Surprisingly John O’Shea has given United the advantage heading into next weeks 2nd leg semi-final at the Emirates.
It only took United 2 minutes to create a scoring opportunity, when Fletcher’s cross was met by Rooney and his header was denied.
By the 16th minute it was clear that United’s attack was being led by Tevez. As he played a ball wide to O’Shea and followed up the one-two with a shot which was denied by Almunia for a corner. The corner that lead to the O’Shea’s goal. As Arsenal got caught chasing the ball, O’Shea was left alone in the back and put it away with no problem.
12 minutes later Tevez supplied Ronaldo with a stupendous ball, which Ronaldo headed directly into the hands of Almunia.
After the first half, it was all United. Arsenal had trouble advancing and creating any chances.
The second half didn’t change much. It was all United. Arsenal were extremely static, they would pass and stay in the same area.
There was a spark of brilliance from Ronaldo in the 69th minute when the Portuguese winger had a go from 30 yards out which caught Almunia off his line and struck the crossbar. If Ronaldo was half a yard back it’s a goal!
I was disappointed Sir Alex took off Tevez, I honestly feel Ronaldo should have come off before Tevez. He spent 40 percent of his time on the ground,
It’s as if Ronaldo and Drogba are in competition to see who can spend more time on the ground during a match.
Giggs came on to make his 800th appearance and was convinced he scored the 2nd goal in the 78th minute, only to have it denied because he was slightly offside.
Rio Ferdinand picked up a knock, but no word on how serious it may be. He was rushed to the hospital immediately following the match.
United are definitely in the driver’s seat heading into the second leg next week, although United have yet to win at the Emirates.
Tags: Arsenal, Giggs, Manchester United, O'Shea, Ronaldo
