I’ve always enjoyed watching Alan Smith play football. The former Leeds striker plays with a ferocity and commitment to the cause that is unparalleled in professional football. However, what’s even better than watching Alan Smith bang in a last-gasp, injury-time goal? It’s watching Alan Smith notch a point-saving goal in the red shirt of Manchester United.

Even if Sir Alex will admit that the long ball into the Blackburn penalty area had deflected off of Lous Saha’s hand, it’s hard to take any shine off of Smith’s resounding finish. The thought of him partnering Ruud van Nistlerooy in attack is enough to raise any United fan’s spirits.

Honours to Both Sides

Full credit to Blackburn, Graeme Souness’ charges played a tight and effective match that nearly gained them a full three points. Blackburn keeper Brad Friedel was undoubtably the man of the match on this matchday and journeyman striker Paul Dickov, noted more for his lung-busting effort than for his technical ability, tallied from an excellent turn and shot on the 16th minute. In fact, going into the latter stage of the second half, Manchester United’s domination of the possession and man-advantage (Lorenzo Amoruso was sent off on the 71st minute for a second yellow) seemed destined to fruitlessness.

But United kept attacking. Sir Alex threw on Liam Miller and David Bellion in addition to Louis Saha (subbed on at half-time to replace the largely ineffectual Kleberson) and kept pushing for the draw. It’s easy to forget that for all their recent hiccups in form, Manchester United are still capable of refusing to surrender a result. It’s why Alan Smith is a such a firecracker to have in your football club: players with his determination help you realize the level of determination that sets Premiership contenders apart from their peers.

Wait for September

Yes, it’s only one point towards the league table, however United have got to be uplifited by Smith’s dramatic leveller. Louis Saha returned to the line-up and Cristiano Ronaldo is in devastating form despite his prior Olympic commitments. Now, the only remaining absences are Rio Ferdinand and Ruud van Nistlerooy, both of whom should return in September. The club probably does not require the services of Wayne Rooney, but I doubt any United fan will complain about adding the England Striker to Sir Alex’s offensive war chest.