Matty Makes Flying Start



MATTY Etherington's mazy run with not even a minute on the clock was the catalyst for Marlon Harewood's early goal, which stunned Manchester United on Sunday.

And Matty admitted that the blistering start even took him by surprise.

"I just remember getting the ball and looking up to see Marlon making his run," explained the 24-year-old winger, who had a trial with United as a youngster.

"He had a little bit of space around him and I just thought that if I can get it to him quickly there will be a chance.
 
"It was a great finish from Marlon, because although he made the run at the right time, he had to make sure he hit it right and firs-time before their defenders closed in on him.
 
"We were all pleased for him to score. He gets, as most strikers do, a bit of stick when he doesn't score for a while, but he's always confident and can always be relied on in that sort of situation."
 
Naturally, Matty was disappointed to see United storm back in the second-half, particularly as the former Spurs midfielder thought Hammers had enjoyed the better of the opening 45 minutes.

He said: "It was disappointing to lose after doing so well in the first-half and getting the early goal. But they played really well in the second-half and probably deserved it in the end.They're a top side with top players and it showed as the game wore on.
 
"We got off to a flyer with the goal and it would have been nice to come out of the game with something points wise, but it wasn't to be. They came back at us and once the second goal had gone in it was difficult for us."
 
However, Hammers certainly coaxed the best out of Sir Alex Ferguson's side, and Matty believes that is something which will encourage Alan Pardew and his team.
 
"They had to be at their best to beat us to beat us and we can take a lot from that," he added.
 
"Because of everything that surrounded the game it was a great occasion for all the fans, and people watching on TV. The match certainly didn't disappoint them either.

"For us now we must take these positives into our next game, away at Birmingham next week. It's another tough one, but we're playing well and it's a game we can look to win."