10.04.2007
First match: 1:2
Carrick remains cool over Roma visit
Manchester United FC midfielder Michael Carrick is convinced that Wayne Rooney's away goal at the Stadio Olimpico has given them an excellent chance to progress to the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
Bouncing back
AS Roma take a 2-1 lead to Old Trafford on Tuesday for the second leg of the quarter-final tie, but Carrick insists the ability of Sir Alex Ferguson's side to overcome setbacks gives them the edge. They gave the perfect example of that in the Italian capital when they drew level following the dismissal of Paul Scholes. Carrick said: "The goal before half-time was a blow but we bounced back as we have done all season and I'm sure we'll do it again. Once you go behind it's vital [to score] and it does give you a better opportunity."
Great occasion
The Old Trafford crowd will also have a part to play and the 25-year-old thinks the fans can spur the Red Devils on to victory. "It's going to be a great occasion at Old Trafford," said Carrick. "It'll be bouncing - they'll get behind us and we're really looking forward to it. Come Tuesday we'll be ready and we've given ourselves a great chance. The situation is we have to score and we're confident we can do that. We're always confident."
Former finalists
Should United overturn their first-leg deficit, the 1999 winners will reach the semi-finals of the competition for the first time since the 2001/02 season. Roma will be desperate to progress in the hope of emulating their class of 1984 who went to the final of Europe's premier club competition – only to be beaten on penalties by another English side, Liverpool FC.
