2006-07 is one of my favorite seasons, second only to 98-99. Manchester United were written off by majority when Ruud Van Nistelrooy left and Chelsea spent big. But, a young United side played some sensational Football that season. Rooney and Ronaldo stepped up big time. It was great to watch. But, one night left me heartbroken.
Manchester United stormed into the Champions League Semifinals by crushing Roma 7-1. Next up were AC Milan. The game at Old Trafford was one of the best I have ever seen. United, playing without three of the four first choice defenders, were up against Milan having Kaka in full form. But, the man who stole the show was Wayne Rooney who hit a thunderous shot in the dying minutes to win the game for United. I couldn't wait for the away leg. But, United were fighting on three fronts while Milan were alive in only one competition. The league game at Goodison Park just before the second leg was another epic battle. United came from 2-0 down to win 4-2 and effectively clinched the title. But, Milan rested their whole first team that weekend. An exhausted United side were battered by AC Milan. They played great Football that night. That night was the biggest disappointment of an amazing season.
The paths of two clubs crossed again this season. I was really happy with the draw but there was a fear that it may all come down crashing again. It certainly looked that way when Ronaldinho scored an early goal for Milan. United were gifting possession to Milan. They could have been out of sight if Milan had taken their chances. The way United started was reminiscent of the way they did three years ago. Young Rafael and Evans seemed to be intimidated by the atmosphere of San Siro just like Rooney and Ronaldo were, three years ago. But, this time luck was on United's side. AC Milan wasted a host of chances in the first half hour and United made them pay. Paul Scholes scored a fortuitous equalizer and it was all United after that. Wayne Rooney proved why he is one of the most feared strikers in Europe at the moment. His movement was fantastic. He headed two goals in quick succession to take the tie seemingly beyond AC Milan.
But, as I have learnt over the years, Man United don't do things the easy way. A late Milan goal brought the game back to life. It seems to be a miracle now that Milan didn't score more. In the end a sensational 3-2 win for United looks satisfying. But, Milan were there for the taking at 3-1 and United let them off the hook.
United will have to retain possession better at Old Trafford. Vidic's return may prove crucial. Also, Giggsy might return just in time for the game. Although, United are firm favorites now but its not over yet. Don't count your chickens before they are hatched, is what a wise man will say. Anyways, its time to revel in glory after the disappointment suffered three years ago. I am loving it.
Manchester United stormed into the Champions League Semifinals by crushing Roma 7-1. Next up were AC Milan. The game at Old Trafford was one of the best I have ever seen. United, playing without three of the four first choice defenders, were up against Milan having Kaka in full form. But, the man who stole the show was Wayne Rooney who hit a thunderous shot in the dying minutes to win the game for United. I couldn't wait for the away leg. But, United were fighting on three fronts while Milan were alive in only one competition. The league game at Goodison Park just before the second leg was another epic battle. United came from 2-0 down to win 4-2 and effectively clinched the title. But, Milan rested their whole first team that weekend. An exhausted United side were battered by AC Milan. They played great Football that night. That night was the biggest disappointment of an amazing season.
The paths of two clubs crossed again this season. I was really happy with the draw but there was a fear that it may all come down crashing again. It certainly looked that way when Ronaldinho scored an early goal for Milan. United were gifting possession to Milan. They could have been out of sight if Milan had taken their chances. The way United started was reminiscent of the way they did three years ago. Young Rafael and Evans seemed to be intimidated by the atmosphere of San Siro just like Rooney and Ronaldo were, three years ago. But, this time luck was on United's side. AC Milan wasted a host of chances in the first half hour and United made them pay. Paul Scholes scored a fortuitous equalizer and it was all United after that. Wayne Rooney proved why he is one of the most feared strikers in Europe at the moment. His movement was fantastic. He headed two goals in quick succession to take the tie seemingly beyond AC Milan.
But, as I have learnt over the years, Man United don't do things the easy way. A late Milan goal brought the game back to life. It seems to be a miracle now that Milan didn't score more. In the end a sensational 3-2 win for United looks satisfying. But, Milan were there for the taking at 3-1 and United let them off the hook.
United will have to retain possession better at Old Trafford. Vidic's return may prove crucial. Also, Giggsy might return just in time for the game. Although, United are firm favorites now but its not over yet. Don't count your chickens before they are hatched, is what a wise man will say. Anyways, its time to revel in glory after the disappointment suffered three years ago. I am loving it.
