With United on a high after beating Fulham and almost regaining the lead on top of the Premier League... Confidence oozed throughout the stadium and the United players were sure of getting the results they needed.
Once again Lyon proved to be worthy opponents for the Red Devils.
As we saw in the first leg how United were mostly second best, Fergie decided to make a few changes into the squad. The inclusion of Derren Fletcher surprised most people, but the United manager had faith in his fellow country man and knew what he was capable of.
Fletcher was solid in the match against Roma last season where he practically single-handedly kept Totti quiet for the whole match. In this match, he was tasked to do the same against Juninho instead while Ferdinand and Vidic handled Benzema.
The match started off with United getting most of the ball but barely testing the Lyon goal as they try to get a goal. The french international goal keeper, Coupet (from Lyon) barely had much to do as his defence was rock solid in blocking out shots by the United stars.
True United was slacking the enthusiasm shown in the Arsenal game, but nevetheless, they tried to do their jobs well. When it looked like it was going to be scoreless before the half, the moment of magic came when a scramble in the penalty box, led Ronaldo to score his 30th goal of the season.
The second half saw Unite taking it easy as they barely attacked. It was tense as they kept losing the ball cheaply and yes, the fans were eager to see another goal.
Sadly, no other goals were scored as Lyon pressed on till the end.. It was a poor match.. But it was job done for the players. Fergie has already voiced out his opinion on the lack of goals but he can only do this much as it all depends on the players.
Regarding Ronaldo's man of the match award, I would say that I would have given it to Derren Fletcher instead for his excellent display of attacking and defending all together! A loyal player to the United cause, Fergie suggests that he should be a model player for all the youths in the squad!
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