By Robert Morris
Manchester United secured top spot in Group C thanks to Anderson who scored his first ever goal at Old Trafford in a 1-1 draw with Valencia.
Prior to kick off, the talk was whether or not the Red Devils could be the first side ever to not concede a single goal in the group stages of the Champions League. Despite a record being on the cards, Sir Alex Ferguson decided to shuffle the pack and started youngster Ben Amos in goal instead of the veteran Edwin van der Sar.
Valencia, who had dominated the opening stages, broke the deadlock on the 32nd minute when Chori Dominguez intercepted a Michael Carrick pass and slipped in Pablo Hernandez, who fired through the legs of Amos.
The reds almost levelled in the 36th minute, Wayne Rooney cut inside before smashing a stunning effort against the crossbar. The Old Trafford faithful had to wait until the 63rd minute for an equaliser. Ji Sung Park tested the keeper from 20 yards but the keeper could only parry a rebound straight to Anderson who smashed home on the half volley.
The game ultimately dried up as both sides were happy with just a point to secure qualification. What Ferguson might be concerned about is that his side has not won for two games, and with a huge clash against Arsenal coming up next Monday, United must surely get back to winning ways.
