The home side monopolised the game but failed to turn their
dominance into goals, yet the United boss, speaking to Sky
Sports after the game, admitted he was pleased with his side’s
performance.
“We dominated the game possession-wise. We played some
great football at times and I’m pleased with that,” said the Scot
before adding, “We persevered with our football, which is not easy
with some young players in the team. We kept our patience, kept our
discipline.”
However, the champions were poor in front of goal, although
Ferguson revealed his side’s woeful finishing was not a concern. He
said: “We missed a lot of chances again. That will turn. We’ll
start taking these chance, it’s one area we are letting ourselves
down at the moment.”
With the scoreline goalless United sent on youngster Danny
Welbeck for Rodrigo Possebon and his presence helped turned the tie
in the home side’s favour, as his manager acknowledged: “Danny
changed the game for us a bit. Something different for them to
handle because he’s got that height and athleticism and he can run
at them. He’s done very well for us once he’s come on.”
United’s pressure eventually told and they were awarded a
penalty after Peter Ramage brought down Welbeck in the area.
Tevez converted from the spot and Ferguson was quick to praise his
striker. He said: “He worked his socks off, he was terrific
tonight, I thought he was our star man tonight, he was absolutely
brilliant.”
The goal saved the champions the embarrassment of extra time
against a Championship side and ensured they progressed safely into
the quarterfinals of the competition.
After making eight changes to his starting line up for the game,
Ferguson also revealed he would continue to use his youngsters in
the next round. He concluded: “It’ll be the same squad as the next
game. Those who need a game will get a game.”