1998 - Overmars Does The Business

The build-up to Sunday’s eagerly awaited clash continues with a look back to another double-winning season for the Gunners. The trip to Old Trafford in 1998 was a pivotal moment as Arsenal reeled in the reigning champions on their way to a first Premier League title.

From the beginning the Gunners most prominent forward was Marc Overmars, who tormented Curtis throughout. The Dutch winger was denied a penalty when the young defender clipped his standing foot , the best of three chances for Overmars in the first-half.

Ray Parlour's rising drive went close to breaking the deadlock, whilst at the other end Alex Manninger produced a fine save to deny former Gunner, Andy Cole.

The second –half followed the pattern of the first. Overmars narrowly missed the target from a superb chip by Manu Petit, but on eighty minutes he finally made the breakthrough, heading a flick from Anelka into his stride and finally getting the better of Schmeichel in the United goal.

Anelka and Garde also went close as Arsenal finished much the stronger, the only real scare provided by a Beckham free-kick which Manninger dealt with comfortably.

The final whistle brought with it scenes of joy from the travelling Gooners. Mathematically the title may have been claimed on the final day against Everton, but few doubt the significance of this particular result.

In his first full season Arsene Wenger had set out his stall. In the era that has followed Arsenal and United have traded titles, cups, and much more. In the autumn of their rivalry Wenger and Fergie appear to be mellowing in their attitude to each other. That may be the result of Chelsea’s rouble-funded intrusion into their dominance, but it will be fascinating to see the giants of the last decade locking horns again on Sunday.