Confrontation

By Chris
December 24 2012

Manchester United go into Christmas with a four point lead at the top of the Premier League table following a 1-1 draw at Swansea City.The headlines, however, have been grabbed by an incident involving Robin Van Persie and Ashley Williams, rather than the goals scored by Patrice Evra and the division's top scorer Michu.

With the scores level, United won a free-kick after RVP was fouled. Ashley Williams powerfully booted away the loose ball, which struck the Red Devils frontman on the back of the head as he lay on the floor. 

The Dutchman reacted furiously, squaring up to Williams - and both players were promptly booked by referee Michael Oliver.

Sir Alex Ferguson has subsequently accused William's actions of being deliberate, stating his player was "lucky to be alive" and describing the incident as a "disgraceful act" - comments, in truth, which seem harsh on the Welsh defender, who proclaims it was an accident.

United had taken the lead after 16 minutes as Evra nodded home an RVP corner. The opening goal followed returning Swans stopper Michel Vorm producing saves to deny Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young.

Swansea, however, were more threatening for large parts of the opening period and restored parity shortly before the half-hour mark.

Wayne Routledge's intelligent through ball found Jonathan De Guzman. His shot was well parried by David De Gea, but Michu turned home the rebound to bag his 13th league goal of the season.

The travelling Red Devils, who welcomed Nemanja Vidic back to the starting XI, improved vastly after the break but couldn't find a late winner despite significant late pressure.

In the closing moments, United came agonisingly close to finding a winner. Michael Carrick headed an RVP corner onto the woodwork, whilst Young's shot hit Ben Davies on the line.

Full Time - Swansea City 1-1 Manchester United
Attendance - 20,650