Manchester United begin title defence with 1-0 victory over Birmingham City

Manchester United began its title defence effectively, as they defeated a resilient Birmingham City side 1-0 at Old Trafford. The newly promoted Blues showed that they are ready to fight with the best in order to retain their Premier League status.

But it was Wayne Rooney’s 99th goal for Manchester United that was the difference, propelling the Premier League champions off to a winning start. Finally playing in his favoured central role after being pushed out the wing last season, Rooney’s goal in the 34th minute was a simple tap-in after his initial header fortunately came back off the post and fell to his feet from a few yards out.

Birmingham’s Christian Benitez was in great form on the day, as he forced a difficult save from Ben Foster. Michael Owen probably should have put United up 2-0, but he was denied by his fellow countryman Joe Hart.

Any club that holds Manchester United to 1-0 at Old Trafford should be proud, as United were forced to take their game to the next level to earn three points over a spirited Birmingham City side. Due to Rio Ferdinand’s thigh injury, John O'Shea took the captain’s armband for United and Fabio started his first Premier League match.