Defiant Swans halt Man United

Alex Ferguson’s men left Wales with only a point after Swansea held off a second-half onslaught to retain a 1-1 at the Liberty Stadium.

This came after Manchester City secured a last-minute winner against bottom of the table Reading. With only a four-point deficit the reigning champions will feel they can catch up sooner than anticipated.

Patrice Evra gave United the lead, heading in from a Robin Van Persie corner.

Swansea equalised through Miguel Michu after a blocked shot from Jonathan De Guzman.

All the goals came within the first half and what may have seemed a dull second half was full of chances and controversy. 

Evra scored his third goal this season after 15 minutes, again losing his marker in the area.
However, he was partly at fault for Swansea’s leveller, allowing De Guzman to breeze past him and get a shot away. His effort was saved by David De Gea but Michu put away the rebound after half an hour. Swansea managed to hold out till half time and were well worthy of their equaliser.

The second half was predominately dominated by United, striking the woodwork twice while Wayne Rooney had a number of shots well saved from Swansea keeper Michel Vorm.

The game was slightly tarnished by an incident involving Robin Van Persie and Ashley Williams. Williams kicked the ball at the Dutchman’s head after the whistle was blown, which sparked confrontation leading to both players being booked.

Swansea will be delighted with the result after United’s dominance, while the Premier League leaders will feel they’ve dropped two points in the run in to a busy Christmas period.

Kris Cannon