So, what makes the night so special and memorable for me? Firstly, United had most of
the first team players rested; Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra,
Ryan Giggs, Javier Hernandez- all these players were not present in the starting line-up. It’s
hard and scary to think of your team playing in the semi-final of UCL without so many key
players, isn’t it? But look what Fergie’s boys pulled out! This made me, like all other fans, so
proud! Clearly Manchester United demonstrated their strength in Europe that night!
Secondly, a 4-1 win in the semi-final of Champions League is not a piece of cake. Yes,
Schalke were playing in the semis for the first time, but they had performed really well that
season; in fact, they eliminated Internazionale in the quarters. But above all stood the fact
that it was the first team I saw my beloved team make it to the final of the UEFA Champions
League! Yes, I was only a student of eighth grade when United made it to the final in 2009
and so watching late night games was tough for me. But in 2011 I didn’t miss a single late
night match and I was lucky enough to see my team dominate in the crucial stages. I could
hardly control my delight! It’s an everlasting memory to me.
I am quite sure I will see United play like paragons in the European competition pretty soon
and more nights like these will be gifted to United fans all over the world. After all, these
cherish able memories are priceless. Hopefully, David Moyes’ men will continue the domination that Fergie’s boys had shown in the recent years not only in the Premier League but in
all competitions. Glory Glory Man United.
** The writer is an Official Member of Manchester United Football Club.
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