Fergie admits Milan superiority
No repeat of the 1999 Treble for Fergie
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Wednesday, 02, May 2007 11:00
Sir Alex Ferguson conceded that his team had been outplayed after they fell to a 3-0 defeat in their Champions League semi-final against AC Milan.
The result meant the Italians progressed 5-3 on aggregate and, in stark contrast to Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho yesterday evening, the Manchester United manager admitted the opposition deserved their place in the final.
"I think they got their goals very cheaply and you cannot do that at that level. I think they were better prepared physically, they were resting players and it can make a difference," he said.
"I don't think we lacked in a physical sense, but they were certainly sharper and quicker to the ball and pressed very well."
"In the 15 minutes after half-time we looked like we were getting some joy and momentum, maybe a half chance and a couple of shots blocked and we needed that goal to get some momentum.
"But in fairness we never looked as if we were going to score. I think we just have to give credit to them. They were well prepared and I think that made a difference."
Meanwhile Ferguson's opposite number Carlo Ancelotti admitted that although he would face another Premiership side in the final, Liverpool would be a different proposition to United.
"The final will be a fascinating challenge - Liverpool are not as good as Manchester United but they are harder physically," he said.
The final, a repeat of the 2005 competition's dramatic climax, will take place on May 23rd in Athens.