Wayne Rooney scored a match winning penalty on his first start since his contract saga. The all-British clash at Ibrox was hardly a classic, with both sides producing brave defensive displays and it was a late penalty that won it for the visitors with three minutes to go. The spot kick was awarded after Steven Naismith's high boot caught Fabio in the area and Rooney stepped up to send Allan McGregor the wrong way.
The 1-0 win continues Manchester United's 100 per cent in the group and the clean sheet was their fifth in as many games so far in the competition. Rangers' hopes of reaching the next round were handed the killer blow in Spain, where Valencia destroyed Bursaspor 6-1, in the group's other match to take their place alongside United in the knock-out stages. Although they were unable to upset the Champions League predictions and make the second round, they have at least booked a place in the Europa League.
Barring a 2-0 loss next week in Spain, United will go through as group winners and the Champions League betting tips indicate they will top the group.
The first half was a tight affair with few chances, Rooney going close for United and Kenny Miller's wrong decision to shoot rather than pass, going down as the half's only real chances. Rooney looked lively and was clearly eager to impress the travelling fans as well as his team-mates.
The second half was dominated by United, but the visitors failed to break Rangers shape and when they did they found an in-form McGregor waiting for them. The late penalty was perhaps a touch unfair on the hosts but all in all United controlled the majority of the 90 minutes.
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