Wayne Rooney scored another memorable goal as Manchester United moved up to third in the Premier League with victory over Aston Villa on Saturday. The 29-year-old has a back catalogue of strikes that any forward in the world would be proud of. Here’s a look at five of the best.
ASTON VILLA — APRIL 4, 2015
With United leading through Ander Herrera’s strike, Rooney was on hand to extend their lead as Louis van Gaal’s side looked to clinch an important three points. He controlled substitute Angel di Maria’s cross with his left foot, and then made a sharp turn before smashing the ball home first time with his right. Villa got back into the game through Christian Benteke shortly afterwards before Herrera’s second of the afternoon secured the win.
WEST HAM UNITED — MARCH 22, 2014
With David Beckham in attendance, Rooney scored from the halfway line to put United ahead at Upton Park. The England forward managed to catch West Ham goalkeeper Adrian off his line and got just enough in his effort to lob the Spaniard and put David Moyes’ men in front after eight minutes. Rooney added his second to complete a 2-0 win.
MAN CITY — FEBRUARY 12, 2011
Rooney’s most memorable goal for United came against their city rivals. Nani had opened the scoring for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side before David Silva levelled for the visitors. But, in the 78th minute, Rooney twisted his body to meet Nani’s deflected cross with a stunning bicycle-kick and slam the ball past the despairing dive of Joe Hart and into the top corner. Watch the goal in the first video below.
PORTSMOUTH — JANUARY 27, 2007
Having tapped in United’s opener, Rooney’s second goal of United’s 2-1 FA Cup fourth-round win over Portsmouth was much more spectacular. Pompey goalkeeper David James was not too far off of his line, but Rooney still managed to score with a sublime chip from 20-yards. It was similar to an effort he had previously scored against Middlesbrough and proved to be the difference as Kanu scored a last-gasp consolation.
NEWCASTLE — APRIL 24, 2005
Darren Ambrose had silenced Old Trafford by putting Newcastle ahead before Rooney scored a sumptuous volley from well outside the area to level the game. The goal was all the more memorable as Rooney was arguing with referee Neale Barry as the ball dropped for him to hammer past Shay Given. Wes Brown scored the goal to give United a 2-1 win, but the game will always be remembered for a stunning strike from Rooney. Watch the goal in the second video below.
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