Marcus Rashford's superb free-kick gave Manchester United
control of their Europa League semi-final against Celta Vigo.
The 19-year-old striker's curling effort not only gave
United the lead, but also a precious away goal going into next Thursday's
second leg at Old Trafford.
With United outside the Premier League's top four - a point
behind Manchester City and four off third-placed Liverpool - the Europa League
perhaps represents their best chance of earning a place in next season's
Champions League.
They looked to have spurned their best chances in northern
Spain - three times they were denied in the first half by home goalkeeper
Sergio Alvarez.
As Vigo improved, United's wastefulness seemed increasingly
important, only for Rashford to produce the sort of quality needed to beat the
excellent Alvarez.
Returning home with a lead, Jose Mourinho's side will be
strong favourites to progress to face Ajax or Lyon in Stockholm on 24 May in
the final of a competition they have never won.
(BBC)
