Manchester United concede late to draw 1-1 with Southampton

Manchester: Dejan Lovren grabbed a late equalizer for Southampton in a 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Saturday, adding to the champions' troubles in a lackluster start to their English title defense.

Robin van Persie put United ahead in the 26th minute, pouncing on a rebound after Wayne Rooney had a shot blocked.

But Southampton, one of the surprises of the league this season, troubled United throughout and claimed a deserved point when Lovren bundled in a corner from James Ward-Prowse in the 89th.

United slipped eight points behind early leader Arsenal in what is proving to be a tough start to life at Old Trafford for new manager David Moyes, whose team lost 2-1 to West Bromwich Albion in its last home league game.