Saha The Decider :: Man Utd 1 - Sunderland 0
September 1st, 2007 at 5:22 pm , filed under Match Report.
Louis Saha second-half introduction proved to be the decisive point for United second 1-0 win at Old Trafford following last weekend match against Tottenham.
Saha came in to replace new signing Anderson and immediately spark United attack in to life. Saha first appearance since the Champions League semi-final defeat to AC Milan in May, he found the elusive winner 19 minutes from time, heading from Nani corner giving United a 1-0 victory just as they looked set to lose even more ground to their major championship rivals.
It was Craig Gordon failure to collect Nani corner that gifted Saha to head home his first goal of the season. Giggs did not make it due to hamstring strain he suffered during the training on Friday. While Carrick was rested to the bench, Fergie opted to start with Chris Eagles as the Welshman replacement and new boys Anderson to offer extra penetration.
However, Fergie was sadly mistaken. As for the first time, the all new attacking signings played together, neither Anderson nor strike partner Carlos Tevez are instinctive chance-sniffers in the Solskjaer mould, whom walk onto the pitch prior to kick-off to thanks the United fans and received guard of honour from both teams, merely emphasising a feeling of nostalgia around the Theatre of Dreams.
Indeed, with Paul Schole, pushing forward from midfield and both Nani and Eagles checking in off their wing berths, the ‘hole’ was so full there was barely any breathing space. United’s lack of penetration was clear for all to see and Ferguson introduction of Saha for Anderson at half-time was one of the least surprising substitutions Fergie ever made.
Instantly, Tevez had the freedom to roam around as he wished, the Sunderland defence are really tested to their limits at the first time with Saha’s more direct approach.
Hargreaves and Fletcher wasted late chances to double United’s lead at the end. More positive news are ahead, with Ronaldo having served his three matches suspension and the possibility of Rooney return for the trip to Everton in fortnight, Sir Alex just couldn’t be happier to have the three points in the bag in the hope of better to come in the months that lie ahead.