Football
Reuters 17y

UPDATE 1-Soccer-Chopra strikes late as Sunderland beat Spurs

(adds quotes, details)

LONDON, Aug 11 - New signing Michael Chopra scored
a dramatic winner in the fourth minute of stoppage-time as
promoted Sunderland beat Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 in Saturday's
opening match of the Premier League season.

Chopra, who joined Roy Keane's side in July from Cardiff
City, came off the substitutes' bench to rifle home a low shot
from inside the penalty area at the Stadium of Light.

His side had looked destined to settle for a point after
creating few chances but working hard to keep a strong Spurs
line-up in check. Spurs manager Martin Jol threw on new 16.5
million pounds ($33.37 million) forward Darren Bent after the
break in a vain attempt to secure victory.

Chopra, the second division's second-highest scorer last
season, collected a high cross from Ross Wallace and had time to
tee up his shot before finding the bottom right-hand corner.

Keane, who steered Sunderland from the relegation zone to
second division title after taking over last season, told Sky
Sports News: "I thought the best team won.

"Another late goal - we had plenty of them last season and
hopefully there are more to come...it's a happy dressing room in
there."

Premier League action was continuing later on Saturday, with
Liverpool at Aston Villa among the fixtures, while champions
Manchester United, FA Cup holders Chelsea and Arsenal all play
on Sunday.

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