Ronaldo rescues United

Saturday, September 23, 2006

Cristiano Ronaldo's late goal rescued a 1-1 draw for Manchester United after Kevin Doyle had put the Royals in front at the Madjeski Stadium.

United dominated possession and chances but looked to be heading to a defeat to Premiership new boys Reading after Doyle fired home a 48th minute penalty.

However, Ronaldo scored a superb solo strike to spare United's blushes and keep them in touch with new leaders Chelsea.

Marcus Hahnemann had to be alert to keep out Wayne Rooney's early 25-yard tester, and Graeme Murty ensured Kieran Richardson didn't get to the rebound.

Leroy Lita replied for Reading with an effort from outside the area that was inches away from the top corner, before Ronaldo forced Hahnemann into action again with a low drive from distance.

Paul Scholes was next to come close, first narrowing failing to connect to Ronaldo's low cross, and then firing over from the edge of the box.

The Royals then took the lead three minutes after the restart when Gary Neville was adjudged to have handled a Murty cross.

Doyle, who missed a spot-kick in the midweek Carling Cup shoot-out with Darlington, then squeezed the ball under Van der Sar's hand to send the home fans into raptures.

United stepped up the pace even more with Scholes coming close again before Ronaldo's fine angled drive from 12 yards on 72.