United missed a golden opportunity to close in on Chelsea and Arsenal after only managing a 1-1 draw with Fulham at Craven Cottage earlier in the week. (Reports: BBC, Soccernet, Guardian, ManUtd.com.)
The Red Devils were in control for the most of that match but once again struggled to convert possession into goals. United took the lead thanks to Smith’s determination and persistence but it became clear Ferguson’s team missed van Nistelrooy’s single-mindedness and ruthlessness as they fluffed chance after chance later. They were ultimately punished for their profligacy in the 87th minute when Boubba Diop beat Carroll with a stunning shot to equalise.
There was hell to pay and United took their frustrations out on Crystal Palace when they beat them 5-2 at Old Trafford yesterday. (Reports: BBC, Soccernet, Guardian, ManUtd.com.)
The first half saw three goals scored as United took a 2-1 lead but the turning point of the match occurred in the opening minutes of the second half which saw three goals scored in as many minutes. Palace did well to level but were left stunned by an own goal and they were completely broken when Scholes scored his second of the match.
It was almost all United after that as Giggs turned on the style down the left flank. O’Shea scored with his shin to make it five after stellar work by the Welshman but United could have easily reached double figures were it not for some superb saves by the Palace keeper.
The result means United remain nine points behind league leaders Chelsea.
Next up: Bolton.
