Phil Jones celebrates

By Chris,
December 4 2011

Phil Jones scored his first ever competitive goal as Manchester United claimed an important 1-0 victory at Aston Villa in Saturday’s teatime kick-off. His first-half strike ensured United bounced back from their Carling Cup disappointment, extending the club’s unbeaten Premier League run to five matches.

United controlled Saturday’s game against mid-table Villa, though it was not a game that will remain long in the memory for many fans.

Javier Hernandez hobbled off for United in the early stages and faces a spell on the sidelines, whilst Shay Given and Jermaine Jenas also picked up knocks.

The only goal of the game came after 19 minutes. Making his 60th competitive appearance – and his 20th for United – the £16.5million centre-back turned Nani’s cross home.

United dominated possession and deserved the win, though they were nearly denied maximum point in the closing stages as Anders Lindegaard did well to tip a James Collins header over the bar.

Hours after Manchester City piled pressure on United with a 5-1 demolition of Norwich, Sir Alex Ferguson’s men ground out an important, composed win to maintain the club’s excellent record at Villa Park.

Full Time – Aston Villa 0-1 Manchester United
Attendance – 40,053