Kevin Pilkington gives 7Cantonas.com his thoughts on the crucial first leg win at Stamford Bridge.
Yolkie : We were talking just the other day about Rooney’s return to form. He made a great impression tonight as well with a well taken goal. What did you make of his performance?
Kevin : His performance was excellent last night! As I said after the West Ham game, he’s back to where he was a year ago. I thought he took his goal very well and his all round play was top draw. Just a shame he will miss the semi against City!
Yolkie : It seemed like a disciplined second half after a really good first half – Giggs for me was the big influence through the game. Who was your man of the match?
Kevin : I thought Carrick was excellent and his pass for Rooney’s goal was inch perfect. He has had a lot of stick recently but he showed what a good player he is but I would give it to Rio. To be out for that long then come straight in and put that sort of display in was brilliant! Looked like he had never been away.
Yolkie : We’ve spoken so much about Smalling being brilliant, but as you said Rio was brilliant. He came back and was as if he’d never been away.. despite how good Smalling has been, do you think Rio’s experience will count for a lot?
Kevin : Smalling has been outstanding and has got a massive future ahead but having Rio back is a massive bonus for United. Rio will give the whole team confidence going in to the last few games.
Yolkie : What did you make of Evra’s challenge late on? Firstly, was it a penalty, and secondly, do you agree as a pro that “these things even themselves out’?
Kevin : Yes it was a penalty but you get these decisions in football. You often get a run of decisions going against you then you find it turns around. I’m sure Chelsea have been on the receiving end of some favourable decisions.
Yolkie : How do you feel going into the second leg?
Kevin : Still all to play for. Having the away goal is a massive bonus but Chelsea are a very good team so United will have to be on top of their game. I think it will be a draw next week personally!
