Sunny skies for United match

2008-07-14 12:10

Cape Town - Provided the weatherman's predictions are correct, Cape Town soccer fans can expect perfect conditions at Newlands Stadium on Saturday when English giants Manchester United and Kaizer Chiefs clash in their first Vodacom Challenge match.

The long-range forecast is a cloudless day with a maximum of 18 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 12 degrees Celsius.

The Reds, who had their first pre-season match against Scotland's Aberdeen at the weekend, are set to jet into Cape Town on Friday.

Local fans there to greet the 2008 European champions will see Sir Alex Ferguson's squad troop out in their new off-the-pitch gear, natty two-button, slim navy suits.

The suits have been specially designed by Sir Paul Smith, a keen Man U follower, and feature red panels and striped piping. The club crest has been created from gold and silver thread and is sewn onto the top pocket of the blazer.

Sir Paul has also incorporated a colourful diagonal stripe into the team's red tie. A white shirt, belt (which features an imprint of the club crest on the tip) and dark brown brogues with a burnished finish complete the new look.

Sir Paul has also designed a simple black raincoat for the players, while striped fabric luggage has been provided for away trips.

They all did all right

Sir Alex Ferguson says he is satisfied with the team's 2-1 victory over their Scottish opponents at the weekend.

"They all did all right. There were no real great performances. You can't expect any great performances - that's the reason for pre-season games.

"The important thing is to get your fitness and also to come through without injury."

A first-half penalty from Michael Carrick and a Wayne Rooney header after the break gave the Reds a comfortable victory in Pittodrie.

A minute before half-time Rooney was brought down by Dons keeper Jamie Langfield inside the box, allowing the former Tottenham midfielder to slot home his first spot-kick since the Champions League final penalty shoot-out win over Chelsea in Moscow.

Rooney headed home number two from Darren Fletcher's cross in the 69th minute before going off to a standing ovation minutes later.

United fielded a strong side that included Rooney, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Scotland international Fletcher.

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