Late own-goal hands United three points at Hawthorns
De Gea struggled
By Chris,
August 16 2011
Manchester United claimed a trademark late victory to kick-off the defence of their Premier League crown with victory at West Bromwich Albion. A Wayne Rooney strike and an own-goal from Steven Reid proved enough to hand United the win.
United were in scintillating form in the game's early stages and deservedly took the lead through Rooney.
The England frontman drilled home a low effort after combining with Rafael Da Silva and Ashley Young.
However, United were pegged back as Shane Long equalised on his Baggies debut.
A tame effort should have been easy for £19million summer signing De Gea - but it crept under the 'keeper's body to the delight of the home crowd.
Following his unconvincing display in the Community Shield, some fans are already asking questions of the Spanish shot stopper.
The surprise equaliser took the stuffing out of United as the Baggies grew in confidence.
However, in typical fashion, United hit home a last-gasp winner that was cruel on the home side. Young's cross deflected off Reid and beyond the reach of ex-Red Ben Foster.
United dominated possession and controlled the game in the first-half - but fell away after the interval before Reid's own-goal settled the contest.
Full Time - West Bromwich Albion 1-2 Manchester United
Attendance - 25,360