Manchester United are top of the Premier League – for a few hours at least – after beating Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 in the opening match of the 2015-16 season.
United did not register a single shot on target in the first half, but they went in ahead at the interval thanks to this own goal scored by Kyle Walker on 22 minutes.
SEE MORE: Man United player ratings: Smalling shines, debut-makers earn 6s, 7s & 8s
Although Walker was the player shamed by the scoresheet, the real guilty party was Nabil Bentaleb, who gave the ball away with a horrible square pass, which was pounced upon by Juan Mata.
The former Chelsea playmaker then fed Ashley Young, whose cross found Wayne Rooney.
Walker did very well to chase back and make a tackle on Rooney, but, unfortunately for the Spurs right-back, his challenge resulted in him poking the ball past goalkeeper Michel Vorm, who had started due to Hugo Lloris’s wrist injury.
SEE ALSO:
Squad number changes
Liverpool to SACK Brendan Rodgers
Chelsea make signing of the summer as WORLD CLASS schemer pens four-year deal
At the time of United’s goal, Spurs had posted four shots – to the hosts’ zero. Tottenham’s best chance fell to Christian Eriksen, who lobbed over the bar after superb work from Harry Kane.
The lead gave United momentum, and they looked much more dangerous for the remainder of the first half.
Spurs held their own in the second period, but, despite some late pressure, United debutant Sergio Romero was able to keep a precious clean sheet to see his new side earn three early-season points.
COMMENTS