Tevez late strike seals crucial win at Stoke
Tevez scores
By Chris,
December 26 2008
Carloz Tevez scored eight minutes from time to hand Manchester United a crucial 1-0 victory over 10-man Stoke. It looked like being an afternoon of frustration for the World Champions before Andy Wilkinson was dismissed and Tevez bundled a fine finish home from six-yards out. The result leaves United third after Boxing Day's festivities.
Sir Alex Ferguson made five changes from the side that lifted the World Club Cup in Japan. Rio Ferdinand was injured in the warm-up and swapped places with Jonny Evans. Meanwhile, Gary Neville replaced Rafael Da Silva, John O'Shea came in for Patrice Evra, Darren Fletcher swapped with Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes replaced Anderson.
Stoke's Riccardo Fuller and Vidic had early chances but the opening-half was largely a disappointing and scrappy affair. United showed a few signs of tiredness as they tried to break down a resolute Stoke defence and it was no surprise to see the two sides go in goalless at the break.
The Potters started to look more threatening after the interval and strung together a few impressive spells of possession. Danny Push headed a long-throw from Rory Delap over the bar, whilst Edwin van der Sar was forced to make a decent save from Fuller.
The game swung in United's favour on 72 minutes. Wilkinson, already booked, was shown red for a harsh challenge on Cristiano Ronaldo - who himself had been lucky to avoid a caution for a stamp earlier in the game. From there, Stoke's ambitions extended no further than hanging on as United surged forward in search of the winner.
The winning goal came with seven minutes left on Chris Foy's watch. Substitute Dimitar Berbatov did well to flick on Gary Neville's cross and Tevez was on hand to drill home a fine finish from six yards sending 2,000 travelling fans absolutely bananas.
United now sit 3rd in the Premier League table ahead of Monday's clash with Middlesbrough. This was a perfect late Christmas present.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Full Time - Stoke City 0-1 Manchester United
Attendance - 27,500