The Battle of Old Trafford is the name of the Premier League game played between Arsenal and Manchester United on September 21, 2003 at Old Trafford, Manchester. The final result of the game was 0-0. But, still it became one of the most memorable games of the Premier League era.
The game was a very physical and intense game as we witnessed a lot of fouls (13 by Manchester United, 18 by Arsenal). In the 80th minute of the game, Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira received a second yellow card and was sent off. However in the very last minute of the game referee Steve Bennett awarded a penalty to Manchester United. Unfortunately Ruud Van Nistelrooy missed the penalty kick and the game ended 0-0.
However after the final whistle, Ruud Van Nistelrooy was confronted by a lot of Arsenal players. Martin Keown jumped up next to Ruud Van Nistelrooy and brought his arms down hard on Nistelrooy's back, while Lauren pushed Van Nistelrooy, Parlour and Cole offered verbal abuse. The Manchester United striker did not react and was escorted by his fellow Manchester United players.
This game was significant because Arsenal later went on to win the league and remained unbeaten throughout the season. Something that had only been achieved by Preston North End in the 1888-89 English Season. The 2003-04 season gave Arsenal the title of "THE INVINCIBLES". However, the same would not have happened if Ruud Van Nistelrooy would have got his penalty right.
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