VIEW FROM THE PRESS BOX

The Independent

Manchester United were hit by a minor earthquake yesterday during their defeat to Kashima Antlers, Japan's leading team, who ended United's 100 per cent pre-season record with an entertaining 2-1 victory in Tokyo yesterday. In their toughest test of the Far East tour so far, United were once again guilty of missing numerous chances and were beaten by two goals from the Antlers midfielder Masashi Motoyama.

Midway through the first half a tremor, thought to measure 3.0 on the Richter scale, hit the Tokyo area. Play continued and the players seemed unaware, although there was an audible reaction from the sizeable crowd in the national stadium, the venue for the 1964 Olympics.

United missed several glaring chances and their continued profligacy means that neither Ruud van Nistelrooy, Wayne Rooney nor Louis Saha has scored in the three tour games so far. Van Nistelrooy's frustration was clear as he became involved in an altercation with team-mate Rio Ferdinand after the final whistle.

United introduced Rooney, Alan Smith and Mikaël Silvestre after half time. As United pressed, the Brazilian Kleberson, who will leave Old Trafford if a satisfactory offer is received, came close after 54 minutes.

Rooney hit a fierce effort wide on the hour and Cristiano Ronaldo, the game's liveliest player, had a curling effort saved. United dominated, their best chance coming through Park Ji-Sung, Ronaldo's replacement, in the 83rd minute. Put clear on the edge of the six-yard box, the South Korean scooped the ball high over the bar.

Park was withdrawn two minutes later with blood pouring from his face after a gash to the head. Saha and Van Nistelrooy also missed late chances. "Credit to them - two great goals," said Giggs. "We had our chances in the second half."