Managers Bryan Robson and Ian Rush led their teams as the two most decorated clubs in English football prepared to face their historic rivals once again. But despite the score, the clubs’ respective charities came out on top as they will each receive funds to help support their community work across North-West England.
Manchester United team captain Denis Irwin was joined by fellow former Reds including Dwight Yorke, Raimond van der Gouw, Ronny Johnsen, Quinton Fortune, Lee Martin, Karel Poborsky and Swedish winger Jesper Blomqvist, who relished scoring in his home city:
“It feels fantastic, and to be home here in Stockholm makes it even more special,” said the Swedish winger. “To raise money for the Foundations is a big part of why we are doing this; I’ve seen myself last year doing some work with the Foundation at their Street Reds projects in Manchester so I know it’s for a great cause.”
With Robbie Fowler as captain, the Liverpool side included Jason McAteer, Didi Hamann, Phil Babb, Stephane Henchoz, Luis Garcia, Vladimir Smicer, Patrik Berger, Jerzy Dudek and David Thompson.
Vladimir Smicer and David Thompson both netted goals for the Reds, but it wasn’t enough to emerge victorious with Dwight Yorke, Karel Poborsky, Bojan Djordjic and Jesper Blomqvist all putting away strikes that saw United walk away with the win.
Ian Rush, Liverpool FC Legends Team Manager said: “It was an honour to bring the legends team to Sweden. The game was competitive, you never want to lose against Manchester United, but we couldn't quite get the result. Credit to United, they played well and tested the lads throughout. It was a great occasion, played in a fantastic stadium and both sets of fans created a good atmosphere on the night”.
United manager Bryan Robson agreed, “It was a good competitive game, it was entertaining, there were some great goals and hopefully the fans enjoyed it because that’s what it’s all about. It’s very important for the Foundation; we’ve got some great projects for children and the players try to support as much as we can."
Proceeds will be going to Manchester United Foundation and the Liverpool FC Foundation to help support the two charities community projects.