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United prove too strong for Sunderland

15/10/2005

Manchester United emerged victorious at the Stadium of Light after a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Sunderland.

Goals from Wayne Rooney, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and substitute Guiseppe Rossi secured the points for United, although a spirited Sunderland side pushed them all the way.

The Black Cats started brightly, frustrating United with their high-tempo pressing game and almost took the lead, with Van der Sar pushing Gary Breen’s header onto the crossbar.

However, a lightning break from the visitors saw Wayne Rooney give United the lead against the run of play, firing home after being put clear by the impressive Park Ji Sung.

When Van Nistelrooy doubled their advantage 15 minutes from time, the three points looked secure.

However, Republic of Ireland striker Stephen Elliot’s long-range effort gave the home side renewed hope and Van der Sar denied Sunderland an equaliser, saving brilliantly from substitute Anthony Le Tallec.

United wrapped up the game when 18 year-old Rossi, making his Premiership debut, lashed home from 20 yards.

The win lifts United up to third in the league, though they remain ten points behind league leaders Chelsea.

Defeat sees Sunderland slide back into the relegation zone, though Mick McCarthy’s men will have taken heart from his side’s honest endeavour.

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