Manchester United fall 1-0 to Burnley

Burnley earned their first top-flight victory in 33 years at Turf Moor. 20,872 supporters were on hand to witness their side’s shock victory over Manchester United.

From the offset Manchester United looked likely to score but Michael Owen was unable to capitalize on several chances. It would be a night of frustration for the England international, one with Fabio Capello watching from the stands.

Once Burnley settled they had a few opportunities to open the scoring. Steven Fletcher and Martin Paterson came close but it was not until the 19th minute when Robbie Blake fired home the decisive strike. Evra’s partial clearance found Blake and the 33-year-old smashed home a first-time volley into the top-right corner, no chance for Foster. Blake’s powerful hit sent the Burnley faithful into raptures, their side had not beaten Manchester United since 1968.

Manchester United fought back. Evra won a penalty when Blake fouled the French left-back. Michael Carrick stepped up to the spot ready to level the scores just before the half, but the Beast (as Brian Jensen is known at Turf Moor) made a brilliant save, retaining his sides one goal advantage. Jensen made a string of second half saves denying any resurgence from the title holders.

After this match Burnley will have revitalized hopes for their first Premier League season while United supporters may be thinking back to that £80m.