Mata celebrates winner

By Chris O'Brien
December 23 2014

Juan Mata Garcia grabbed the only goal of the game as Manchester United returned to wining ways with a narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace.

The former Chelsea midfielder made an almost immediate impact after coming off the bench, drilling home a fine finish on 68 minutes from 20 yards out.

Palace may feel their endeavours warranted a point, and they troubled United's makeshift back three of Luke Shaw, Paddy McNair and Daley Blind.

United, in truth, however, had significantly more chances, with Shaw going close and the woodwork denying Mata a brace.

The hosts also dominated possession without looking too dangerous. The best chance for the Eagles came from former Red Devil Frazier Campbell. The speedy striker seized on a defensive first-half mix-up to pick up a long-ball, but his lobbed effort over David de Gea ended up on the roof of the net.

Louis van Gaal will be pleased his side have returned to winning ways, though this was far from a memorable or spectacle performance.

Full Time - Manchester United 1-0 Crystal Palace (Attendance: 75,325)