Manchester United runs out 5-2 over MLS All Stars

Things could not have gotten off to a worse start for the MLS All Stars as they gifted Manchester United the opening goal in under a minute on Wednesday night in Houston.  A weak pass in the back by Kevin alston was stolen by Federico Macheda who strolled in and slotted the ball home to send United on their way.  The Red Devils were clearly intent on starting fast after a lackluster US tour so far and they were up 2-0 within 15 minutes as Macheda added his second heading home a corner kick.

The MLSers got their legs under them and started to get back into the match as the half wore on producing plenty of attack time, but not a goal.  The match went 2-0 to the break, but one could feel the MLS All Stars trying to fight back.  In the 63rd minute the lead was cut to 2-1 as Brian Ching headed home a perfect freekick from FC Dallas stud David Ferreira.  The traffic was mostly one way at that point as Manchester United were on their heels.

The goal spurred United into action though and they answered right back as Darron Gibson curled a freekick over the MLS wall and into the net from 25 yards out.  It was a wonderful set piece that left the Houston crowd buzzing.  Shortly after Tom Cleverley scored a nice goal flicking the ball over defender Wilman Conde before slipping the ball home.

The crowd was further delighted in the 83rd when young Mexico star Javier Hernandez beat the offside trap and lifted the ball over keeper Nick Rimando making it 5-1.  Dwayne De Rosario grabbed one back for the MLS in the dying minutes, but the dominance was complete as Manchester United ran out 5-2 winners.