Friedel flusters Man U as Villa forces 0-0 tie

LONDON (AP) — American goalkeeper Brad Friedel equaled the Premier League's consecutive appearance record Saturday, making another stellar performance for Aston Villa and frustrating defending champion Manchester United in a 0-0 draw.

Friedel, who joined Villa from Blackburn in the offseason, made his 166th straight appearance to equal David James' record.

The 37-year-old former star of the U.S. national team denied Cristiano Ronaldo's swerving drive in the 14th minute and Carlos Tevez before halftime. His looming presence led to Wayne Rooney volleying high and wide with just the goalie to beat in the best chance of the game.

"It's a team sport so my performance was just one part of that," Friedel said.