Unless you support the team that has conceded it, own goals are rarely anything other than amusing.
We all have our favourite, which for some is the one scored by Arsenal defender Lauren 11 years ago today away at Manchester City.
Both sides were unbeaten in their first three fixtures of the new season going into this clash at the City of Manchester Stadium, but, despite the fact that they were the hosts, City were regarded as the underdogs to a formidable Arsenal starting lineup that would go on to not lose a single game all term.
However, City were given a helping hand in just the 10th minute. Winger Trevor Sinclair went in pursuit of Michael Tarnat's long punt forward, but it seemed that even facing his own goal, full-back Lauren had the situation under control.
Yet, his first touch was less than convincing and as Sinclair closed in, the Cameroon international seemed to panic, before going on to lose his balance and then see his attempted clearance beat his own bemused goalkeeper Jens Lehmann and roll into the bottom corner of the Arsenal net.
Lauren claimed that he had been nudged by Sinclair, but referee Graham Poll waved away that appeal.
The hosts dominated the remainder of the first half, but they were unable to extend their advantage any further, which would ultimately prove costly after the restart.
In the 49th minute, hesitation from City centre-back Sylvain Distin let in Ashley Cole, who picked out Sylvain Wiltord with a low cross and the French striker was able to slide his shot beyond the reach of former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman.
Then, 18 minutes from time, Seaman would play a big role in helping his old club to claim all three points. The veteran stopper was less than convincing when he dived at the feet of Robert Pires and when the ball broke free, Freddie Ljungberg was on hand to poke in from close range.
Man City: Seaman; Jihai, Sommeil, Distin, Tarnat; Wright-Phillips (Berkovic), Bosvelt [Fowler], Barton, Sinclair; Sibierski [Tiatto], Anelka
Arsenal: Lehmann; Lauren, Keown, Toure, Cole; Ljungberg [Parlour], Vieira, Silva, Pires [Edu]; Henry, Wiltord [Bergkamp]
Liam Apicella
