Southampton upstage United at theatre of dreams in 1-1 draw
Southampton defender Dejan Lovren pokes home from an 89th-minute corner, extending a disappointing start to season for Moyes' Red Devils
Manchester United’s disappointing start to the Premier League season continued on Saturday as the champions were held to a 1-1 draw at home to high-flying Southampton.
United’s teenage winger Adnan Januzaj celebrated his new five-year contract by creating the game’s opening goal in the 26th minute with a superb through ball for Wayne Rooney.
The England striker’s shot was blocked by Southampton goalkeeper Artur Boruc, but Robin van Persie was on hand to sweep the rebound home.
Both Rooney and Van Persie hit the woodwork thereafter, but the hosts were prevented from recording consecutive victories for the first time in the league this season when a header by Southampton defender Dejan Lovren flicked into the net off teammate Adam Lallana from an 89th-minute corner.
“We had the opportunities to go 2-0 up. They had been knocking on the door, but I thought we would see it out,” said United manager David Moyes. “But if you don’t defend a corner well enough, there’s always a chance they will score.”
The draw left United in eighth place, eight points adrift of leaders Arsenal.