O'Shea strike gives Reds slender European lead

Manchester United will take a slim one-goal advantage to Ashburton Grove for next week's European Cup second-leg. The Red Devils bossed Tuesday evening's first-leg for long periods but have to settle for a slim lead after John O'Shea's first-half strike settled the contest. Cristiano Ronaldo twice went very close to finding the net.

O'Shea put in a superb evening's work and broke the deadlock after seventeen minutes as slack Arsenal marking allowed the Irishman to latch onto a low Michael Carrick cross and rifle the ball into the top of the net.

The full-back's opener followed an early period of dominance from the European champions. Sir Alex Ferguson had expressed his fears pre-match of conceding a crucial away goal - but United's emphasis was all on attack as the game got underway.

After O'Shea's effort, United had plenty of chances to build on their lead; particularly before the half-time break - but Gooners stopper Manuel Almunia was at times inspired.

His best save denied a Cristiano Ronaldo header from only yards out; whilst the Portuguese winger saw his 30-yard long range effort rattle the crossbar after the interval. Ryan Giggs, introduced from the bench as was Dimitar Berbatov (for Carlos Tevez) and Jonny Evans (for the injured Rio Ferdinand), had a goal ruled out for offside.

Fergie will be pleased with his side's performance but surely frustrated that United couldn't build on their one-goal advantage. The Reds controlled the game for long periods despite Arsenal's superb recent form; but Arsene Wenger will probably leave the North West with a wry smile knowing it could have been much worse for his side.

Roll on the second-leg. Expect another nervous evening.

Full Time - Manchester United 1-0 Arsenal
Attendance - 74,733