Goal of the Day: Giggsy's curler v Barnsley
Our new 'Goal of the Day' series continues with a superb curling effort from the Welsh winger against Barnsley 22 years ago today...
Date: 25 October 1997, Old Trafford, Premier League
Background: Ryan Giggs is United’s record appearance-maker and the club’s most decorated player, as well as one of the greatest ever to grace the Old Trafford turf. The Cardiff-born winger was known for his explosive acceleration and ability to dribble past opponents with ease, which he showcased on this day 22 years ago against Barnsley.
The goal: United were in a rampant mood against the Tykes, bagging two goals from Andy Cole in the first 20 minutes to make it 2-0, before Ryan Giggs added a third shortly before half-time. Paul Scholes’ lofted pass from a quickly taken free-kick found Giggs in plenty of space on the left wing. The Welshman raced forward with two Barnsley players hesitant to close him down, allowing Giggs to cut inside onto his right foot and curl the ball effortlessly into the back of the net past the outstretched arm of David Watson.
What happened next: Cole, Scholes and Karel Poborsky all added to United’s lead, as well as Giggs grabbing his second of the afternoon to seal a ruthless 7-0 win which sent the Reds to the top of the Premier League ahead of Arsenal.
Reaction: “It was especially sweet to get that one with my right foot,” laughed the winger, who would ultimately end his epic career with 21 goals netted from his less-favoured side – 12 percent of his overall haul.
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