Superb United comeback seals Community Shield

Nani - Match-Winner!
By Chris,
August 7 2011

Manchester United staged a stunning second-half comeback to win the Community Shield on Sunday. The Red Devils fought back from two goals down against bitter rivals City to clinch more silverware for Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ferguson had played down the significance of this match prior to kick-off – and his relaxed attitude to the Shield was perhaps summed up by his decision not to climb the Wembley steps with his team after the full-time whistle.

However, for the fans, this game carried significant importance – particularly after the F.A Cup semi-final defeat to City at Wembley earlier this year. United’s travelling army were jubilant as two goals from Nani and another from Wayne Rooney sealed a fine second-half comeback.

Despite bossing the first-half, the Red Devils found themselves two goals down thanks to a header from Joleon Lescott and a stunning long-range strike from Edin Dzeko.

Summer acquisition David De Gea seemed at fault for both goals – failing to react for David Silva’s cross for the first goal and reacting slowly to Dzeko’s speculative but impressive long-range effort moments before the half-time break.

City did not deserve their lead. United had spurned numerous chances, with Ashley Young and Chris Smalling both going close. However, Sir Alex’s men refused to be disheartened and staged a brilliant second-half fightback.

Smalling cut the deficit seven minutes after half-time as his acrobatic effort met Young’s free-kick, before Nani restored parity on 58 minutes as he capped a fine passing move by rounding the ‘keeper and knocking the ball home in front of United’s ecstatic supporters.

As the contest headed for spot-kicks, United snatched it. Wayne Rooney’s long punt forward fell nicely for Nani, and the ever-improving winger latched onto the ball and kept his composure to drill home a last-gasp winner.

Full Time – Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United
Attendance – 77,169