The Big Match Review .. Manchester United 1-0 Arsenal
December 14th 2010 16:42
Last night saw a huge game in this Premier League season. League leaders Arsenal, travelled to Manchester United, who would be top had their game at Blackpool not been postponed. So for both sides, this was a great opportunity to take control of the title race. Old Trafford was packed, for an intriguing Monday Night Football Match.
The amount of passion, and fight on show from both sides, proved that all 22 players on the pitch, understood the importance of the fixture. What the first half lacked in class, was made up for by sheer determination. The deadlock was broken in the 41st minute, as Park Ji Sung brilliantly headed past debutant goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny. The ball deflected into the box, and the South Korean midfielder improvised too nod into the far corner.
The Gunners keeper had a good game besides, making his first Premier League appearance. Talk about getting thrown in the deep end. I got to see him first hand in a Carling Cup tie against Newcastle this season, and he was impressive that night, as he was last night. He made some good saves.
He was also in goal as Wayne Rooney missed a penalty. Though, the miss had nothing to do with the goalkeeper. The England striker blazed his spot kick a mile over the crossbar, failing to double his side's lead. It probably was justice, as the penalty decision was harsh. With full back Gael Clichy laid on the ground in the box, Nani kicked the ball against his arm.
But as the away side pushed for an equaliser, their efforts were in vein. Moroccan Chamakh came closest, twice narrowly missing out on what would have been a vital goal for the Gunners. It finished 1-0 to Manchester United, a huge three points, which lift Ferguson's men to first place in the Premier League.
Still with a game in hand over all of their title rivals, United are now two points clear at the top. They face a massive game at Chelsea next weekend. But the result is not a disaster for Arsenal. They played well, and remain in 2nd place. With Chelsea and Man Utd going head to head next Sunday, there is a chance the Gunners may find themselves back at the top this time next week.
But this was unquestionably a big result for Manchester United, putting them in pole position for the Premier League title heading towards the new year.
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