The league leaders Manchester United had a tough evening at Upton park as they were held to a two goal each draw by the Hammers in the FA Cup third round. A replay of the match is in order much to the displeasure of Sir Alex Ferguson. The replay means United will now have one more game added to their already hectic set of fixtures. West Ham however will be unhappy to have missed a brilliant chance to win having been in the lead until 91st minute.
The Red Devils having started the game with Robin Van Persie in the Subs and without Rooney, Nani, Carrick and Evra were made to do lot of hard work in the middle by the gritty londoners. United got the first goal after some wonderful passing which netted in by Cleverley but West Ham struck back immediately with an header from James Collins. Even with the strange 5 3 2 formation used by United which was confusing their play the game looked to be in the balance as half time approached. There was notable chance for Welbeck to put his team ahead but the young english striker could only manage to gift the ball back to the opposition keeper.
The Second half saw much more energized performance by the home team forcing United to sit back and defend themselves. West ham took the lead on the stroke of an hour with another brilliant header by James Collins who was having a stormier of a game. Re-inforcements by the names of Robin Van Persie, Valencia and Ryan giggs were then brought in Sir Alex who may have not counted upon leaving things so late by his team. The devils did start knocking on the doors of their opponents once the tactical changes were made but were not able to find any luck with goals. It was only on the 91st minute then, that Robin once again became the savior for the 11 times FA cup winners as he slotted home his 20th goal of the season on a pin point pass by Giggs. Though this wasn't the right result United would still be satisfied with the draw for now having snatched it from jaws of defeat.
Speaking on the game, Sir Alex said “You never do that with our team [write us off], But certainly when you’re 2-1 down with a couple of minutes or three minutes left, you just hope you get a break.”
The United Boss also looked to be happy in the manner the equalizer was scored and added “You have to say, the manner of the goal, the pass from Ryan Giggs, the first touch from Robin van Persie and his finish were absolutely world class, absolutely fantastic.”
The Re- Match is Scheduled to be played in the midweek of Jan 13 - 20th at Old Trafford. Manchester United will be facing Liverpool and Tottenham on the either side of this match.
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