Exceptionally well-organised Saints steal Man Utd scalp

Southampton, guided magnificently by Ronald Koeman, schooled Manchester United with a perfect defensive performance, before snatching a memorable 1-0 victory to leapfrog their hosts into third place in the Premier League.

For the Saints, their Old Trafford triumph ends a 27 year drought in the red half of Manchester, and secures them a first Premier League-era win on United’s home turf.

Koeman’s well-drilled men made their intent clear from kick-off as Nathaniel Clyne, restored to right back after returning from injury, was the architect of his own chance following an intelligent run down the flank, but fired wide.

Saints did only have limited chances throughout the first half, preferring to hem United in, but their resilient rearguard performance, supported by an astute but surprising midfield diamond, was still something to admire.

Flying fullbacks Clyne and Ryan Bertrand pegged back the Red Devils’ wingbacks, while a deep lying and impressively composed Morgan Schneiderlin shielded the defence.

United were not without merit, dominating possession and illustrating smooth link-up play, but continually failed to break through the Saints’ backline.

It was a flurry of missed chances, including a trio of excellent opportunities placed on a plate for Juan Mata late in the second half, that cost the home team in the end.

Spain star Mata certainly needs to sharpen his scoring boots but always looked the most likely to create or net. Angel Di Maria, still lacking match fitness and out of position up top, continually made the wrong decisions, whilst Robin van Persie also cut a frustrated figure up front.

Doubts will remain over the futures of of Jonny Evans, replaced in the starting XI by midfielder Daley Blind at left centre back, and attacking pair Adnan Januzaj and Radamel Falcao, who did not even make the bench.

As the Red Devils struggled to create following the substitutions of Di Maria and Van Persie who, despite being sub par, still gave Southampton something to worry about, a moment of ingenuity from Januzaj or Falcao would not have gone amiss.