Park seals victory

Koen Freriks
9 april 2006, 19:22

Ji-Sung Park sealed a 2-0 victory for Manchester United this evening, as they outclassed rivals Arsenal.

Thierry Henry was left out of the starting eleven by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, a move that left shocked expressions on faces throughout the country.

Emmanuel Adebayor could of opened the scoring for Arsenal, but for a brilliant challenge from United right-back Gary Neville.

Robin Van Persie was Arsenal's main danger man, as the Gunners dominated possession throughout the first period. Van Persie unleashed a stinging shot, but United keeper Edwin Van der Sar was equal to it.

Jens Lehmann was soon brought into action, Christiano Ronaldo miscued the ball, however it fell straight to Wayne Rooney, who's majestic effort was tipped away by the German keeper.

Ryan Giggs had a great chance to draw first blood, however his header was mistimed and flew wide of the Arsenal goal.

Ruud Van Nistelrooy was then sent clean through on goal, only to side-foot the ball wide of Jens Lehmann.

The major talking point of the first half came on 44 minutes, Wayne Rooney beat the offside trap and rounded Lehmann, before smashing the ball goal wards, only to see it blocked by the arm of Kolo Toure and deflect onto the post. All protests were waved away by referee Graham Poll.

However, after the break United were finally rewarded for all the effort they gave during the first period.

Vidic intercepted a pass from Van Persie, before passing the ball to Mikael Silvestre, who stormed down the left wing before releasing a pinpoint cross to Rooney, who needed no help to finish off the move.

Thierry Henry was brought on in the 70th minute, but it was too late, as Ji-Sung Park finished Arsenal off.

Wayne Rooney crossed for Park, who slid in to stab the ball home ahead of Emmanuel Eboue.

The win lifts United's title hopes, however with Chelsea winning as well, the dream looks almost gone. Arsenal now have to win most of their climaxing games to clinch the fourth Premiership spot ahead of Tottenham Hotspur.

Reacties

Je moet ingelogd zijn om een reactie te kunnen plaatsen.

Inloggen