Own goal hands United win in opening day snooze-fest
Own goal horror
By Chris
August 8 2015
The new season started in less than memorable fashion - but the record books will show that Manchester United's campaign kicked-off with a 1-0 home win over Spurs.
In the Premier League opener, Louis van Gaal's men moved top of the table for a few hours with a less than convincing single goal win against Tottenham Hotspur.
Spurs started more strongly, and Christian Eriksen should have scored when he was clean through. However, his attempted lob over 'keeper Sergio Romero - in for the dropped David de Gea - couldn't hit the net.
Despite a less than impressive start, United grabbed the lead in messy circumstances. Some neat build-up play left the unmarked Wayne Rooney a great chance to score, but Spurs defender Kyle Walker finished for him as he attempted a tackle.
United held on for the vicory, without registering too many attempts. Spurs looked dangerous in the final moments, with Chris Smalling impressive at the back and Romero, initially showing some nerves, needing to pull off some impressive stops.
It is far too early to make much of an assessment of United's other debutants. Memphis Depay seemed dismayed when he was substituted after 68 minutes following some lively moments of play. Morgan Schneiderlin sent some wayward passes forward but also showed some promise, whilst Matteo Darmian seemed comfortable edging forward from defence. Bastian Schweinsteiger had a quiet debut as a substitute, and was booked.
An important win - but nothing to get excited about.
Full Time - Manchester United 1-0 Spurs
Attendance - 75,261