Ferguson hails 'one of our best displays'

In a one-sided Champions League semi-final the Schalke goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, resisted almost unremitting pressure from Ferguson's team before United finally established a position of command with two goals in the space of three minutes midway through the second half.

Wayne Rooney, exceptional in a slick and controlled team performance, set up Ryan Giggs to slide his shot past Neuer for the opening goal. Then Javier Hern‡ndez helped on Antonio Valencia's cross for Rooney to give United what looks like an unassailable lead before the second leg next Wednesday at Old Trafford, where they are unbeaten all season.