishment was meted out as Rooney slipped when taking the spot-kick, evoking memories of John Terry's miss in Moscow by United continued to press after Antonio Valencia and Michael Carrick were introduced but Jones headed a delicious cross by Young wide and Chelsea worked hard to get back into the game. Romelu Lukaku was denied a goal soon coming off the bench by a saving challenge from Patrice Evra and Torres fired a rebound over after De Gea parried his initial shot. But the woodwork saved the visitors when Rooney hit a post from an Evra cross and Javier Hernandez was hurt by Ashley Cole's challenge as he crashed the ball into the side-netting. Cole was booked but there was no penalty as the Mexican limped off.
The home fans were celebrating as though a goal had been scored when Torres rounded De Gea with seven minutes left but still displayed a lack of confidence when inexplicably shooting wide of the empty net with his left foot. There should have been another strike to enjoy in injury time but Rooney's unselfish pass was a little over-hit to Dimitar Berbatov, who could only send his shot against Cole on the line. Nonetheless, this was another impressive three points for the Reds, who continue to look unbeatable at Old Trafford. Chelsea's fans were chanting: 'We're going to win the league" in the dying seconds but it was more out of hope than expectation on this evidence. Read more...
United were slower into their stride than in this fixture last term, and yet still led after only eight minutes. David De Gea had been called into drastic action to hook away a Ramires shot early on but the opener soon arrived, in front of the Stretford End.
Ashley Young was fouled and swung the free-kick over for Smalling to bury an unstoppable header for his first Barclays Premier League goal for the Reds. Replays showed the defender may have been marginally offside and the goal provoked a decent response from the visitors. Torres had already received a stray pass from Javier Hernandez when Anderson misplaced the ball straight to the Spaniard but, as Old Trafford held its breath, the £50million man dragged his shot wastefully wide of the far post.
De Gea caught a Bransilav Ivanovic header and saw Frank Lampard lash wide, after the England international midfielder rightly escaped a handball shout inside his own area. There was an almighty let-off on 26 minutes when Torres was onside and in the clear but squared the ball. Ramires stretched to force a wonderful, improbable stop out of De Gea with Daniel Sturridge waiting behind him for a simple tap-in.
The Reds' No1 gathered the resulting corner at the second attempt and also kept out an unmarked Sturridge while Torres sent an unconvincing overhead kick wide as Chelsea had few problems creating chances. But Nani showed them how to finish with a piece of individual magic, collecting Jonny Evans' diagonal pass, advancing on goal and fizzing a firecracker of a finish past Petr Cech's flailing right hand.
With a two-goal advantage, United continued to look menacing and, just before half-time, Rooney was involved early on in a move that saw Phil Jones maraud forward from centre-back. Eventually, John Terry's clearance bounced fortuitously off Nani and into the path of Rooney who calmly despatched a third.
This was never going to be a cakewalk for the champions and substitute Nicolas Anelka made an immediate impact at the start of the second half when setting up Torres for a clever finish over De Gea. Mata forced De Gea into action but United should have extended the lead when Nani broke onto a Rooney pass and, after seeing his shot come back off the bar, was fouled by Jose Bosingwa as he latched onto the rebound. Phil Dowd opted against carding the Portuguese defender and no punishment was meted out as Rooney slipped when taking the spot-kick, evoking memories of John Terry's miss in Moscow by United continued to press after Antonio Valencia and Michael Carrick were introduced but Jones headed a delicious cross by Young wide and Chelsea worked hard to get back into the game. Romelu Lukaku was denied a goal soon coming off the bench by a saving challenge from Patrice Evra and Torres fired a rebound over after De Gea parried his initial shot. But the woodwork saved the visitors when Rooney hit a post from an Evra cross and Javier Hernandez was hurt by Ashley Cole's challenge as he crashed the ball into the side-netting. Cole was booked but there was no penalty as the Mexican limped off.
The home fans were celebrating as though a goal had been scored when Torres rounded De Gea with seven minutes left but still displayed a lack of confidence when inexplicably shooting wide of the empty net with his left foot. There should have been another strike to enjoy in injury time but Rooney's unselfish pass was a little over-hit to Dimitar Berbatov, who could only send his shot against Cole on the line. Nonetheless, this was another impressive three points for the Reds, who continue to look unbeatable at Old Trafford. Chelsea's fans were chanting: 'We're going to win the league" in the dying seconds but it was more out of hope than expectation on this evidence. Read more...
Manchester United Vs. Chelsea Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [3 - 1] Chelsea
8' [1 - 0] C. Smalling
37' [2 - 0] Nani
45' [3 - 0] W. Rooney
46' [3 - 1] F. Torres
1-0 Smalling 8' // Download
2-0 Nani 37' // Download
3-0 Rooney 45' // Download
3-1 Torrents 46' // Download
Penalty Missed - Wayne Rooney
Read more...
8' [1 - 0] C. Smalling
37' [2 - 0] Nani
45' [3 - 0] W. Rooney
46' [3 - 1] F. Torres
1-0 Smalling 8' // Download
2-0 Nani 37' // Download
3-0 Rooney 45' // Download
3-1 Torrents 46' // Download
Penalty Missed - Wayne Rooney
Read more...
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Benfica Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips
Benfica [1 - 1] Manchester United
24' [1 - 0] O. Cardozo
42' [1 - 1] R. Giggs
Highlights
24' [1 - 0] O. Cardozo
42' [1 - 1] R. Giggs
Highlights
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Bolton Vs. Manchester Untied Match Result Report
United's mesmerising start to the Barclays Premier League season continued with a five-goal stroll at Bolton's Reebok Stadium, as Javier Hernandez struck his first goals of the campaign and Wayne Rooney extended his fine form with a second successive hat-trick.
The Reds turned in a devastating showcase of finishing, bagging three goals inside the first half-hour and a further pair after the break, and also demonstrated promising defensive resolve in the face of a characteristically direct bombardment from the hosts.
The only sour note of the afternoon was a derivative of the Trotters' trademark vigour, as Tom Cleverley left the Reebok Stadium on crutches after a heavy challenge from Bolton skipper Kevin Davies, having apparently suffered a damaged ankle.
Hitherto, Sir Alex Ferguson had enjoyed good news with injuries after the recent international break, and made only minimal changes to the line-up which started last month's romp against Arsenal. Danny Welbeck, who suffered a hamstring strain against the Gunners, was replaced by Hernandez, while Rio Ferdinand returned at the expense of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones shunted over to right-back.
As had been the case in the Reds' opening three league games, United began in proactive fashion. Indeed, it took the visitors just five minutes to forge ahead. As a United attack built on the right wing, with Rooney releasing Nani, Chicharito outwitted Gary Cahill by shaping to move to the near post, feinting to the back and then sprinted forward just in time to redirect Nani’s centre past the sprawling Jussi Jaaskelainen.
United had actually taken the lead without a full compliment of players. At the time of the goal, Cleverley was receiving treatment for an ankle injury after a poor challenge from Davies. Bolton had their best opening of the half while Cleverley was en route to the dressing room, but Rooney was on hand to hack Chris Eagles’ volley off the line after a goalmouth scramble. Michael Carrick was duly introduced to restore equality in personnel.
Bolton skipper Davies was booked for a lunging challenge on Evra and Ivan Klasnic brought a spectacular save from De Gea with a stinging effort from the edge of the box, but the hosts’ defiance was soon doused by a devastating spell of attacking from United.
Jones took a quick throw-in and, upon receiving the ball straight back from Chicharito, arced an unplayable cross into the heart of the Bolton area, where the onrushing Rooney needed only brush the ball with the studs of his right boot to double United’s lead.
Jones was the epicentre of the Reds’ celebratory huddle, and the makeshift right-back was again the hub of joy five minutes later. Having swapped passes with Nani, the marauding youngster strode through the Bolton midfield and defence and, although his shot was saved by Jaaskelainen, Rooney carefully tucked the rebound between the desperate lunges of Cahill and Dedryck Boyata to heap further misery on the hosts.
Fresh from the eight-goal salute to Arsenal, another attacking frenzy was underway. Hernandez appeared to have turned in United’s fourth just two minutes later, but his neat finish applied to a Nani cross was correctly rendered illegal by an assistant’s flag.
The game lulled for the final third of the half, as rampant visitors and shell-shocked hosts drew breath. Kevin Davies swiped air rather than ball after a decent Martin Petrov cross and Nani fired into the side-netting from close-range, but the interval came with United exuding comfort.
Were any reminder required that Bolton can never be taken lightly, especially at home, it was served by Klasnic within two minutes of the restart. Fortunately, De Gea had the smart reflexes and handling to field the Croatian's low snapshot.
At the opposite end, Jaaskelainen did well to flick Anderson's wicked free-kick wide of the post, but relied on his defenders to dig him out of a hole after Hernandez had stolen possession outside the area. The Mexican didn't have to wait long, however, to double his tally, sliding home from close range after Michael Carrick's shot had rolled through a thicket of bodies.
Bolton's response to the fourth goal was positive, as Nigel Reo-Coker crashed a shot against De Gea's crossbar, before both sides rang the changes. Kevin Davies made way for David N'gog and Darren Pratley replaced ex-Red Chris Eagles for the hosts, while Sir Alex introduced Ryan Giggs and Smalling at the expense of Ashley Young and the limping Evans.
The amendments did little to stifle the flow of the game, as United popped passes around with abandon. Nor did it stem the tide of goals, as Rooney smashed home his second successive hat-trick. A raking ball from Giggs found Nani, who rolled the ball across the edge of the area for Rooney to curl an unstoppable shot into Jaaskelainen's bottom right-hand corner.
Hat-trick secured, Rooney soon attempted to serve up another treble for Chicharito, but his centre was narrowly behind the Mexican striker. Late on, Chicharito was played in by Nani, but unselfishly attempted to square for the excellent Anderson, who couldn't quite convert into the gaping goal.
No matter, five more than sufficed to prolong the early-season excitement surrounding this United team. There's enough experience in the Reds' ranks to avoid getting giddy just over a week into September, but the verve and swagger about this bunch of twinkling talents renders caution harder by the week. Read more...
The Reds turned in a devastating showcase of finishing, bagging three goals inside the first half-hour and a further pair after the break, and also demonstrated promising defensive resolve in the face of a characteristically direct bombardment from the hosts.
The only sour note of the afternoon was a derivative of the Trotters' trademark vigour, as Tom Cleverley left the Reebok Stadium on crutches after a heavy challenge from Bolton skipper Kevin Davies, having apparently suffered a damaged ankle.
Hitherto, Sir Alex Ferguson had enjoyed good news with injuries after the recent international break, and made only minimal changes to the line-up which started last month's romp against Arsenal. Danny Welbeck, who suffered a hamstring strain against the Gunners, was replaced by Hernandez, while Rio Ferdinand returned at the expense of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones shunted over to right-back.
As had been the case in the Reds' opening three league games, United began in proactive fashion. Indeed, it took the visitors just five minutes to forge ahead. As a United attack built on the right wing, with Rooney releasing Nani, Chicharito outwitted Gary Cahill by shaping to move to the near post, feinting to the back and then sprinted forward just in time to redirect Nani’s centre past the sprawling Jussi Jaaskelainen.
United had actually taken the lead without a full compliment of players. At the time of the goal, Cleverley was receiving treatment for an ankle injury after a poor challenge from Davies. Bolton had their best opening of the half while Cleverley was en route to the dressing room, but Rooney was on hand to hack Chris Eagles’ volley off the line after a goalmouth scramble. Michael Carrick was duly introduced to restore equality in personnel.
Bolton skipper Davies was booked for a lunging challenge on Evra and Ivan Klasnic brought a spectacular save from De Gea with a stinging effort from the edge of the box, but the hosts’ defiance was soon doused by a devastating spell of attacking from United.
Jones took a quick throw-in and, upon receiving the ball straight back from Chicharito, arced an unplayable cross into the heart of the Bolton area, where the onrushing Rooney needed only brush the ball with the studs of his right boot to double United’s lead.
Jones was the epicentre of the Reds’ celebratory huddle, and the makeshift right-back was again the hub of joy five minutes later. Having swapped passes with Nani, the marauding youngster strode through the Bolton midfield and defence and, although his shot was saved by Jaaskelainen, Rooney carefully tucked the rebound between the desperate lunges of Cahill and Dedryck Boyata to heap further misery on the hosts.
Fresh from the eight-goal salute to Arsenal, another attacking frenzy was underway. Hernandez appeared to have turned in United’s fourth just two minutes later, but his neat finish applied to a Nani cross was correctly rendered illegal by an assistant’s flag.
The game lulled for the final third of the half, as rampant visitors and shell-shocked hosts drew breath. Kevin Davies swiped air rather than ball after a decent Martin Petrov cross and Nani fired into the side-netting from close-range, but the interval came with United exuding comfort.
Were any reminder required that Bolton can never be taken lightly, especially at home, it was served by Klasnic within two minutes of the restart. Fortunately, De Gea had the smart reflexes and handling to field the Croatian's low snapshot.
At the opposite end, Jaaskelainen did well to flick Anderson's wicked free-kick wide of the post, but relied on his defenders to dig him out of a hole after Hernandez had stolen possession outside the area. The Mexican didn't have to wait long, however, to double his tally, sliding home from close range after Michael Carrick's shot had rolled through a thicket of bodies.
Bolton's response to the fourth goal was positive, as Nigel Reo-Coker crashed a shot against De Gea's crossbar, before both sides rang the changes. Kevin Davies made way for David N'gog and Darren Pratley replaced ex-Red Chris Eagles for the hosts, while Sir Alex introduced Ryan Giggs and Smalling at the expense of Ashley Young and the limping Evans.
The amendments did little to stifle the flow of the game, as United popped passes around with abandon. Nor did it stem the tide of goals, as Rooney smashed home his second successive hat-trick. A raking ball from Giggs found Nani, who rolled the ball across the edge of the area for Rooney to curl an unstoppable shot into Jaaskelainen's bottom right-hand corner.
Hat-trick secured, Rooney soon attempted to serve up another treble for Chicharito, but his centre was narrowly behind the Mexican striker. Late on, Chicharito was played in by Nani, but unselfishly attempted to square for the excellent Anderson, who couldn't quite convert into the gaping goal.
No matter, five more than sufficed to prolong the early-season excitement surrounding this United team. There's enough experience in the Reds' ranks to avoid getting giddy just over a week into September, but the verve and swagger about this bunch of twinkling talents renders caution harder by the week. Read more...
Bolton Vs. Manchester Untied Highlights Video Clips
Bolton [0 - 5] Manchester Untied
5' [0 - 1] J. Hernandez
20' [0 - 2] W. Rooney
25' [0 - 3] W. Rooney
59' [0 - 4] J. Hernandez
68' [0 - 5] W. Rooney
0-1 Hernandez 5'
0-2 Rooney 20'
0-3 Rooney 25'
0-4 Hernandez 59'
0-5 Rooney 68'
Read more...
5' [0 - 1] J. Hernandez
20' [0 - 2] W. Rooney
25' [0 - 3] W. Rooney
59' [0 - 4] J. Hernandez
68' [0 - 5] W. Rooney
0-1 Hernandez 5'
0-2 Rooney 20'
0-3 Rooney 25'
0-4 Hernandez 59'
0-5 Rooney 68'
Read more...
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Arsenal Match Result Report
While the blue half of Manchester looked set to dominate the footballing agenda with a stunning 5-1 win at Spurs, United went goal crazy against a depleted Arsenal side to steal the headlines and hammer home a warning to Roberto Mancini's team and the rest of the Barclays Premier League.
In a game that had everything - a missed penalty, a converted spot-kick, a hat-trick for Wayne Rooney, a red card and 10 goals, United simply romped home 8-2.
Danny Welbeck, Ashley Young (2), Nani and sub Ji-sung Park also hit the net with David De Gea superbly saving a penalty when the lead was a slender one. Theo Walcott and Robin van Persie replied for the crestfallen Gunners, who had Carl Jenkinson sent off in the second half.
United made their intentions clear from the start with Welbeck charging down Wojciech Szczesny and looking a real threat. Tom Cleverley and Welbeck shot wide and some of the Reds' passing was mesmeric.
So it was no surprise when the hesitant visiting defence failed to deal with Anderson's clever lofted pass and Welbeck steered a looping header over Szczesny for the opener. Chris Smalling dragged wide after setting up the chance for himself beautifully but, against the run of play, Arsenal were awarded a penalty when Jonny Evans pulled at Walcott's shoulder. De Gea dived to his right to push van Persie's spot-kick around the post and earn the congratulations of his team-mates. And, from United's next attack, Young collected a header out by Armand Traore and bent an inch-perfect curler past Szczesny's despairing fingertips for 2-0.
De Gea had to be alert to make a double save from Andriy Arshavin and van Persie but the champions carried the greater threat with Welbeck diving to head Rooney's cross off target. A hamstring injury cruelly ruined the young striker's afternoon, and Arshavin, who was very fortunate to still be on the pitch after a foul on Young when already booked, flashed a warning shot over the bar at the other end.
Jenkinson was also lucky to avoid a red card when hauling Young down as he sprinted through on goal but Rooney ensured his own justice was meted out by rolling the free-kick for Young to trap and then sweeping past Szczesny with the power on the shot too much for the Polish keeper.
Rooney showed the confidence flowing through the team when testing Szczesny from his own half but there was real complacency seconds before the interval to allow Tomas Rosicky to feed Walcott, whose drive from an angle whistled through De Gea's legs for 3-1.
It was a message that the job was still far from done, and one that was taken on board as Sir Alex's side turned up the heat again in the second half. Szczesny saved well from Young and Nani chipped wastefully off target as the hosts pressed but the Gunners responded with De Gea superbly stopping a van Persie volley and Arshavin firing wide when Smalling was caught up the pitch.
Tom Cleverley shot weakly at Szczesny after a brilliant one-two with Young and Nani failed to convert a cross from the former Aston Villa winger but the dam broke again when Rooney repeated his free-kick feat in the first half by whipping home for 4-1 and becoming United's all-time record scorer in the Premier League.
Smelling blood, Smalling tore forward and ignored Phil Jones on the overlap to instead feed Rooney, who prodded through for Nani to net with the most outrageous of cheeky finishes. Nani then made way, along with Anderson, for Ryan Giggs and Park but the relentless attacking continued.
Rooney wedged a golf-like shot of sheer class against an upright before Park exchanged passes with Young to bury a low finish into the corner of the net. Van Persie restored a semblance of pride with emphatic finish after being played onside by Jones but United simply stepped up a gear again.
Jenkinson received a second yellow card for bundling Javier Hernandez over when he was through on goal and there were more illegal tactics used to halt the red tidal wave when Walcott tripped Patrice Evra inside the box. Rooney stepped up to seal his hat-trick with a confident spot-kick and it got even worse for the North Londoners when Young curled in to add his second from a Giggs pass.
Park shot over in stoppage time but enough damage had been inflicted to the Gunners' battered pride as the home fans rejoiced on a day to remember at Old Trafford. Read more...
In a game that had everything - a missed penalty, a converted spot-kick, a hat-trick for Wayne Rooney, a red card and 10 goals, United simply romped home 8-2.
Danny Welbeck, Ashley Young (2), Nani and sub Ji-sung Park also hit the net with David De Gea superbly saving a penalty when the lead was a slender one. Theo Walcott and Robin van Persie replied for the crestfallen Gunners, who had Carl Jenkinson sent off in the second half.
United made their intentions clear from the start with Welbeck charging down Wojciech Szczesny and looking a real threat. Tom Cleverley and Welbeck shot wide and some of the Reds' passing was mesmeric.
So it was no surprise when the hesitant visiting defence failed to deal with Anderson's clever lofted pass and Welbeck steered a looping header over Szczesny for the opener. Chris Smalling dragged wide after setting up the chance for himself beautifully but, against the run of play, Arsenal were awarded a penalty when Jonny Evans pulled at Walcott's shoulder. De Gea dived to his right to push van Persie's spot-kick around the post and earn the congratulations of his team-mates. And, from United's next attack, Young collected a header out by Armand Traore and bent an inch-perfect curler past Szczesny's despairing fingertips for 2-0.
De Gea had to be alert to make a double save from Andriy Arshavin and van Persie but the champions carried the greater threat with Welbeck diving to head Rooney's cross off target. A hamstring injury cruelly ruined the young striker's afternoon, and Arshavin, who was very fortunate to still be on the pitch after a foul on Young when already booked, flashed a warning shot over the bar at the other end.
Jenkinson was also lucky to avoid a red card when hauling Young down as he sprinted through on goal but Rooney ensured his own justice was meted out by rolling the free-kick for Young to trap and then sweeping past Szczesny with the power on the shot too much for the Polish keeper.
Rooney showed the confidence flowing through the team when testing Szczesny from his own half but there was real complacency seconds before the interval to allow Tomas Rosicky to feed Walcott, whose drive from an angle whistled through De Gea's legs for 3-1.
It was a message that the job was still far from done, and one that was taken on board as Sir Alex's side turned up the heat again in the second half. Szczesny saved well from Young and Nani chipped wastefully off target as the hosts pressed but the Gunners responded with De Gea superbly stopping a van Persie volley and Arshavin firing wide when Smalling was caught up the pitch.
Tom Cleverley shot weakly at Szczesny after a brilliant one-two with Young and Nani failed to convert a cross from the former Aston Villa winger but the dam broke again when Rooney repeated his free-kick feat in the first half by whipping home for 4-1 and becoming United's all-time record scorer in the Premier League.
Smelling blood, Smalling tore forward and ignored Phil Jones on the overlap to instead feed Rooney, who prodded through for Nani to net with the most outrageous of cheeky finishes. Nani then made way, along with Anderson, for Ryan Giggs and Park but the relentless attacking continued.
Rooney wedged a golf-like shot of sheer class against an upright before Park exchanged passes with Young to bury a low finish into the corner of the net. Van Persie restored a semblance of pride with emphatic finish after being played onside by Jones but United simply stepped up a gear again.
Jenkinson received a second yellow card for bundling Javier Hernandez over when he was through on goal and there were more illegal tactics used to halt the red tidal wave when Walcott tripped Patrice Evra inside the box. Rooney stepped up to seal his hat-trick with a confident spot-kick and it got even worse for the North Londoners when Young curled in to add his second from a Giggs pass.
Park shot over in stoppage time but enough damage had been inflicted to the Gunners' battered pride as the home fans rejoiced on a day to remember at Old Trafford. Read more...
Manchester United Vs. Arsenal Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [8 - 2] Arsenal
22' [1 - 0] D. Welbeck
28' [2 - 0] A. Young
41' [3 - 0] W. Rooney
45' [3 - 1] T. Walcott
64' [4 - 1] W. Rooney
67' [5 - 1] Nani
70' [6 - 1] J. Park
74' [6 - 2] R.v. Persie
82' [7 - 2] W. Rooney (pen.)
90' [8 - 2] A. Young
1-0 Wellbeck 22'
2-0 Ashley Young 28'
3-0 Wayne Rooney 41'
3-1 Walcott 47'
4-1 Wayne Rooney 64'
5-1 Nani 67'
6-1 Park 70'
6-2 van Persie 74'
7-2 Wayne Rooney 81' (PEN)
8-2 Ashley Young 90'
Read more...
22' [1 - 0] D. Welbeck
28' [2 - 0] A. Young
41' [3 - 0] W. Rooney
45' [3 - 1] T. Walcott
64' [4 - 1] W. Rooney
67' [5 - 1] Nani
70' [6 - 1] J. Park
74' [6 - 2] R.v. Persie
82' [7 - 2] W. Rooney (pen.)
90' [8 - 2] A. Young
1-0 Wellbeck 22'
2-0 Ashley Young 28'
3-0 Wayne Rooney 41'
3-1 Walcott 47'
4-1 Wayne Rooney 64'
5-1 Nani 67'
6-1 Park 70'
6-2 van Persie 74'
7-2 Wayne Rooney 81' (PEN)
8-2 Ashley Young 90'
Read more...
Sunday, August 14, 2011
West Bromwich Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report
The champions kicked off the Barclays Premier League season with a hard-fought victory at West Brom, repeating last season's 2-1 success thanks to a strike from Wayne Rooney and an own-goal by Steven Reid.
Rooney drilled in an early opener but debutant Shane Long shot past David De Gea for a surprise equaliser and it took Young, on his first league appearance for the Reds, to set up the winner with nine minutes left.
United made an impressive statement of intent from the first whistle as the bold, youthful line-up selected by Sir Alex posted a positive start. Although Paul Scharner managed the first effort of note, it was all United and there was no surprise when Wayne Rooney drew first blood - as he did in this fixture last term.
Rooney expertly flicked a Fabio pass out to Young before collecting the return ball and curling a left-footed finish beyond the reach of Ben Foster in the 13th minute. The Reds were in control with Rooney blasting wide after being afforded too much space and Nani casually lifting a finish wastefully over the top following good approach work by Rooney and Danny Welbeck.
Nani again shot too high when Foster could only pat down a Young corner but Albion worked their way back into the game ominously. De Gea made a flying stop to thwart Scharner, who had stormed onto Long's lay-off but, two minutes later, the Spanish keeper coped less effectively when Long decided to have a crack himself. The Irishman fired across De Gea when Chris Smalling was unable to prevent the shot from the left-hand side of the box.
Conceding an equaliser was harsh on United but the defence seemed to lose some concentration as Fabio's panicky header away allowed Chris Brunt to volley over the bar. And De Gea had to claw away a Somen Tchoyi cross that deflected off Nemanja Vidic and worryingly looped goalwards as half-time approached.
The second period became less eventful and there was a blow when captain Vidic finally made away after failing to shrug off a knock. United failed to carry any significant threat with Rooney glancing a header wide from a rare half-chance and Nani's free-kick coming to nothing after Young was felled on the edge of the box by Brunt.
Dimitar Berbatov was introduced in a bid to add more of a cutting edge but it was Young who continued to provide much of the attacking thrust. The former Aston Villa winger's dipping shot drifted just wide of the far post with Foster flailing at thin air.
Nani sent an awkward header wide from Fabio's left-wing cross and the visitors' attempts to create any sustained pressure were affected when another injury disrupted the defence - with Ferdinand having to be replaced by Phil Jones, leaving a very youthful back-five for the final quarter of an hour.
Such setbacks would have a major detrimental impact on lesser teams but the champions are made of sterner stuff and snatched the winner with nine minutes left. Berbatov played the ball off to Young, who showed real intent to fly down the left past Brunt and see his cross deflect off Tamas and, ultimately, Reid before nestling in the back of the net.
Tchoyi lashed one effort off target and De Gea safely fielded a Brunt effort as the Reds held out - to their great credit - to start the defence of the title with a valuable away win. Read more...
Rooney drilled in an early opener but debutant Shane Long shot past David De Gea for a surprise equaliser and it took Young, on his first league appearance for the Reds, to set up the winner with nine minutes left.
United made an impressive statement of intent from the first whistle as the bold, youthful line-up selected by Sir Alex posted a positive start. Although Paul Scharner managed the first effort of note, it was all United and there was no surprise when Wayne Rooney drew first blood - as he did in this fixture last term.
Rooney expertly flicked a Fabio pass out to Young before collecting the return ball and curling a left-footed finish beyond the reach of Ben Foster in the 13th minute. The Reds were in control with Rooney blasting wide after being afforded too much space and Nani casually lifting a finish wastefully over the top following good approach work by Rooney and Danny Welbeck.
Nani again shot too high when Foster could only pat down a Young corner but Albion worked their way back into the game ominously. De Gea made a flying stop to thwart Scharner, who had stormed onto Long's lay-off but, two minutes later, the Spanish keeper coped less effectively when Long decided to have a crack himself. The Irishman fired across De Gea when Chris Smalling was unable to prevent the shot from the left-hand side of the box.
Conceding an equaliser was harsh on United but the defence seemed to lose some concentration as Fabio's panicky header away allowed Chris Brunt to volley over the bar. And De Gea had to claw away a Somen Tchoyi cross that deflected off Nemanja Vidic and worryingly looped goalwards as half-time approached.
The second period became less eventful and there was a blow when captain Vidic finally made away after failing to shrug off a knock. United failed to carry any significant threat with Rooney glancing a header wide from a rare half-chance and Nani's free-kick coming to nothing after Young was felled on the edge of the box by Brunt.
Dimitar Berbatov was introduced in a bid to add more of a cutting edge but it was Young who continued to provide much of the attacking thrust. The former Aston Villa winger's dipping shot drifted just wide of the far post with Foster flailing at thin air.
Nani sent an awkward header wide from Fabio's left-wing cross and the visitors' attempts to create any sustained pressure were affected when another injury disrupted the defence - with Ferdinand having to be replaced by Phil Jones, leaving a very youthful back-five for the final quarter of an hour.
Such setbacks would have a major detrimental impact on lesser teams but the champions are made of sterner stuff and snatched the winner with nine minutes left. Berbatov played the ball off to Young, who showed real intent to fly down the left past Brunt and see his cross deflect off Tamas and, ultimately, Reid before nestling in the back of the net.
Tchoyi lashed one effort off target and De Gea safely fielded a Brunt effort as the Reds held out - to their great credit - to start the defence of the title with a valuable away win. Read more...
West Bromwich Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips
West Bromwich [1 - 2] Manchester United
13' [0 - 1] W. Rooney
37' [1 - 1] S. Long
81' [1 - 2] S. Reid (o.g.)
0-1 Rooney 13'
1-1 Long 37'
S. Reid (o.g.) 81'
Read more...
13' [0 - 1] W. Rooney
37' [1 - 1] S. Long
81' [1 - 2] S. Reid (o.g.)
0-1 Rooney 13'
1-1 Long 37'
S. Reid (o.g.) 81'
Read more...
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Blackpool Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [4 - 2] Blackpool
21' [1 - 0] J. Park
40' [1 - 1] C. Adam
57' [1 - 2] G. Taylor-Fletcher
62' [2 - 2] Anderson
74' [3 - 2] I. Evatt (o.g.)
81' [4 - 2] M. Owen
Read more...
21' [1 - 0] J. Park
40' [1 - 1] C. Adam
57' [1 - 2] G. Taylor-Fletcher
62' [2 - 2] Anderson
74' [3 - 2] I. Evatt (o.g.)
81' [4 - 2] M. Owen
Read more...
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Blackburn Rovers Vs. Manchester United Match Report Result
Drink it in. Soak it up. Bellow it from the rooftops. Manchester United are the champions of England, now more than anyone. More than ever, United rule all others in the land.
Wayne Rooney’s second-half penalty secured the title-winning point in a hard-fought encounter with Blackburn at Ewood Park, but even when it comes to making history, the Reds insist on going about it the hard way.
A 19th domestic crown was only sealed by Rooney’s 73rd minute spot-kick after Brett Emerton had fired Rovers ahead, and the hosts might have established a two-goal lead at Ewood Park when Martin Olsson headed against Tomasz Kuszczak’s post.
United had started the afternoon brightly. As the prospect of becoming champions dangled before them, the visitors started with purpose; popping passes around and bossing possession. Less than four minutes had passed when the first chance arrived, but Nani could only thump a header against Paul Robinson’s crossbar from Rooney’s tantalising cross.
Blackburn seldom held the ball inside the first 15 minutes, but they might have taken the lead when Christopher Samba sliced wastefully over the bar from Junior Hoilett’s pull-back, and then did forge ahead in sloppy circumstances through Emerton.
The Australian’s chip was touched away by Kuszczak, but Olsson retrieved the ball before it crossed the byline, exchanged passes with Hoilett and picked out Emerton at the back post to steer a fine finish back across goal.
Though the Darwen End had resounded with a choral onslaught from the travelling support, nerves were suddenly jangling. The hosts, in stark contrast, were galvanised. Steve Kean’s side charged into challenges, doubled up on United’s wingers and packed the penalty area, with young Phil Jones in excellent form alongside Samba.
Carving open the Rovers defence was no easy task. Chicharito swivelled and fired in a left-footed effort which Robinson plunged to turn around the post, but the pepped-up hosts hit back when Olsson skewed a volley wide from Michel Salgado’s deep cross. United were also given a let-off when Kuszczak’s clearance was charged down by Hoilett and ricocheted wide.
The Reds should have nabbed a leveller just before the interval after excellent interplay by Rooney and Chicharito. As the Mexican bore down on goal he was robbed by a fine sliding challenge from Phil Jones, but Nani steered the inviting loose ball over the crossbar.
The opening 15 minutes of the second period continued in a finely-balanced fashion. Blackburn were keen to pressure Kuszczak with high balls, while United’s approach play carried plenty of menace, without a telling final ball. Nani’s powerful shot was deflected wide by Samba and Jones blocked Ryan Giggs’ close-range effort, before Paul Scholes was introduced at the expense of Fabio.
That re-jig meant another shift for Valencia as an auxiliary right-back, and the Ecuadorian was quickly under pressure as Olsson rose to meet Emerton’s cross, but the Norwegian could only nod against Kuszczak’s post from close range.
Having glanced over the precipice, United were suddenly hauled back from the brink as Chicharito raced onto Giggs’ pass, touched the ball past Robinson and tumbled under the goalkeeper’s challenge. Dogged by vehement implorations from both sides, referee Phil Dowd sought the opinion of his linesman before awarding the spot-kick.
Despite the epic delay prompted by the hosts’ protests, Rooney held his nerve and crashed an unstoppable penalty high into Robinson’s right-hand corner to prompt scenes of utter delirium in the Darwen End.
“We shall not be moved,” cried the 8,000 travelling supporters, and their defiance might have risen further when Rooney whipped in a magnificent right-wing cross which begged to be converted, but Nani could only divert the ball just off-target.
A point was enough for United, and a share of the spoils also suited the hosts, who continue to look over their shoulder as an engaging relegation battle rages on. With a draw mutually beneficial, the game descended into a game of keep-ball for the final 15 minutes.
That time, plus three added minutes, zipped by before referee Dowd signalled the end of the game and the title race, and marked history for the now 19-times champions. The message was perfectly summed up by a banner unfurled in the away support which simply read: “Top of the perch”. Rarely has the view looked so good. Read more...
Wayne Rooney’s second-half penalty secured the title-winning point in a hard-fought encounter with Blackburn at Ewood Park, but even when it comes to making history, the Reds insist on going about it the hard way.
A 19th domestic crown was only sealed by Rooney’s 73rd minute spot-kick after Brett Emerton had fired Rovers ahead, and the hosts might have established a two-goal lead at Ewood Park when Martin Olsson headed against Tomasz Kuszczak’s post.
United had started the afternoon brightly. As the prospect of becoming champions dangled before them, the visitors started with purpose; popping passes around and bossing possession. Less than four minutes had passed when the first chance arrived, but Nani could only thump a header against Paul Robinson’s crossbar from Rooney’s tantalising cross.
Blackburn seldom held the ball inside the first 15 minutes, but they might have taken the lead when Christopher Samba sliced wastefully over the bar from Junior Hoilett’s pull-back, and then did forge ahead in sloppy circumstances through Emerton.
The Australian’s chip was touched away by Kuszczak, but Olsson retrieved the ball before it crossed the byline, exchanged passes with Hoilett and picked out Emerton at the back post to steer a fine finish back across goal.
Though the Darwen End had resounded with a choral onslaught from the travelling support, nerves were suddenly jangling. The hosts, in stark contrast, were galvanised. Steve Kean’s side charged into challenges, doubled up on United’s wingers and packed the penalty area, with young Phil Jones in excellent form alongside Samba.
Carving open the Rovers defence was no easy task. Chicharito swivelled and fired in a left-footed effort which Robinson plunged to turn around the post, but the pepped-up hosts hit back when Olsson skewed a volley wide from Michel Salgado’s deep cross. United were also given a let-off when Kuszczak’s clearance was charged down by Hoilett and ricocheted wide.
The Reds should have nabbed a leveller just before the interval after excellent interplay by Rooney and Chicharito. As the Mexican bore down on goal he was robbed by a fine sliding challenge from Phil Jones, but Nani steered the inviting loose ball over the crossbar.
The opening 15 minutes of the second period continued in a finely-balanced fashion. Blackburn were keen to pressure Kuszczak with high balls, while United’s approach play carried plenty of menace, without a telling final ball. Nani’s powerful shot was deflected wide by Samba and Jones blocked Ryan Giggs’ close-range effort, before Paul Scholes was introduced at the expense of Fabio.
That re-jig meant another shift for Valencia as an auxiliary right-back, and the Ecuadorian was quickly under pressure as Olsson rose to meet Emerton’s cross, but the Norwegian could only nod against Kuszczak’s post from close range.
Having glanced over the precipice, United were suddenly hauled back from the brink as Chicharito raced onto Giggs’ pass, touched the ball past Robinson and tumbled under the goalkeeper’s challenge. Dogged by vehement implorations from both sides, referee Phil Dowd sought the opinion of his linesman before awarding the spot-kick.
Despite the epic delay prompted by the hosts’ protests, Rooney held his nerve and crashed an unstoppable penalty high into Robinson’s right-hand corner to prompt scenes of utter delirium in the Darwen End.
“We shall not be moved,” cried the 8,000 travelling supporters, and their defiance might have risen further when Rooney whipped in a magnificent right-wing cross which begged to be converted, but Nani could only divert the ball just off-target.
A point was enough for United, and a share of the spoils also suited the hosts, who continue to look over their shoulder as an engaging relegation battle rages on. With a draw mutually beneficial, the game descended into a game of keep-ball for the final 15 minutes.
That time, plus three added minutes, zipped by before referee Dowd signalled the end of the game and the title race, and marked history for the now 19-times champions. The message was perfectly summed up by a banner unfurled in the away support which simply read: “Top of the perch”. Rarely has the view looked so good. Read more...
Blackburn Rovers Vs. Manchester United Highlights Video Clips
Blackburn Rovers [1 - 1] Manchester United
20' [1 - 0] B. Emerton
73' [1 - 1] M. Salgado
szólj hozzá: B1-1M Read more...
20' [1 - 0] B. Emerton
73' [1 - 1] M. Salgado
szólj hozzá: B1-1M Read more...
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Chelsea Match Report Result
United stand tantalisingly close to a record 19th title after a magnificent 2-1 victory over closest rivals Chelsea at a jubilant Old Trafford.
Early goals from Javier Hernandez (inside the first minute) and Nemanja Vidic set Sir Alex Ferguson's side on the way to a famous win. Despite Frank Lampard's second-half effort, the Reds thoroughly deserved the three points that leaves the club only one point away from further glory.
The Reds took just 37 seconds to lift the roof off Old Trafford with incisive passes by Ryan Giggs and Ji-sung Park seeing Hernandez through on goal as a stretching David Luiz failed to intercept the Korean's through-ball. Chicharito nervelessly slipped his finish wide of Petr Cech to hand United the perfect start.
In a whirlwind opening spell, Wayne Rooney let fly from another Park pass to bring the best out of the diving Cech and Hernandez was unable to reach a teasing Park centre that evaded the shaky Luiz.
Another fine move at blistering speed saw Rooney collect a return ball from Antonio Valencia, only to pull his finish just wide. Chelsea finally mustered a couple of chances of their own, with Edwin van der Sar worked by Florent Malouda after fisting away a Didider Drogba header before Salomon Kalou hit a tame effort straight at the Dutch keeper.
But Sir Alex's men doubled their lead in the 23rd minute when Park's wicked drive from an angle forced a corner from Cech's save. From the flag-kick, Giggs teased Kalou and centred invitingly for an outnumbered Vidic to plunder a downward header into the net. Cue incredible celebrations.
Chelsea's response was instant, with Van der Sar palming away a Kalou header and Branislav Ivanovic only finding the side-netting from the rebound. Van der Sar became more prominent as Luiz moved forward with menace to test the veteran, who then dived to his left to frustrate Didier Drogba from a free-kick.
Another cheaply-awarded foul allowed Drogba a second set-piece attempt before there was controversy when Ivanovic escaped a second booking for a blatant foul on Rooney.
Undeterred, United finished the half strongest. John Obi Mikel prodded behind following a Valencia one-two with Rooney and the Ecuadorian winger smashed over the top following neat play by Giggs and Fabio.
Malouda had the first real effort of the second period but Van der Sar watched it sail wide before another big decision went against United. Lampard clearly handled Valencia's cross inside the area but Howard Webb waved play on as everybody anticipated the official pointing to the spot.
Carlo Ancelotti introduced Fernando Torres to his attack just past the hour mark as the Blues searched for a route back into the game, and the title race.
Valencia had another penalty shout rejected after tussling with John Terry inside the box following another rapid break but, this time, it was probably the correct decision from referee Webb.
Van der Sar had to be alert to field a long-range drive by substitute Alex and Drogba was penalised for handball when delivering a shot wide of the far post as some pressure started to build on the home goal.
United did concede when Ivanovic climbed to head a Ramires cross goalwards and Lampard stabbed home from close range with just over 20 minutes remaining. It set up a nervous finale.
Rooney almost restored the two-goal lead immediately but was off-balance when trying to steer in a Hernandez cut-back and Alex cleared superbly off the line to avoid a sense of deja vu for the visitors after the Champions League tie at Old Trafford.
United defenders had to put their bodies on the line in a bid to preserve the now slender advantage, with Fabio, Rio Ferdinand and substitute Jonny Evans all requiring treatment in the aftermath of one attack.
It was tight and tense but Rooney could have scored three times in the space of a minute, only to fail to find the finishing touch that would have relaxed the home fans. Then Hernandez headed over from close range from Valencia's driven centre with four minutes left as the Reds refused to do things the easy way.
Hearts were in mouths when Torres lined up a shot inside the box with time running out, but the £50million man could only drag it off-target, much to palpable relief. United stand on the brink of yet another title. Read more...
Early goals from Javier Hernandez (inside the first minute) and Nemanja Vidic set Sir Alex Ferguson's side on the way to a famous win. Despite Frank Lampard's second-half effort, the Reds thoroughly deserved the three points that leaves the club only one point away from further glory.
The Reds took just 37 seconds to lift the roof off Old Trafford with incisive passes by Ryan Giggs and Ji-sung Park seeing Hernandez through on goal as a stretching David Luiz failed to intercept the Korean's through-ball. Chicharito nervelessly slipped his finish wide of Petr Cech to hand United the perfect start.
In a whirlwind opening spell, Wayne Rooney let fly from another Park pass to bring the best out of the diving Cech and Hernandez was unable to reach a teasing Park centre that evaded the shaky Luiz.
Another fine move at blistering speed saw Rooney collect a return ball from Antonio Valencia, only to pull his finish just wide. Chelsea finally mustered a couple of chances of their own, with Edwin van der Sar worked by Florent Malouda after fisting away a Didider Drogba header before Salomon Kalou hit a tame effort straight at the Dutch keeper.
But Sir Alex's men doubled their lead in the 23rd minute when Park's wicked drive from an angle forced a corner from Cech's save. From the flag-kick, Giggs teased Kalou and centred invitingly for an outnumbered Vidic to plunder a downward header into the net. Cue incredible celebrations.
Chelsea's response was instant, with Van der Sar palming away a Kalou header and Branislav Ivanovic only finding the side-netting from the rebound. Van der Sar became more prominent as Luiz moved forward with menace to test the veteran, who then dived to his left to frustrate Didier Drogba from a free-kick.
Another cheaply-awarded foul allowed Drogba a second set-piece attempt before there was controversy when Ivanovic escaped a second booking for a blatant foul on Rooney.
Undeterred, United finished the half strongest. John Obi Mikel prodded behind following a Valencia one-two with Rooney and the Ecuadorian winger smashed over the top following neat play by Giggs and Fabio.
Malouda had the first real effort of the second period but Van der Sar watched it sail wide before another big decision went against United. Lampard clearly handled Valencia's cross inside the area but Howard Webb waved play on as everybody anticipated the official pointing to the spot.
Carlo Ancelotti introduced Fernando Torres to his attack just past the hour mark as the Blues searched for a route back into the game, and the title race.
Valencia had another penalty shout rejected after tussling with John Terry inside the box following another rapid break but, this time, it was probably the correct decision from referee Webb.
Van der Sar had to be alert to field a long-range drive by substitute Alex and Drogba was penalised for handball when delivering a shot wide of the far post as some pressure started to build on the home goal.
United did concede when Ivanovic climbed to head a Ramires cross goalwards and Lampard stabbed home from close range with just over 20 minutes remaining. It set up a nervous finale.
Rooney almost restored the two-goal lead immediately but was off-balance when trying to steer in a Hernandez cut-back and Alex cleared superbly off the line to avoid a sense of deja vu for the visitors after the Champions League tie at Old Trafford.
United defenders had to put their bodies on the line in a bid to preserve the now slender advantage, with Fabio, Rio Ferdinand and substitute Jonny Evans all requiring treatment in the aftermath of one attack.
It was tight and tense but Rooney could have scored three times in the space of a minute, only to fail to find the finishing touch that would have relaxed the home fans. Then Hernandez headed over from close range from Valencia's driven centre with four minutes left as the Reds refused to do things the easy way.
Hearts were in mouths when Torres lined up a shot inside the box with time running out, but the £50million man could only drag it off-target, much to palpable relief. United stand on the brink of yet another title. Read more...
Manchester United Vs. Chelsea Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [2 - 1] Chelsea
1' [1 - 0] J. Hernandez
23' [2 - 0] N. Vidic
68' [2 - 1] F. Lampard
Read more...
1' [1 - 0] J. Hernandez
23' [2 - 0] N. Vidic
68' [2 - 1] F. Lampard
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Manchester United Vs. Schalke Highlights Video Clips
United turned on the style to make absolutely certain of a place in the 2011 Champions League final, firing four goals past Schalke in an enthralling semi-final second leg at Old Trafford.
Antonio Valencia and Darron Gibson put the Reds well and truly in the driving seat with two first-half strikes and although Jurado pulled a stunning goal back for Schalke, also before the break, Sir Alex Ferguson's double chasers went on to win comfortably thanks to a second-half brace from the outstanding Anderson.
To single out the South American or any of the triumphant United stars would be misleading, however - this was another tremendous team effort with fourteen players making a contribution to the cause and perhaps giving their manager some more selection dilemmas in the exciting days and weeks ahead.
Sir Alex Ferguson stayed true to his word and made changes – eight, in fact, from the side that slipped up at Arsenal. Only Edwin van der Sar, Anderson and Nani were asked to start again as the boss picked a side with Sunday against Chelsea in mind. Wayne Rooney, reported to have a tight hamstring on Tuesday, was out of the eighteen altogether but his now-regular strike partner Javier Hernandez was named among a strong group of substitutes.
There was a subdued start to the match, with the atmosphere nothing like as electric as it was for the last semi-final second leg to be staged at Old Trafford – against Barcelona in 2008. The circumstances here were very different of course, with the cushion of two away goals blunting any edge this contest might have had.
Only a couple of flashes from the opposite number 17s gave the crowd something to get excited about in the opening 10 minutes – Nani using some great close control to surge between two Schalke players and win a corner; then Jefferson Farfan firing the first shot of note inches wide as van der Sar dived right to monitor its flight.
Farfan’s right boot also caused Darron Gibson some discomfort in his midriff when the latter crunched into a challenge on the Peruvian international. When play resumed, with Gibson happily not requiring the attending stretcher, Berbatov threatened to reprise his West Ham party-piece of last season with a drag-back close to the left-hand byline. Only the alertness of Manuel Neuer, United’s first-half nemesis from the first leg in Germany, prevented the Bulgarian’s low ball locating Antonio Valencia.
There was no such intervention when the latter was picked out again in the 26th minute. Japanese right-back Atsuto Uchida lost possession as Schalke tried to press forward and he was punished instantly, as Gibson received the ball from Anderson and delivered the perfect sliderule pass into Valencia’s path. The Ecuadorian barely broke stride as he slipped the ball under Neuer to notch United’s third goal of the tie, and his third strike of the season.
The goalscorer and provider swopped roles as the Reds swiftly doubled the advantage on the night. Anderson was again their accomplice, receiving a throw-in to his feet inside the area and flicking it on. One touch from Valencia forwarded the ball to Gibson who struck it first time into the net via Neuer’s leg and the right-hand post. The seemingly superhuman goalkeeper of last week had been made to look very ordinary.
United were now 4-0 up on aggregate - and cruising? We thought so until a moment later when Schalke pulled a goal back in spectacular style. Smalling’s attempt to play out from the back was cut out and when Uchida’s right-wing cross careered off the pack of Evans, Rafael and Raul, Jose Manuel Jurado hammered the ball past van der Sar with his venomous left foot.
The Old Trafford crowd, now illuminated by a couple of red flares in the Schalke section, had witnessed a goal rush and three almost became four when Valencia’s effort was cleared off the line by centre-back Benedikt Howedes with Neuer beaten.
While the German side still had a tall order in terms of the tie, they had at least made a fist of it on the evening. But while a couple of Schalke free-kicks and a flurry of bookings for Anderson, Scholes and Gibson, threatened to further loosen United’s grip on the game, the Reds were worthy 2-1 leaders at the interval.
Schalke sent on their first sub for the restart, replacing attacking midfielder Alexander Baumjohann with the Brazilian striker Edu. But it was an Edu compatriot in red who nearly added to the scoreline when the irrepressible Anderson was teed up by Berbatov. United's number eight would surely have scored past most keepers with his curling left-footer but Neuer, suddenly back to his best, flew to his left and flicked the shot wide with his top hand, his right.
With an hour gone, and the 4-1 lead not under any apparent threat, the United fans serenaded their heroes past - Andy Cole, Nicky Butt et al - and present, and began to sing of Wembley. The repertoire was only interrupted by a roar for Anderson's eventual goal - tucked low to Neuer's left after a great run and cut-back by Nani - and by greetings for Patrice Evra and Darren Fletcher when they joined in the fun as substitutes for Rafael and Paul Scholes.
Then came another strike for Anderson - United's fourth goal on the night, sixth on aggregate - when Valencia broke down the right, fed Berbatov, and the Bulgarian - in his last action before making way for Michael Owen - slid the ball to the Brazilian for a first-time finish at the far post.
There was still time for excellent saves at both ends - Neuer denying Owen, and van der Sar thwarting Edu, with substitute Klaas-Jan Huntelaar flagged offside after popping in the rebound - but any more goals would have almost spoiled a sated crowd already relishing a Saturday-night date with Barcelona on May 28. Bring it on. Read more...
Antonio Valencia and Darron Gibson put the Reds well and truly in the driving seat with two first-half strikes and although Jurado pulled a stunning goal back for Schalke, also before the break, Sir Alex Ferguson's double chasers went on to win comfortably thanks to a second-half brace from the outstanding Anderson.
To single out the South American or any of the triumphant United stars would be misleading, however - this was another tremendous team effort with fourteen players making a contribution to the cause and perhaps giving their manager some more selection dilemmas in the exciting days and weeks ahead.
Sir Alex Ferguson stayed true to his word and made changes – eight, in fact, from the side that slipped up at Arsenal. Only Edwin van der Sar, Anderson and Nani were asked to start again as the boss picked a side with Sunday against Chelsea in mind. Wayne Rooney, reported to have a tight hamstring on Tuesday, was out of the eighteen altogether but his now-regular strike partner Javier Hernandez was named among a strong group of substitutes.
There was a subdued start to the match, with the atmosphere nothing like as electric as it was for the last semi-final second leg to be staged at Old Trafford – against Barcelona in 2008. The circumstances here were very different of course, with the cushion of two away goals blunting any edge this contest might have had.
Only a couple of flashes from the opposite number 17s gave the crowd something to get excited about in the opening 10 minutes – Nani using some great close control to surge between two Schalke players and win a corner; then Jefferson Farfan firing the first shot of note inches wide as van der Sar dived right to monitor its flight.
Farfan’s right boot also caused Darron Gibson some discomfort in his midriff when the latter crunched into a challenge on the Peruvian international. When play resumed, with Gibson happily not requiring the attending stretcher, Berbatov threatened to reprise his West Ham party-piece of last season with a drag-back close to the left-hand byline. Only the alertness of Manuel Neuer, United’s first-half nemesis from the first leg in Germany, prevented the Bulgarian’s low ball locating Antonio Valencia.
There was no such intervention when the latter was picked out again in the 26th minute. Japanese right-back Atsuto Uchida lost possession as Schalke tried to press forward and he was punished instantly, as Gibson received the ball from Anderson and delivered the perfect sliderule pass into Valencia’s path. The Ecuadorian barely broke stride as he slipped the ball under Neuer to notch United’s third goal of the tie, and his third strike of the season.
The goalscorer and provider swopped roles as the Reds swiftly doubled the advantage on the night. Anderson was again their accomplice, receiving a throw-in to his feet inside the area and flicking it on. One touch from Valencia forwarded the ball to Gibson who struck it first time into the net via Neuer’s leg and the right-hand post. The seemingly superhuman goalkeeper of last week had been made to look very ordinary.
United were now 4-0 up on aggregate - and cruising? We thought so until a moment later when Schalke pulled a goal back in spectacular style. Smalling’s attempt to play out from the back was cut out and when Uchida’s right-wing cross careered off the pack of Evans, Rafael and Raul, Jose Manuel Jurado hammered the ball past van der Sar with his venomous left foot.
The Old Trafford crowd, now illuminated by a couple of red flares in the Schalke section, had witnessed a goal rush and three almost became four when Valencia’s effort was cleared off the line by centre-back Benedikt Howedes with Neuer beaten.
While the German side still had a tall order in terms of the tie, they had at least made a fist of it on the evening. But while a couple of Schalke free-kicks and a flurry of bookings for Anderson, Scholes and Gibson, threatened to further loosen United’s grip on the game, the Reds were worthy 2-1 leaders at the interval.
Schalke sent on their first sub for the restart, replacing attacking midfielder Alexander Baumjohann with the Brazilian striker Edu. But it was an Edu compatriot in red who nearly added to the scoreline when the irrepressible Anderson was teed up by Berbatov. United's number eight would surely have scored past most keepers with his curling left-footer but Neuer, suddenly back to his best, flew to his left and flicked the shot wide with his top hand, his right.
With an hour gone, and the 4-1 lead not under any apparent threat, the United fans serenaded their heroes past - Andy Cole, Nicky Butt et al - and present, and began to sing of Wembley. The repertoire was only interrupted by a roar for Anderson's eventual goal - tucked low to Neuer's left after a great run and cut-back by Nani - and by greetings for Patrice Evra and Darren Fletcher when they joined in the fun as substitutes for Rafael and Paul Scholes.
Then came another strike for Anderson - United's fourth goal on the night, sixth on aggregate - when Valencia broke down the right, fed Berbatov, and the Bulgarian - in his last action before making way for Michael Owen - slid the ball to the Brazilian for a first-time finish at the far post.
There was still time for excellent saves at both ends - Neuer denying Owen, and van der Sar thwarting Edu, with substitute Klaas-Jan Huntelaar flagged offside after popping in the rebound - but any more goals would have almost spoiled a sated crowd already relishing a Saturday-night date with Barcelona on May 28. Bring it on. Read more...
Manchester United Vs. Schalke Highlights Video Clips
Manchester United [4 - 1] Schalke
26' [1 - 0] L.A. Valencia
31' [2 - 0] D. Gibson
35' [2 - 1] J.M. Jurado
72' [3 - 1] Anderson
76' [4 - 1] Anderson
szólj hozzá: ManUtd 4-1 Schalke -Highlights Read more...
26' [1 - 0] L.A. Valencia
31' [2 - 0] D. Gibson
35' [2 - 1] J.M. Jurado
72' [3 - 1] Anderson
76' [4 - 1] Anderson
szólj hozzá: ManUtd 4-1 Schalke -Highlights Read more...
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Arsenal Vs. Manchester United Match Result Report
United slipped to a 1-0 defeat at Arsenal, setting up a virtual title decider with Chelsea next Sunday at Old Trafford.
Aaron Ramsey, who chose to join the North Londoners ahead of the Reds, scored the only goal of the game to inflict a fourth defeat of the Barclays Premier League campaign on the leaders.
Substitute Michael Owen was denied a late penalty when being brought down inside the box with a couple of minutes remaining after Nemanja Vidic appeared to escape conceding a spot-kick for a handball in the first half.
But the Reds were not at their best and rarely replicated the sort of form displayed against Schalke in midweek.
Sir Alex Ferguson opted for Fabio at right-back and Nani in preference to Antonio Valencia with Anderson drafted into the midfield while the Gunners were without Cesc Fabregas, who injured a thigh in training.
Even without their captain, the hosts started brightly in the sunshine and dominated early possession - although Edwin van der Sar wasn't called into action.
Jack Wilshere lashed a great opportunity wide after a rare slip by Vidic, who cleared straight to the young Englishman, but the Reds' skipper was at his best to pressure Theo Walcott into firing a Robin van Persie cross over the bar soon afterwards.
Patrice Evra was on the top of his game to stretch to divert a van Persie centre away from Walcott and it took some time for United to fashion a threatening move. When it came, Fabio burst onto a Nani pass and stayed on his feet despite a risky challenge inside the box, only to be unable to pick out Javier Hernandez in the middle.
There was a nervous moment on 32 minutes when Vidic appeared to get a feint touch with his fingertips to a Walcott cross with van Persie lurking behind him. Only the Dutchman really appealed but, no doubt, it was a talking point and it did seem to be a moment of madness from Vidic.
Aaron Ramsey and Wayne Rooney traded off-target shots before the Reds striker was harshly booked by Chris Foy for a nudge on Wilshere. Wojciech Szczesny was finally brought into action before half time when gathering Anderson's tame attempt following a more encouraging move which involved Nani and Evra.
United carried more threat after the break with Rooney forcing a save out of Szczesny with a free-kick and Evra ramming the rebound into the side-netting while Nani delivered a great cross that just evaded Hernandez before sending his own set-piece effort bouncing wide.
But Arsenal broke through on 56 minutes, seconds after Antonio Valencia replaced Anderson in midfield and the players were still reorganising.
Wilshere fed van Persie on the right and the striker was afforded too much time to pick out the unmarked Ramsey, who guided his shot past van der Sar's right hand and into the corner of the net.
United needed to muster a response and Vidic headed wide from a Nani corner before the manager replaced Hernandez with the league's top goalscorer Dimitar Berbatov.
The visitors finally started building up a head of steam as Ramsey handled a Michael Carrick cross on the edge of the box, arguably inside, but Rooney's free-kick was comfortable for Szczesny.
Rooney did well to find Nani during one smart break but the Portuguese winger's shot was beaten out by Szczesny, although the Gunners still looked dangerous themselves with van Persie a constant threat.
Owen joined the Reds' attack, in place of Carrick, but was denied what looked a blatant penalty with a couple of minutes left when turning Clichy inside the area. Referee Foy waved away the appeals and there was to be no late drama with the team needing to pick themselves up for two huge games in the coming week. Read more...
Aaron Ramsey, who chose to join the North Londoners ahead of the Reds, scored the only goal of the game to inflict a fourth defeat of the Barclays Premier League campaign on the leaders.
Substitute Michael Owen was denied a late penalty when being brought down inside the box with a couple of minutes remaining after Nemanja Vidic appeared to escape conceding a spot-kick for a handball in the first half.
But the Reds were not at their best and rarely replicated the sort of form displayed against Schalke in midweek.
Sir Alex Ferguson opted for Fabio at right-back and Nani in preference to Antonio Valencia with Anderson drafted into the midfield while the Gunners were without Cesc Fabregas, who injured a thigh in training.
Even without their captain, the hosts started brightly in the sunshine and dominated early possession - although Edwin van der Sar wasn't called into action.
Jack Wilshere lashed a great opportunity wide after a rare slip by Vidic, who cleared straight to the young Englishman, but the Reds' skipper was at his best to pressure Theo Walcott into firing a Robin van Persie cross over the bar soon afterwards.
Patrice Evra was on the top of his game to stretch to divert a van Persie centre away from Walcott and it took some time for United to fashion a threatening move. When it came, Fabio burst onto a Nani pass and stayed on his feet despite a risky challenge inside the box, only to be unable to pick out Javier Hernandez in the middle.
There was a nervous moment on 32 minutes when Vidic appeared to get a feint touch with his fingertips to a Walcott cross with van Persie lurking behind him. Only the Dutchman really appealed but, no doubt, it was a talking point and it did seem to be a moment of madness from Vidic.
Aaron Ramsey and Wayne Rooney traded off-target shots before the Reds striker was harshly booked by Chris Foy for a nudge on Wilshere. Wojciech Szczesny was finally brought into action before half time when gathering Anderson's tame attempt following a more encouraging move which involved Nani and Evra.
United carried more threat after the break with Rooney forcing a save out of Szczesny with a free-kick and Evra ramming the rebound into the side-netting while Nani delivered a great cross that just evaded Hernandez before sending his own set-piece effort bouncing wide.
But Arsenal broke through on 56 minutes, seconds after Antonio Valencia replaced Anderson in midfield and the players were still reorganising.
Wilshere fed van Persie on the right and the striker was afforded too much time to pick out the unmarked Ramsey, who guided his shot past van der Sar's right hand and into the corner of the net.
United needed to muster a response and Vidic headed wide from a Nani corner before the manager replaced Hernandez with the league's top goalscorer Dimitar Berbatov.
The visitors finally started building up a head of steam as Ramsey handled a Michael Carrick cross on the edge of the box, arguably inside, but Rooney's free-kick was comfortable for Szczesny.
Rooney did well to find Nani during one smart break but the Portuguese winger's shot was beaten out by Szczesny, although the Gunners still looked dangerous themselves with van Persie a constant threat.
Owen joined the Reds' attack, in place of Carrick, but was denied what looked a blatant penalty with a couple of minutes left when turning Clichy inside the area. Referee Foy waved away the appeals and there was to be no late drama with the team needing to pick themselves up for two huge games in the coming week. Read more...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
